Samsung might finally eliminate the most criticized camera lens on the Galaxy Ultra.

      Samsung may be gearing up for a significant transformation of its flagship Galaxy S series. Recent leaks indicate that the company is testing a new Galaxy S27 Pro model that could fit between the standard Galaxy S27 and the Galaxy S27 Ultra. Notably, this phone might provide a distinctly different camera experience compared to the Ultra.

      The most significant alteration concerns Samsung's telephoto camera approach—an area where the Galaxy Ultra models have received criticism for years.

      Samsung might finally eliminate its most criticized camera lens.

      According to recent rumors, both the Galaxy S27 Pro and Galaxy S27 Ultra are set to feature the same 200MP primary camera and ultrawide sensor. The key difference is expected to be in the zoom camera configuration. The Galaxy S27 Pro is anticipated to include a new 50MP ALoP telephoto sensor with 3.5x optical zoom, whereas the Galaxy S27 Ultra may have a distinct 50MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom.

      More crucially, Samsung is reportedly planning to completely remove the long-criticized 3x telephoto lens from the Ultra model. This lens has been one of the more problematic aspects of recent Galaxy Ultra phones, frequently providing inconsistent image quality in comparison to Samsung’s superior 5x zoom hardware and high-resolution main camera.

      If these rumors hold true, Samsung might instead focus more on cropping from its 200MP primary camera for mid-range zoom levels. This could streamline the camera system while enhancing overall image consistency.

      Ironically, the Galaxy S27 Pro’s 3.5x optical zoom configuration could deliver a more balanced and practical photography experience for many users. Mid-range zoom levels tend to be more beneficial for portraits, food photography, pets, and everyday shots than extreme long-range zoom.

      Samsung may finally be addressing its “Middle Child” issue.

      The leak also hints at Samsung re-evaluating the structure of its flagship lineup. For years, the Galaxy S Ultra models have received nearly all of Samsung’s high-end features, while the standard and Plus models often appeared to be lesser options with fewer standout characteristics. This left many consumers torn between a compact phone or opting for the fully-featured Ultra. The Galaxy S27 Pro may finally fill that void.

      Reports suggest that Samsung aims for the Pro model to function as a true premium flagship rather than merely an upgraded Plus variant. The main trade-off compared to the Ultra may simply be the absence of the S Pen and some differences in zoom capabilities.

      This approach is similar to what companies like Apple have done with the iPhone Pro range, allowing users to select between two premium flagships instead of just one clearly superior model.

      Why this is significant

      If Samsung implements these changes, the Galaxy S27 series could represent one of the company’s most substantial flagship redesigns in years. Eliminating the 3x telephoto camera would resolve one of the most persistent complaints about Galaxy Ultra cameras. Additionally, a more premium Galaxy S27 Pro could finally provide users with a flagship Samsung device without the necessity of opting for the bulky Ultra model.

      However, it is essential to note that these are still preliminary leaks. Samsung is reportedly evaluating several prototypes internally, meaning that specifications and camera configurations could still evolve ahead of the launch. The Galaxy S27 lineup is anticipated to be revealed in early 2027. In the interim, more leaks regarding camera hardware, chipset, battery enhancements, and final product names are likely to surface in the coming months.

      For now, the Galaxy S27 Pro is already emerging as one of Samsung’s most intriguing flagship innovations in years—potentially the device that finally resolves the company’s challenging middle-ground dilemma.