Honor Magic 8 Ultra: A new 50-megapixel camera sensor by OmniVision expected in 2026
Honor is actively preparing to launch its upcoming generation of flagship devices. The Honor Magic 8 series, which includes the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro models, is expected to be officially unveiled in China by the end of this month. However, the range will be broader, featuring a Magic 8 Mini and a Magic 8 Ultra anticipated in the first half of 2026.
A leak from Digital Chat Station today reveals a key detail: the Magic 8 Ultra may debut a revolutionary new main camera sensor.
Honor Magic 8 Ultra: The first smartphone with the OmniVision OV50R sensor
According to the leaker, the Honor Magic 8 Ultra will be the world’s first smartphone to feature the 50-megapixel OmniVision OV50R sensor. This new sensor is expected to enter mass production in the first quarter of 2026, coinciding with the projected launch window for the Ultra.
The OV50R offers impressive features:
- 1/1.3 inch size with 1.2 μm pixels.
- 100% Quad Phase Detection (QPD) for faster and more precise autofocus.
- LOFIC technology providing a dynamic range of 110 dB.
- 4K triple-channel HDR and RAW RGB output in 10/12/14 bits.
- Integrated DAG HDR for better light management.
- 20% less energy consumption compared to the previous OV50K sensor.
In summary, Honor promises improved low-light image quality, smooth HDR video, and ultra-responsive autofocus, all while optimizing energy efficiency.
A high-end camera module
Leaked information suggests that the Magic 8 Ultra will not only feature this main sensor but will also include an ultra-wide-angle lens, and notably a Samsung HP9 200-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, capable of providing variable optical zoom between 4.3x and 7x.
With this configuration, Honor aims to directly compete in the high-end market, going up against models like the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, which are also highly anticipated for 2026.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and uncertainty over global availability
Under the hood, the Magic 8 Ultra is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, which has already been confirmed for the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro. This chip, manufactured by TSMC, promises top-notch performance, particularly for integrated generative AI and advanced photo processing.
While the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro are expected to be available internationally, the availability of the Magic 8 Ultra remains uncertain. Honor may opt to reserve its most ambitious model for the Chinese market, as some competitors have done with their “Ultra” editions.
A smartphone that aims to redefine mobile photography
With the Magic 8 Ultra, Honor appears poised to make a significant impact in 2026. Featuring the first OmniVision OV50R sensor, a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, and the power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the device could establish itself as a reference for photography and multimedia in the Android flagship market.
The real question will be whether Honor dares to offer this technological gem outside of China. With such specifications, the Magic 8 Ultra could attract a broad audience of mobile photography enthusiasts and cutting-edge technology fans.
