Galaxy S26 Ultra could mark the comeback of variable aperture cameras on Samsung phones

Samsung was the first smartphone brand to introduce variable aperture cameras with the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ in 2018. It was retained by the flagships that came later but was dropped with the Galaxy S20 series. However, we could see variable aperture cameras make a comeback on Samsung phones next year with the Galaxy S26 series.

The word comes from tipster Ice Universe, who said Samsung is considering launching the Galaxy S26 Ultra with its primary camera having a variable aperture. However, it's unclear if Samsung will adopt the dual-aperture approach like it did for the S9 series or if it will do it like Xiaomi, which provided multiple aperture settings on the 14 Ultra.

Anyway, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn't launching before next year, so it's too early to say anything with certainty since the plans can always change. We'll have more clarity on whether or not the Galaxy S26 Ultra will come with a variable aperture as we inch closer to its launch.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Source (in Chinese)