Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly not feature an under-display camera, opting instead for a traditional hole-punch setup. This decision comes after previous intentions to incorporate the under-display technology, aiming for a seamless all-screen experience. However, issues related to cost and quality led Samsung to abandon the idea. The company has faced challenges with the performance of under-display cameras in their Galaxy Z Fold series, and the S26 Ultra will likely prioritize camera quality over design. Samsung plans to revisit this technology in the future when it can achieve a level of quality comparable to conventional cameras.
Samsung has been incorporating under-display cameras in several generations of its Galaxy Z Fold series, which are situated beneath the folding display. However, it’s safe to say that these cameras leave much to be desired.
Therefore, you might feel reassured to learn that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will not feature such a camera, instead opting for the reliable hole-punch design. This comes from a recent rumor out of Korea that contradicts an earlier claim made back in February.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Reports suggest that Samsung initially planned to implement an under-display camera in the S26 Ultra to achieve that seamless all-screen appearance. However, they faced significant challenges with the technology, including cost-related issues and potentially others, one of which might be quality.
Samsung is anticipated to defer the introduction of this technology to its flagship slab-style smartphone series until the time comes when under-display cameras can genuinely compete with conventional cameras in terms of quality.
Source (in Korean)