Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra to Drop 3x Telephoto Lens Amid Cost-Cutting Measures

Samsung’s upcoming flagship, the Galaxy S27 Ultra, is set to undergo a significant change in its camera configuration. Traditionally, Samsung’s Ultra series has featured dual telephoto lenses, offering both 3x and 10x optical zoom capabilities. However, recent reports indicate that the Galaxy S27 Ultra will eliminate the 3x telephoto lens, leaving only a 5x telephoto shooter.

This adjustment marks a departure from previous models. For instance, the Galaxy S26 Ultra was equipped with a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide lens, a 50MP 5x telephoto lens, and a 10MP 3x telephoto lens. The removal of the 3x telephoto lens in the S27 Ultra suggests a strategic shift in Samsung’s approach to its camera systems.

The decision to streamline the camera setup is reportedly driven by cost-cutting measures. The ongoing impact of supply chain challenges has prompted Samsung to seek ways to reduce manufacturing expenses, and simplifying the camera array appears to be one such strategy.

In contrast, the Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to retain a 12MP 3x telephoto camera alongside its main and ultrawide lenses. The anticipated camera configurations for the Galaxy S27 series are as follows:

  • Galaxy S27: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto
  • Galaxy S27+: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto
  • Galaxy S27 Pro: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto (3x)
  • Galaxy S27 Ultra: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (5x)

Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S27 series in early 2027. This move to reduce the number of telephoto lenses may reflect a broader industry trend of balancing advanced features with cost efficiency. Consumers will be keen to see how this change impacts the overall photography experience on the Galaxy S27 Ultra.