Updated
Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Aug 12
Samsung Drops Variable-Aperture Camera for Galaxy S27 as Higher Costs and Thicker Modules Deter 2027 Flagship
Updated
Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Aug 12

Samsung Drops Variable-Aperture Camera for Galaxy S27 as Higher Costs and Thicker Modules Deter 2027 Flagship

3 articles · Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Aug 12

Summary

  • ETNews reported Samsung has decided not to bring back variable-aperture cameras for the Galaxy S27 series, reversing earlier expectations that the S27 Ultra would revive the feature.
  • 2018-era variable aperture was reconsidered partly in response to reports Apple may use similar hardware in the iPhone 18, but Samsung reportedly judged the trade-off unattractive.
  • Higher manufacturing costs, thicker camera modules and a likely limited improvement in final image output drove the decision as component pressures continue to weigh on smartphone design.
  • The Galaxy S27 line is expected early next year, with the Ultra also rumored to lose one of its telephoto cameras, signaling a broader rethink of camera hardware priorities.

Insights

Will stripping the dedicated telephoto lens cost the Galaxy S27 Ultra its crown as the ultimate photography smartphone?
With Samsung ditching complex camera hardware, can AI and software alone defeat Apple's upcoming mechanical lenses?
Are rising component costs secretly killing physical smartphone innovation in favor of cheaper computational tricks?