Samsung is reportedly evaluating a new 50MP 4x periscope telephoto camera for the Galaxy S27 Ultra, a change that could replace the 5x optical zoom module used by the current Ultra generation. The proposed camera would use a substantially larger 1/1.9-inch sensor, compared with the 1/2.52-inch sensor cited for the existing 5x telephoto unit.
The larger sensor could capture more light and potentially improve overall telephoto image quality while reducing artifacts. However, the move from 5x to 4x would alter Samsung's long-range zoom strategy, prioritizing sensor size over a higher native optical magnification.
The same report says Samsung may also remove the secondary 3x telephoto camera. If that configuration reaches production, the Galaxy S27 Ultra could pair a 200MP main camera with a single 50MP 4x telephoto camera and a 50MP ultrawide unit.
Samsung previously used a 4x telephoto camera on the Galaxy S20 Ultra, which had a 1/2.0-inch sensor. The company shifted to dual 10MP telephoto cameras with the Galaxy S21 Ultra and later adopted the current 5x approach. Five Galaxy S27 Ultra prototypes are said to be under evaluation, and Samsung could retain the 5x module if the newer camera does not meet its cost targets. The final camera configuration remains unconfirmed.
