Galaxy S26 Ultra leak: Samsung will be releasing its next-gen flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and recent rumors indicate some gargantuan camera improvements. The most significant feature is a new 200-megapixel Sony sensor, potentially replacing Samsung’s in-house ISOCELL technology. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly release in January 2026, with some major imaging and hardware overhauls.
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A Sony Sensor for the Ultra Lineup
Samsung had used in-house ISOCELL sensors for Ultra phones in the past. But a new leak by Chinese tipster Fixed Focus Digital puts an end to this tradition. The Galaxy S26 Ultra could have a 1/1.1-inch 200-megapixel Sony CMOS sensor, according to the leak. It would be a step up from the 1/1.3-inch sensor used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, with improved light collection and potentially even better images.
Camera Strategy Turns a New Leaf
If true, it would be the first time that Samsung’s Ultra series uses a Sony sensor as its main camera. It would be a sign that there is a significant imaging strategy change in the brand, as Samsung puts image quality ahead of loyalty to its sensors. The gesture can enable Samsung to compete more head-on with competitors like Apple and Google, which have continually enhanced their camera systems.
So Much More Than a Main Camera
While the spotlight belongs to the new 200MP sensor, Galaxy S26 Ultra promises to deliver improvements across the board. The hardware on the rear camera could feature a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, a 12-megapixel 3x telephoto lens, and a 50-megapixel periscope lens with 5x optical zoom capability. All of these advancements will be powered by Samsung’s next-generation ProVisual Engine, a new image processing stage that promises to deliver improved dynamic range and color accuracy.
Performance and Display Enhancements
The Galaxy S26 Ultra won’t be camera-only. It is reported to be powered by the yet-to-be-announced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chip, which may be available in September. Combined with 16GB of RAM, the phone will provide excellent performance for gaming and multitasking. Samsung can maintain the S25 Ultra’s 6.9-inch screen but with thinner bezels to provide a better viewing experience.
Predicted Release and Models
Samsung will probably release the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, and the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Edge are probably going to be included. The organization is also going to end the Plus variant to simplify its lineup. With its high-end camera hardware and powerful internals, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is turning out to be one of the most capable flagships of the next year.