Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rumors: Optimized 200MP camera, Qi2 and S-Pen unchanged
There have already been some pretty wild rumors about Samsung’s successor to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is expected to be unveiled in January 2026. For instance, there is some talk about the potential return of an ancient feature found in the Galaxy S9 series, namely a main camera with a variable aperture. In this context, it's also worth noting contrasting reports of two 200-megapixel sensors or two periscope telephoto cameras, neither of which sound particularly plausible, but even these far-fetched rumors can’t be ruled out at this point.
The same applies to the claims that X user @PandaFlashPro made in recent days. While his assertions do not sound unrealistic, it remains to be seen whether his sources are correct. For example, he emphasized that Samsung apparently plans to abandon the S-Pen in the Galaxy S flagship in the long term in order to have more space for other components. In a way, this would be the logical continuation since the S-Pen in Samsung’s Galaxy S25 was already downgraded and does no longer come with Bluetooth connectivity.
Still no magnets for Galaxy S26 Ultra
However, the leaker quickly pointed out that the Galaxy S26 Ultra is still expected to feature the S-Pen, which could also mean that the new phone will still lack the magnets needed for full Qi2 compatibility. Therefore, Samsung fans might need a corresponding case if they want to attach magnetic accessories to their handset.
Small camera upgrade but no big jump
Since the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Samsung has consistently used its own 200-megapixel ISOCELL HP2 sensor. At least every three years, the South Korean company introduces a sensor upgrade, which could be due again with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the leaker states that early prototypes don’t sport a larger sensor, the camera could receive some optimizations as well as new optics.
200MP sensor and Exynos chipset
To be more exact, two prototypes are reportedly equipped with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, which is the same size as the ISOCELL HP2 found in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. That said, the new sensor is said to offer improved pixel structures and enhanced optics, maybe with a variable aperture. The tipster further claims that Samsung has opted for a single 200-megapixel sensor, and not two. Last but not least, an Exynos processor might be back on the agenda for the Galaxy S26 series, but only in some regions and model variants.
Source(s)
Image: TT Technology
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