The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra may be a modest upgrade over its predecessor, but it does introduce an improved ultrawide camera. Now, according to a reliable tipster, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could bring back a long-lost camera hardware feature from older Galaxy flagships.
Leaker Ice Universe recently claimed on Weibo that Samsung is considering reintroducing a variable aperture for the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s main camera. However, no additional details were provided.
Samsung pioneered variable aperture technology with the Galaxy S9 series in 2018. The feature remained available on the Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy S10 series, and Galaxy Note 10 lineup before being discontinued with the Galaxy S20 series. Samsung’s previous implementation allowed users to switch between two aperture sizes—f/1.5 and f/2.4—to adapt to different lighting conditions.
In recent years, smartphone brands like HUAWEI, HONOR, and Xiaomi have introduced more advanced variable aperture cameras, offering multiple aperture options instead of just two. It remains to be seen whether Samsung will return to its dual-aperture approach or opt for a more sophisticated variable system.
Conflict Over Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Rumors
If implemented, this feature would give users greater control over focus, light intake, and depth-of-field effects. A wide aperture combined with the S25 Ultra’s 200MP main camera could produce natural bokeh, better portraits, and improved low-light performance. On the other hand, switching to a narrower aperture would allow for greater depth of field, making it easier to keep everything in focus while controlling light exposure more effectively.
If these rumors hold, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could offer a major leap in mobile photography, bringing back one of Samsung’s most innovative camera technologies.
