Galaxy S27 Ultra is expected to lose its 3× telephoto lens. Leakers dispute camera design

The Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra could lose its dedicated 3× telephoto lens. This is claimed by leaker Ice Universe, whose information is reported by Android Police. Leaked renders show only three rear cameras instead of the four known from recent Ultra models. However, there is a dispute over their exact placement. It is therefore necessary to separate two things: the report about the missing zoom and speculation about what the phone’s back will look like.

The 3× telephoto lens is expected to disappear, not optical zoom itself

According to the leak, the phone is expected to retain a telephoto lens with 5× optical zoom. For 2× magnification, a crop from the main sensor is still expected to be used. The report therefore does not describe the complete end of optical zoom on the Ultra model, but the removal of one specific camera between the main sensor and the longer telephoto lens.

I would focus on the 3× magnification when choosing a phone. How it would photograph in this range without a dedicated lens, we do not yet know. I would not consider a smaller number of cameras as a reason to dismiss the phone, nor as a change that can be automatically brushed aside. The decisive factor for me will be the result in the photos.

Android Police further states that the main camera is expected to use the ISOCELL HP6 sensor and the 5× telephoto lens is expected to retain an aperture of f/2.9. The same leak promises warmer color rendition compared to the Galaxy S26 Ultra and less noise in shadows. However, these are claims about upcoming image processing, not results from a photographic test.

They agree on a large module, but not on lens placement

GSMArena recalls speculation about a raised module extending almost across the entire width of the back. According to SamMobile, most leakers also agree on its basic arrangement: two circular openings and one elongated one. However, the similarity of the published versions ends here.

A new render by OnLeaks, described by Android Authority, places the telephoto lens in the upper part of the elongated opening. Below it are expected to be the microphone, auxiliary sensors, and at the very bottom, the LED flash. Ice Universe, according to the same outlet, argues that the camera belongs at the bottom and the flash above it. He refers to updated information from a source he describes as authoritative.

Missing opening in the cover does not yet determine focusing

Further speculation concerns laser autofocus. According to Android Authority, this was triggered by missing visible cutouts in early cases. OnLeaks points out that manufacturers of these cases also omitted the opening for the rear microphone.

Android Authority reminds that CAD renders often do not capture fine details of components flush with the phone’s body. Therefore, I would not infer the removal of laser focusing from the appearance of the case. However, its definitive presence is not yet clear.

Unveiling expected in early 2027

SamMobile expects the Galaxy S27 Ultra to premiere in January or February 2027. When and for how much it will arrive in the Czech Republic is not yet known. If you primarily consider zoom when choosing a mobile phone, I would wait for clarification of the photographic equipment and sample images specifically at 3× magnification, not for the definitive position of the flash.

Would you mind the removal of the 3× telephoto lens on the Galaxy S27 Ultra?

Sources: Android Police, Android Authority, SamMobile, GSMArena