Samsung is rumored to be reintroducing a special camera feature for upcoming Galaxy S phones, a move that may have been inspired by its main competitor. According to reports from South Korean website ETNews, Samsung is considering bringing back a variable aperture camera system with future Galaxy devices. This technology was last seen in the Galaxy S9 and S10 models in 2018 and 2019, allowing the camera to switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4 apertures for improved image quality.
The decision to revisit this feature is not driven by nostalgia but rather by competition from Apple, who is rumored to be planning a similar variable aperture camera for the iPhone 18 series later this year. In response to Apple’s plans, Samsung has reportedly requested variable aperture component samples from multiple camera module partners. While the technology is still in the early stages of development, it is unlikely to debut in the upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup. However, Samsung is committed to incorporating it into a future device, with speculation pointing towards the Galaxy S27 Ultra.
Renowned leaker Ice Universe has highlighted Samsung’s strategy of closely following Apple’s moves, making the return of variable aperture technology a logical step for the company. Variable aperture cameras have been previously featured in devices from other manufacturers such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Sony, and Nubia, offering users the ability to adjust aperture settings for creative depth of field effects and better performance in low-light conditions.
While some may view variable aperture technology as a gimmick, it does offer practical benefits such as improved low-light performance and creative control over depth of field. As Samsung focuses on innovation and competition in the smartphone market, the reintroduction of variable aperture cameras could be a significant step towards enhancing the photography capabilities of future Galaxy devices.
