Samsung is preparing what could be its most controversial camera change in years for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. Leaked details suggest Samsung is ditching the long-criticized 3x telephoto lens entirely — and the internet seems surprisingly okay with it.
The End of an Era: 3x Telephoto Gets the Axe
According to renowned tipster Ice Universe, the Galaxy S27 Ultra carries a “100% probability” of dropping the 3x telephoto camera — a lens that has remained largely unchanged for six generations. Online reactions have been surprisingly positive, with many describing the 3x lens as the “middle child” of Samsung’s camera system that never quite justified its space.
Rather than relying on dedicated hardware for 3x zoom, Samsung is expected to leverage the 200MP main sensor’s cropping capability — similar to how some flagship competitors use large high-resolution sensors to simulate optical zoom.
200MP Main Camera: Variable Aperture Coming
The Galaxy S27 Ultra is rumored to feature an upgraded 200MP ISOCELL HP6 main sensor, potentially with variable aperture technology (assigned an “80% probability” by tipsters). Variable aperture would allow the lens to automatically adjust its opening based on lighting conditions — wider aperture for better low-light performance, narrower aperture for sharper daytime shots.
This technology would give Samsung more flexibility across diverse shooting scenarios, a first for the Galaxy Ultra lineup.
Triple Camera Setup: What We Know
The rumored triple-camera configuration includes:
- 200MP main camera with variable aperture (ISOCELL HP6, 1/1.3-inch sensor)
- 50MP ultrawide — likely debuting first on Galaxy Z Fold 8 before coming to S27 Ultra
- 50MP 5x telephoto with wider aperture than current generation
The front-facing camera is also expected to receive a significant upgrade, replacing the aging 12MP sensor.
Related: Compare with iPhone camera capabilities in our How to Change App Icons on iPhone (iOS 18 Complete Guide) for Apple camera tips.
Design Revolution: Horizontal Camera Bar
Perhaps just as striking as the internal changes, concept renders from Ice Universe suggest the S27 Ultra will adopt a horizontal pillbox-shaped camera bar — replacing the vertical island that has defined Samsung Ultra devices since the S21 Ultra. This would be the most significant design shift in six years.
The new horizontal layout would place the main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses in a single row, with the flash and sensors positioned to the right — reminiscent of classic compact cameras.
What This Means for Samsung Fans
Samsung appears to be doubling down on the cameras users actually rely on, rather than padding specifications. The strategy mirrors Apple’s approach with the iPhone 17, where fewer but more capable lenses deliver a more cohesive photography experience.
With a launch expected in early 2026, the Galaxy S27 Ultra is shaping up to be one of Samsung’s most focused camera upgrades in recent memory.
Common Questions About Galaxy S27 Ultra Camera
Will Galaxy S27 Ultra drop the 3x telephoto lens?
According to multiple tipsters including Ice Universe, the 3x telephoto lens is expected to be removed, with Samsung relying on the 200MP main sensor’s cropping for 3x zoom. This carries a “100% probability” according to reliable sources.
What camera sensor will Galaxy S27 Ultra use?
The S27 Ultra is rumored to feature a new 200MP ISOCELL HP6 sensor with variable aperture technology, a first for Samsung’s Ultra line.
When will Galaxy S27 Ultra launch?
Samsung typically launches Galaxy S series flagships in January or February. The Galaxy S27 Ultra is expected in early 2026.
Will Galaxy S27 Ultra have a new design?
Yes, the S27 Ultra is rumored to feature a horizontal camera bar design instead of the vertical island used since S21 Ultra — the biggest design change in six years.
