Samsung Reportedly Testing a 200MP Periscope Camera for Future Galaxy Phones
Samsung appears to be taking the next step in smartphone camera innovation, reportedly testing a 200MP periscope zoom camera. If true, the Galaxy maker would follow brands like vivo and HONOR, which have already launched devices featuring 200MP telephoto cameras. These ultra-high-resolution zoom cameras have delivered significant improvements in long-range zoom capabilities, although they come with their own set of challenges.
Samsung’s 200MP Periscope Camera in Testing
According to a report from Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, Samsung is currently testing a 1/1.5-inch 200MP periscope sensor. This sensor is slightly smaller than the 1/1.4-inch 200MP sensors found on HONOR and vivo phones. Although further details haven’t been revealed, it’s speculated that this technology might debut on future Galaxy Ultra models, such as the Galaxy S26 Ultra or S27 Ultra, if Samsung decides to adopt it.
While the idea of a 200MP periscope camera sounds exciting, past experiences with similar technology suggest that it’s not a guaranteed solution for exceptional zoom performance. Camera hardware, software optimization, and overall execution will play critical roles in determining its success.
200MP Zoom Cameras: A Mixed Bag So Far
The first smartphones featuring 200MP telephoto cameras launched last year, delivering a higher level of detail and better zoom performance. For instance, the vivo X100 Ultra and HONOR Magic 7 Pro both demonstrated the potential of these cameras, although they also revealed some limitations.
In a head-to-head comparison, the vivo X100 Ultra’s 200MP 3.7x zoom camera often delivered better zoom shots than Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra. However, there were criticisms of over-processed low-light images and occasional inconsistencies in sharpness across the frame when using this lens. Similarly, the HONOR Magic 7 Pro’s 200MP 3x zoom camera produced detailed shots up to 12x during the day but suffered from softer details overall and disappointing performance at extreme zoom levels (30x and above).
These examples highlight the potential of 200MP zoom cameras to improve long-range photography, but they also underscore the importance of software tuning and hardware refinement. Even with high megapixel counts, challenges like image softness and over-processing remain issues that brands must address.
Challenges for Samsung’s Approach
If Samsung adopts a 200MP periscope camera, it will likely face similar challenges. The company has already struggled with shutter lag on its 200MP primary camera. Since periscope cameras typically feature narrower apertures, they often require longer shutter speeds, which could exacerbate this issue. Users may need to manage expectations, as this new camera system may not completely eliminate common limitations.
Competition in the 200MP Camera Space
Although Samsung’s 200MP periscope camera is rumored for a future Galaxy Ultra, other manufacturers are also pushing forward with similar technology. Leaks suggest that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra will feature a 200MP zoom camera, while the upcoming vivo X200 Ultra is expected to retain its 200MP lens. However, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is reportedly sticking with a more traditional telephoto setup for now, meaning we may not see Samsung’s 200MP periscope camera until 2026 or later.
The Path Ahead
While 200MP periscope cameras promise a leap in smartphone photography, their success will depend on how well brands like Samsung address hardware limitations and optimize camera software. If Samsung adopts this technology for its flagship devices, it could mark a significant step forward, but users should be aware that it might also come with some compromises.
For now, we’ll have to wait and see if Samsung’s rumored 200MP periscope camera makes its debut in the coming years.
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