Recent leaks suggest Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra will no longer include the 3× optical zoom camera that appeared in its predecessor. Current renders reportedly reveal a three-sensor rear camera system instead of the four found on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Among the missing elements: the 10-megapixel 3× lens that bridged the gap between wide-angle and periscope zoom.
Whereas previous S-series Ultra models provided both 3× and 5× optical zoom lenses, the S27 Ultra appears set to move directly from a standard 1× main shooter to a 5× telephoto module. Render comparisons show the camera island has been redesigned into a more spacious layout, with the LED flash relocated to the bottom. Components that used to sit beneath the flash—like the 3× lens—appear to be removed entirely.
Leaker sources point to a 50 MP 5× telephoto unit remaining in place, while the 3× 10 MP module is dropped. The main sensor is reportedly the ISOCELL HP6, similar to past designs made special for Samsung’s Ultra class. While renders have labeled parts like sensors, flash, and even a microphone hole, these are based on pre-release designs—with the caveat that final hardware could change.
No official confirmation has been made so far. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S27 Ultra in early 2027, at which point full specs will be revealed. Until then, all details remain speculative.
Why the 3× lens matters
The 3× optical zoom has long been a sweet spot for smartphone photography—providing better reach than wide-angle without the distortion or bulk associated with higher multipliers. Dropping it forces users to choose between a standard lens and heavier periscopes at higher zooms.
If Samsung follows through, this could indicate a shift in design priorities—simplifying camera arrays, improving other areas like low-light performance or structural durability, or reducing costs. On the flip side, it could disappoint photography-focused users who valued optical versatility over purely flagship optics.
Even before this leak, the Galaxy S27 Ultra had been generating anticipation due to rumored design changes—especially the new camera housing, battery improvements, and updated display tech. The loss of the 3× zoom adds to that mix of innovation and potential trade-offs.
Ultimately, whether losing the 3× lens is a misstep or a smart streamlining will depend on image quality from the remaining lenses and user experience. When Samsung officially reveals the Galaxy S27 Ultra, the resolution won’t just be in megapixels—it’ll be about balance. This lens configuration change could signal a larger trend: premium smartphones consolidating camera modules for efficiency, internal space, or cost control. A reduced lens count might simplify hardware, but it raises expectations around software compensation, sensor performance, and zoom quality. In early 2027, we’ll see whether Samsung delivers or falls short.
