What the leaks say
The Galaxy S27 Ultra may be getting a major camera overhaul, according to two separate reports. Android Central and Digital Trends both describe a potential shift away from Samsung's traditional dual-telephoto setup. A tipster identified by Digital Trends as @phonefuturist on X claims Samsung is evaluating a new "super telephoto" camera with 4x optical zoom and a 1/1.9-inch sensor for the device.
This would differ significantly from the current Galaxy S26 Ultra configuration, which pairs a 50MP 5x telephoto camera with a 1/2.5-inch sensor alongside a 10MP 3x shooter, as noted by Digital Trends. Android Central similarly reports that Samsung has traditionally offered a combination of 3x and 5x telephoto lenses on recent Ultra flagships. The Galaxy S27 Ultra could replace both with a single 4x f/1.9 camera, according to the reports.
The sensor debate
While dropping from 5x to 4x optical zoom might sound like a downgrade, both outlets point out that the larger sensor could be more important for image quality. Digital Trends explains that a bigger sensor can collect more light, potentially improving detail, reducing noise, and producing cleaner telephoto shots in low light. It could also give Samsung better image data to work with when digitally extending beyond the native 4x range.
The rumored 4x zoom level would match the native optical zoom of the iPhone 17 Pro, Android Central notes.
Cost and battery considerations
The decision may come down to cost. Digital Trends reports that Samsung is weighing the larger sensor against its bill of materials and the real-world improvement it delivers. If the difference isn't substantial, the Galaxy S27 Ultra could retain a 5x telephoto instead.
Samsung is also reportedly under pressure to keep prices in check as RAM and storage costs rise, according to Digital Trends. The same report claims Samsung is testing batteries between 5,700mAh and 6,000mAh, after sticking with 5,000mAh for years. Android Central also mentions a rumored larger battery.
A more unified camera strategy
Digital Trends reports that Samsung is testing a more unified camera strategy across its next lineup. The Galaxy S27 and S27+ could use the same 3x telephoto system as the S27 Pro, while sharing main and ultrawide hardware with the Ultra.
CAD renders and other features
Android Central references leaked CAD renders that appear to show room for only one telephoto camera inside the pill-shaped module on a redesigned camera plateau. The same leaker who claimed Samsung is working on self-healing display glass for the Galaxy S27 Ultra shared the telephoto information on X, according to Android Central. The outlet notes that the leaker has not revealed the megapixel count or other specifications of the new sensor.
Unconfirmed reports
Neither report indicates that Samsung has confirmed any of these features. Both outlets note that the Galaxy S27 Ultra is still about six months away and that Samsung may change the hardware before finalizing it. Digital Trends says Samsung may still be experimenting with several camera configurations.
Outlook
If the reports are accurate, the Galaxy S27 Ultra would represent a notable shift in Samsung's approach to zoom photography, trading multiple lenses for fewer but potentially more capable hardware. As with any pre-release leak, the final specification remains uncertain until Samsung announces the device.