This isn’t the first time the S26 Ultra has been the subject of speculation. Recent chatter, as pointed out in a recent piece about chaotic and messy Samsung strategies, and a fresh rumor, hints at a larger punch-hole design to accommodate the new lens.
The rumored change involves shifting from an 80-degree field of view to 85 degrees. On paper, that sounds insignificant. But in photographic terms, that slight tweak is akin to moving from a 22mm lens to something closer to 20mm on a full-frame camera.
To visualize the impact, imagine taking a selfie at arm’s length, then inching the phone a few inches closer. The wider lens captures more of the surroundings without requiring you to physically move back. This could be a boon for travel selfies or those spontaneous group shots where someone always gets cropped out.
However, wider isn’t always better. Lenses with focal lengths below 24mm can introduce perspective distortion, particularly when the subject is close to the camera – a common selfie scenario. This can lead to unflattering results, making features like noses appear larger and faces seem stretched.
It begs the question: is Samsung prioritizing inclusivity over individual flattery? Will the S26 Ultra’s selfies make everyone look like they’re peering out from a funhouse mirror?
No upgrade in Telephoto
Adding to the camera woes, it seems the rear 3x telephoto lens on the Galaxy S25 Ultra won’t see an upgrade, and might even be slightly degraded.
Rumors of a resolution bump for the 3x zoom were dismissed by reliable sources, suggesting that the new sensor will actually be smaller than the current one. This doesn’t feel like a step forward for the “Ultra” line.
“Not an Ultra move, Samsung.”
Ultimately, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s selfie camera upgrade presents a calculated risk. While a wider lens could enhance versatility, it also opens the door to distortion and potentially less flattering portraits. Whether Samsung can strike the right balance between inclusivity and image quality remains to be seen.
