After years of maintaining a quad-camera setup on the back, Samsung is preparing for a major change in its next flagship phone. According to multiple leaks that agree on the details, the Galaxy S27 Ultra will say goodbye to the 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom , a sensor that has been a staple of the Ultra series since the Galaxy S21. Instead, the device will feature a triple-lens system that promises a more refined and efficient photography experience.
The decision is not accidental. Rumors suggest that Samsung is looking to reduce manufacturing costs at a time when components like memory and storage are becoming more expensive. Furthermore, the 3x telephoto lens has always been criticized for its limited performance, especially in low light. The cropped 200-megapixel main sensor offers superior quality compared to the older sensor, so its removal doesn't represent a real loss for the user.
This is what the new triple camera of the Galaxy S27 Ultra will look like.
According to verified reports, the Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature a 200-megapixel main sensor, accompanied by a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. This triple-camera setup replaces the previous quad-camera system , which omitted the 3x telephoto lens. The new 5x telephoto lens promises sharper and more versatile shots, covering a more useful focal range for most situations.
The removal of the fourth sensor is not only a cost-saving measure, but also frees up physical space within the chassis. Although there is no official confirmation, some rumors suggest that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra could improve battery life by utilizing that internal space. However, what is clear is that Samsung has prioritized quality over quantity, opting for larger and more advanced sensors.
Why is the 3x zoom disappearing?
The 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom has been a recurring feature in the Ultra series since 2021, but its performance has become outdated. With the 200MP main sensor, simple digital cropping offers better results than the 3x optical zoom, especially in low light. Samsung has decided to do away with it to simplify the camera module and reduce costs, a strategy that also allows the Ultra to better differentiate itself from the new Pro model expected in the S27 series.
However, the Galaxy S27 Ultra opts for a more rational and efficient configuration. The removal of the 3x telephoto lens isn't a step backward, but a logical evolution that leverages the capabilities of the main sensor. With three high-resolution cameras, Samsung aims to offer a top-tier photographic experience without unnecessarily inflating the number of sensors. We'll have to wait for its official presentation to confirm all the details, but everything suggests that the change will be well-received by users seeking unadulterated quality.
