Samsung has officially determined the specifications for the Galaxy S26 Ultra camera, along with finalizing supplier agreements, as disclosed in a recent report from South Korea. This development suggests that the Galaxy S26 Ultra may address the 5X telephoto zoom quality issues that plagued the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra models.
Samsung has partnered with MCNEX, a mobile camera solution provider based in South Korea, to supply the new 5X folded zoom camera. These advanced modules are engineered to enhance light reflection and increase focal length, functioning similarly to a prism and extending the zoom capabilities of the device. Furthermore, Samsung is exploring an innovative technology known as All Lenses on Prism (ALoP), which is designed to occupy less space within the phone while providing the same functionality as a traditional periscope camera. However, it remains uncertain if this technology will debut in their flagship devices this generation.
According to the report, the 5X zoom module for the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra was sourced from both Samsung Electro-Mechanics—one of Samsung's own camera module divisions—and China's Sunny Optics. Many reviewers have highlighted the subpar quality of the 5X zoom camera in these models, especially when compared to leading competitors from Chinese manufacturers.
The report also sheds light on the reasons behind Samsung's strategic shift. Industry insiders claim that Sunny Optics has faced ongoing quality issues over the past two years, which included instability within their supply chain. Consequently, MCNEX is anticipated to assume a portion of the volume previously supplied by Sunny Optics, although the exact volume remains unconfirmed. It appears that Samsung is attempting to deflect criticism towards the Chinese supplier regarding the unsatisfactory performance of the S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra models, which has been evident across all units sold thus far.
MCNEX previously provided a 3X telephoto zoom camera for the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra, which demonstrated better quality and stability than the 5X variant. Given MCNEX's reputation for delivering quality components, expectations are high for the Galaxy S26 Ultra's 5X zoom camera. Additionally, reports indicate that Samsung plans to enhance the 3X zoom camera's resolution by increasing its megapixel count from 10MP to 12MP. To diversify its supply chain, Samsung is also transitioning from MCNEX to PowerLogics and Patron for this camera module.
As for the main camera setup, the 200MP primary camera and 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera will likely carry over from the previous generation, although improvements in light intake for the primary sensor are expected, aiming for brighter images than before.
In related news, Samsung has reportedly initiated mass production of its Exynos 2600 chip using the cutting-edge 2nm process. This chip is expected to feature prominently in the standard model of the Galaxy S26. Reports suggest that the Exynos 2600 will be utilized in the Galaxy S26 Pro, while the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra may exclusively use the Snapdragon chip.
The Exynos 2600 project is significant for Samsung as it involves collaboration between its System LSI and Samsung Foundry divisions. The new processor, which is set to debut in the Galaxy S26, promises a 12% performance boost and a 25% enhancement in power efficiency compared to the current 3nm chip. Production of the first batch of wafers is expected to wrap up between late October and early November, marking a pivotal moment for Samsung in the competitive chip manufacturing landscape.
Additionally, Samsung has commenced the stable rollout of One UI 8, starting on September 15, 2025, for the Galaxy S25 series. This update, based on Android 16, is being distributed in phases and will eventually reach eligible devices throughout 2025. The Galaxy S24 series received its update on September 22, 2025, while the Galaxy S23 series began receiving updates on September 29, 2025. This rollout is a crucial aspect of Samsung's ongoing commitment to enhance user experience through timely software updates.
As Samsung continues to innovate with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, users can expect significant advancements in camera technology and processing power, reaffirming the brand's position in the competitive smartphone market. Stay tuned for more updates on the Galaxy S26 Ultra and its features as the launch approaches.
