# Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Is Variable Aperture Making a Comeback?
Reports suggest that Samsung is thinking about reintroducing a feature it tested in the past—variable aperture—on its forthcoming **Galaxy S26 Ultra**. If this turns out to be accurate, it could represent a major leap forward in smartphone photography, especially in low-light scenarios and HDR capabilities.
## **What is Variable Aperture?**
Variable aperture enables a camera lens to modify the size of its opening, regulating the amount of light that hits the sensor. A broader aperture (lower f-number) allows more light in, enhancing low-light performance, while a narrower aperture (higher f-number) improves depth of field and clarity in bright settings.
Samsung had previously launched a version of this technology in the **Galaxy S9**, which could toggle between **f/1.5 and f/2.4**. However, this was a limited application compared to what rivals like **Xiaomi** have recently accomplished.
## **What We Know About the Camera of the Galaxy S26 Ultra**
As per a **Weibo post by Ice Universe**, there are rumors that Samsung is planning to incorporate **variable aperture** into the **primary camera** of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Although the specific aperture range is yet to be revealed, comparisons are being made to **Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra**, which boasts an **f/1.63 to f/4.0** range.
Moreover, Samsung is said to be developing a **200MP telephoto sensor** with a **1/1.5-inch sensor size**, which could further improve zoom performance and overall image quality.
## **Potential Improvements to Photography**
Should Samsung roll out a **genuine variable aperture system**, users might gain enhanced control over their photography akin to professional cameras. Possible advantages include:
– **Enhanced Low-Light Performance**: A wider aperture (e.g., f/1.5 or lower) could result in brighter nighttime photographs.
– **Superior HDR**: A tighter aperture (e.g., f/4.0) could enhance sharpness and dynamic range in bright conditions.
– **Increased Creative Control**: Users could modify depth of field for portrait images, producing a more organic bokeh effect.
## **Is This Samsung’s Opportunity?**
Although the **Galaxy S9’s dual-aperture system** was a noteworthy innovation, it didn’t achieve broad acceptance. However, with the progress in computational photography and sensor technology, Samsung might now be positioned to fine-tune and build upon this idea.
If the speculation proves correct, the **Galaxy S26 Ultra** could establish a new benchmark for smartphone photography, providing users with enhanced flexibility and superior image quality. As we await formal confirmation, both photography aficionados and Samsung supporters will be keen to find out if this feature successfully returns.
