Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Valuable Camera Upgrade

Forbes - Mar 17th, 2025

Samsung is reportedly considering reintroducing a variable aperture lens feature with its upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra model, a move that could give its flagship device a competitive edge in smartphone photography. Previously seen in the Galaxy S9 and S10 models, the variable aperture allows for adjusting the lens between two settings: f1.5 for more light intake with a narrower view, and f2.4 for a wider field but requiring more ambient light. This innovation, primarily found in select Huawei and Xiaomi devices, would distinguish the S26 Ultra in a market heavily focused on software enhancements like AI-driven photo processing.

The significance of this development lies in Samsung's potential to regain hardware-focused innovation in a space that has leaned heavily on software advancements over the last few years. As Google has led AI integration in photography, Samsung's Galaxy AI remains dominant, but a unique hardware feature like the variable aperture could refresh the market's interest and create a distinct differentiation between Samsung's models. This feature is currently speculated only for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, not for its vanilla or larger counterparts, hinting at a strategic move to elevate the Ultra model's market position and justify its premium pricing.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Variable Aperture Smartphone Photography Ai In Smartphones

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RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and relevant discussion about a potential new feature in Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, focusing on the reintroduction of a variable aperture camera. It is clear and accessible, making it easy for readers to follow the main points. However, the article lacks depth in terms of source quality and transparency, as it does not provide detailed citations or disclose the methodology behind its claims. The analysis could be more balanced by including diverse perspectives and potential drawbacks of the feature. While it has the potential to engage readers interested in technology, its impact is limited by the lack of detailed analysis and expert opinions. Overall, the article successfully highlights an interesting development in smartphone technology but could benefit from more comprehensive reporting and analysis.

Accuracy

The article presents a rumor about Samsung reintroducing a variable aperture feature in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which aligns with historical practices seen in the Galaxy S9 and S10 models. The claim about Samsung's previous dual-aperture system is accurate, as it did offer f/1.5 and f/2.4 settings. However, the article does not specify whether the new feature will be a true variable aperture or another dual-aperture system, which is a significant detail that requires clarification. The mention of competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi having variable aperture features is also accurate, adding credibility to the claim that Samsung could leverage this for marketing. However, the article could benefit from more precise information on the aperture range and its potential impact on photography, which are currently speculative.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the potential advantages of Samsung's rumored feature, with less emphasis on potential drawbacks or challenges. It highlights the marketing edge and innovation aspect but does not consider the technological challenges or consumer reception. The piece could be more balanced by discussing potential limitations of the variable aperture technology or the competitive landscape in more depth. Additionally, it could include perspectives from industry analysts or consumer opinions to provide a more rounded view.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language, making it easy to follow. It logically presents the potential reintroduction of the variable aperture feature and its implications for Samsung's market strategy. The tone is neutral and informative, which aids comprehension. However, the article could benefit from more detailed explanations of technical terms like 'variable aperture' to ensure understanding for readers unfamiliar with photography jargon.

Source quality

The article lacks direct citations or references to specific sources, which affects its credibility. It references a report by Asif Iqbal Shaik but does not provide a link or detailed source information. The lack of diverse sources or expert opinions limits the depth of the analysis. Including statements from Samsung or industry experts would enhance the reliability of the information presented.

Transparency

The article does not clearly disclose the basis for its claims or the methodology behind the information presented. It mentions a report but does not provide details on how the information was obtained or verified. Greater transparency about the sources and the process of gathering information would improve the article's credibility. Additionally, disclosing any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations would enhance transparency.