Samsung seems to be preparing significant changes for the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, addressing many of the shortcomings criticized in the current S25 Ultra model. Among these, disappointing battery life and insufficient camera capabilities for a premium flagship have been points of dissatisfaction for users. However, a surprising detail could make the S26 Ultra a revolutionary model: the disappearance of the visible front camera.
This approach is reminiscent of implementations already seen from certain rival manufacturers, such as the REDMAGIC 10 Pro, which features a front camera hidden under the screen. Although the solution is aesthetically interesting, its photographic performance has often been criticized, with image quality being affected by the sensor’s positioning beneath the display layer.
However, if Samsung chooses to implement this technology in the S26 Ultra, the company will need to ensure that the captured images meet the standards imposed by a premium smartphone. Given that the device's price is expected to be high, users will have equally high expectations, including impeccable photo quality.
It is well known that giants in the smartphone industry, such as Samsung and Apple, develop multiple prototypes before deciding on the final version of a top-tier model. Thus, there is a possibility that the under-display camera technology is merely an experiment, to be analyzed in comparison with other design alternatives.
If this concept becomes a reality, the Galaxy S26 Ultra would follow the brand’s current direction, which emphasizes minimalism and refined design. A fully seamless screen without visible perforations could be a major attraction for users who prioritize an elegant and modern appearance. Additionally, with significant advances in AI-assisted image processing, such a camera could deliver results comparable to conventional ones.
Samsung is not new to attempting this kind of technology. The company has already tested the concept on the Galaxy Z Fold 3, released in 2021, but at that time, the camera quality was considered modest, being more of an experiment rather than a fully matured solution. It remains to be seen whether the Galaxy S26 Ultra will manage to bring an optimized version capable of satisfying the demands of premium users.
