Galaxy S26: Samsung prepares a photographic overhaul for the entire lineup
After months of conflicting rumors, a new leak has reignited interest in Samsung’s Galaxy S26, and this time, the news looks promising. If accurate, the Galaxy S26 series could finally address complaints that fans have voiced for several generations—particularly regarding photography.
Galaxy S26: A Major Overhaul of the Telephoto Module
One of the most significant changes involves the 3x telephoto sensor, which has often been seen as a weakness in the Galaxy lineup. Previously, Samsung relied on a small 10-megapixel sensor (1/3.5” on the Ultra, 1/3.9” on the standard models).
According to a leak from Alchimist Leaks, all Galaxy S26 models—S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra—will transition to a larger 12-megapixel telephoto sensor (1/2.55”).
The Galaxy S26 Ultra may even feature a 50-megapixel telephoto lens, representing a significant leap in zoom quality and brightness. The S26 and S26+ models will also benefit from a 50-megapixel ultra-wide angle lens, compared to the previous generation’s 12-megapixel sensor.
Longer Lasting Batteries
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s battery capacity will increase to 5,400 mAh (up from 5,000 mAh previously), while still maintaining a slim profile. The Galaxy S26+ will come with 4,900 mAh, and the standard model will feature between 4,200 and 4,300 mAh.
Samsung is expected to achieve this by utilizing silicon-carbon battery cells, a technology still rare in commercial smartphones but which offers higher energy density.
Brighter and Sharper Displays
All models in the series will feature the new OLED M14 panels from Samsung Display, boasting QHD resolution across the board:
- Galaxy S26: 6.3 inches Quad HD
- Galaxy S26+: 6.7 inches Quad HD
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: 6.9 inches Quad HD + “AI Privacy Screen” (intelligent angle filtering)
These LTPO 120 Hz displays promise brightness levels exceeding 3,500 nits, improved energy efficiency, and more accurate color reproduction.
Performance Boosted by Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite
As usual, Samsung will split the lineup between two processors based on the market:
- Exynos 2600 (built on a 2 nm process, used primarily in Europe)
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite (for American and Asian markets)
Both processors will incorporate next-generation AI modules, already confirmed by Daniel Araujo, Vice President of Samsung’s Mobile Division, during the Q3 2025 earnings conference.
The “Galaxy S26 More Slim”: An Unexpected New Variant
Another surprise from the leak is an unprecedented model called Galaxy S26 “More Slim”. This smartphone will feature a 6.6-inch QHD display, two 50-megapixel sensors (main and a hybrid ultra-wide/telephoto), and a battery of approximately 4,300 mAh.
The device is targeted at users looking for a sleeker design without the trade-offs that led to the discontinuation of the Galaxy S26 Edge.
An Finally Coherent S26 Series?
If these details prove accurate, the Galaxy S26 series would represent a genuine strategic overhaul:
- All models would finally provide consistent photo quality.
- Displays and batteries would be enhanced.
- Artificial intelligence would be central to the user experience.
After a 2025 dominated by the iPhone 17, Samsung seems ready to reclaim technological leadership with a more balanced and ambitious lineup.
Although credible, the Alchimist Leaks remain unverified. Nonetheless, the Galaxy S26 appears poised to be the most ambitious evolution of the range since the S21. After years of stagnation, Samsung seems prepared to deliver a true generational leap—in photography, design, and artificial intelligence.
