Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy S26 Pro in January 2026, but a recent leak indicates that the model will not bring major advances in its photography set. Segundo the informant Tarun Vats, the smartphone must reuse sensors already seen in the Galaxy S22, from 2022, frustrating the expectations of fans who were waiting for significant updates. The Galaxy Unpacked event, scheduled for the end of the month, will present the S26 line, including the Pro, Plus and Ultra models. The lack of innovations in the Pro’s cameras could impact the Samsung’s competitiveness against rivals such as the Apple and Xiaomi.
The Galaxy S26 Pro is touted as a replacement for the standard model in the line, bringing the Exynos 2600 chipset to global markets. Apesar promises improvements in One UI 8.5 with artificial intelligence features, the stagnation in photographic hardware raises criticism. Consumidores expected, for example, a widely speculated 50 MP ultrawide sensor. Below are details of the leak and its implications.
- Main cameras: Sensor 50 MP main with optical stabilization (OIS), 12 MP ultrawide and 10 MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom.
- Front camera: 12 MP Sensor, housed in the screen hole, without significant changes.
- Competition: Modelos like Xiaomi 16 and iPhone 17 promise more advanced sensors.
Samsung has not yet confirmed the specifications, but Tarun Vats’s history of leaks reinforces the credibility of the information.
Photographic specifications
The camera set of the Galaxy S26 Pro should repeat the configuration of the Galaxy S22, launched four years ago. The 50 MP main sensor with OIS is functional, but does not keep up with recent advances from competitors.
The 12 MP ultrawide lens, criticized for its limited resolution, disappoints compared to expectations for an upgrade to 50 MP. The 10 MP telephoto, with 3x optical zoom, also presents no new features, maintaining the same performance as previous models.
Market reactions
Samsung’s decision to recycle sensors generated criticism among consumers and analysts. Fóruns of technology point out that the name “Pro” suggests greater innovation, which does not seem to materialize.
Many fans express their intention to migrate to brands like Apple, whose iPhone 17 is expected to bring advances in night photography. The Xiaomi, with line 16, is also mentioned as an alternative, especially for its high-resolution cameras.
Comparison with the S26 line
While the Galaxy S26 Pro faces criticism, the Ultra model promises improvements. The S26 Ultra is expected to include a 200MP main sensor with variable aperture and a 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom.
The Galaxy S26 Plus, recently “resurrected” by the Samsung, may adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset in some markets. Já the S26 Edge, despite rumors of cancellation, could be launched later with a 4,400 mAh battery.
The choice of the Exynos 2600 for the S26 Pro, instead of the Snapdragon, also divides opinions, with fears about gaming performance and energy efficiency.
Samsung Strategy
Samsung appears to focus on software improvements to compensate for hardware stagnation. One UI 8.5, based on Android 16, will bring AI features for photo and video editing, such as object removal and automatic adjustments.
The company also plans design changes, with redesigned camera modules in the Pro and Ultra models. Anéis with slightly popped lenses will replace the “loose rings” look of its predecessors.
Despite these bets, analysts suggest that the lack of innovation in cameras could hurt sales, especially in competitive markets like Europa and Ásia.
Price impact
Rumors indicate that the S26 line will have a price increase due to the cost of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and the M14 OLED panel. The Galaxy S26 Pro, even with recycled cameras, can cost more than the S25, which intensifies the criticism.
The strategy of keeping old sensors while raising prices is seen as risky. Consumidores can opt for models from Chinese brands, which offer superior hardware at more affordable prices.
Competitive Landscape
The smartphone market in 2026 will be fierce, with Xiaomi launching the 16 line and Apple consolidating the iPhone 17. Samsung, traditionally strong in mobile photography, needs to innovate to maintain its position.
The reuse of sensors from the Galaxy S22 in the S26 Pro contrasts with the advances promised by the S26 Ultra, which should adopt COE screen technology and 65W charging. The difference between the models in the line can fragment the public, with the Ultra attracting those looking for innovation and the Pro taking a backseat.
