While the Galaxy S25 Ultra still shines hot, rumors about the Galaxy S26 Ultra are already making their way out. One major rumor hints at a significant change in the camera department, along with a few other bold speculations. If the leaks are accurate, Samsung may be taking a different approach to zoom capabilities this time.
Galaxy S26 Ultra could get a 200MP telephoto lens with ~4x zoom in triple-camera setup
According to tipster @Vhsss_God, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to feature a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide sensor, and potentially a 200MP telephoto lens with ~4x zoom. This setup would replace the S25 Ultraโs dual telephoto lenses (3x and 5x periscope) with a single high-resolution sensor. While this could enhance image quality and low-light zoom, it may also reduce optical zoom flexibility, especially at 10x or beyond.
Samsung might rely on in-sensor zoom, cropping into the 200MP telephoto sensor to achieve multiple zoom levels. However, without a dedicated periscope lens, long-range zoom may not be as sharp as before. Whether this is a strategic move or a downgrade will depend on how well Samsung optimizes the new sensor.
Additionally, the tipster claims that the Galaxy S26 Ultra prototype includes an S Pen with Bluetooth functionality. Given Samsungโs decision with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the chances of a Bluetooth-enabled S Pen making a comeback seem slim. Donโt get us wrong โ we were among those who called out Samsung from day one for removing Bluetooth from the S Pen. However, to be fair, the tipster does mention this is just a โprototype.โ
On top of that, a battery capacity upgrade could also be in the works for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This rumor has been around for a while, and now the tipster claims that a 5,500mAh capacity has already been achieved. Samsung may even be looking to squeeze in more battery capacity for the final version of the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
