Samsung Reportedly Shelves Variable Aperture Camera for Galaxy S27 Ultra

Just months after rumors surfaced about a Galaxy S9 camera feature potentially returning to the Galaxy S27 Ultra, Samsung may have changed course. According to industry insiders, the company is now reportedly abandoning plans to include a variable aperture system on the main sensor of the upcoming flagship.

A Shift in Strategy

Initially, Samsung considered reviving the feature – first seen in the 2018 Galaxy S9 – as a direct response to Apple's iPhone 18 Pro series. However, after initial evaluations, the company seems to have decided against it.

The 'RAMpocalypse' and Cost Concerns

The primary reason for this change appears to be the ongoing component cost increases, often referred to as the 'RAMpocalypse.' Implementing variable-aperture technology would have significantly increased manufacturing costs for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. Furthermore, the technology would have also made the camera module thicker, contributing to the decision.

Questionable Benefits

According to a source within the electronics components industry, Samsung may have concluded that the functional benefits of a variable aperture main camera don't justify the added complexity and cost. The source noted that with consumers prioritizing other features over camera performance, and the limited perceived utility of a variable aperture, adopting such an expensive technology would be difficult.

Apple's Influence

The move highlights the ongoing rivalry between Apple and Samsung. With Samsung seemingly stepping back from this camera innovation, Apple may continue to lead in this area.