[updated 14th August, 2023]
Tipster @IceUniverse reported that the 3X telephoto will get a new high resolution sensor for sharper images in the 3-9x zoom range.
The camera specifications of the Galaxy S24 Ultra hasn’t really changed that much except the new 3x telephoto sensor. However, software processing matters more than the optical equipment itself in a smartphone these days, and there’s still room for improvement in the software side.
So there’s no need for disappointment regarding the camera improvement on the upcoming flagship.
[Original story]
Samsung’s S series Ultra flagships have gained recognition for their exceptional long-range zoom capabilities. Since the introduction of the S21 Ultra in 2021, Samsung has employed two distinct telephoto modules to ensure top-notch zoom quality at extended distances. While Samsung has enhanced the software processing quite a bit, the telephoto sensors have remained unchanged for the last 3 generations.
Reportedly, Samsung was working on a novel solution that mimics the zooming function of a professional camera in a smartphone. This involved the use of a variable zoom telephoto module was expected to be featured in the upcoming flagship, the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
However, Samsung has decided to cancel the variable zoom camera for the S24 Ultra. Instead, the device will continue using the 3x telephoto and a separate 10x periscope telephoto for long range zooms. But this time Samsung is using a new high resolution sensor in the 3X telephoto module as opposed to the 10MP one on the previous 3 generations of Ultra models.
So, for now, it maintains the 4-camera design like previous three generations.
We are not seeing variable zoom telephoto in smartphones yet, but I think, it’s just a matter of time before we see it becoming a norm just like the fixed focus periscope telephoto on smartphone we are seeing today. For example, Xiaomi is putting periscope zoom lenses throughout the Xiaomi 14 series and it’s the first time the base and the mid model is getting a telephoto hardware.
Reason why Samsung may have cancelled the variable zoom:
Samsung is abandoning one of the key selling points of the S24 Ultra, likely due to the technology not being ready to meet expectations.
The variable zoom feature relies on the physical movement of lenses, which would result in a significantly higher number of moving parts within the compact camera module. In addition to skillfully fitting these components into the limited space, Samsung would also need to ensure that the assembly is resistant to shocks and physical impacts.
With the focus on incorporating stronger glass and metal in the phone’s design to enhance external durability, the use of delicate moving parts shifts the attention inward. This aspect requires considerable time and effort to address and refine.
