As Apple gears up to launch the iPhone 18 Pro featuring a variable aperture camera, Samsung is reportedly exploring a similar path by revisiting technology first seen in its Galaxy S9. This move could mark a strategic response aimed at maintaining competitiveness in the premium smartphone camera market.
Samsung Considers Variable Aperture Cameras
According to a recent report from Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station, Samsung is testing variable aperture camera systems, possibly to rival the rumored camera setup on the iPhone 18 Pro. This technology allows a camera to adjust its aperture for better control over light intake, improving image quality in various lighting conditions.
A Nod to the Galaxy S9
This possible reintroduction appears to be a "throwback" to the Galaxy S9’s pioneering camera design. While Samsung has evolved since then, bringing back variable aperture could signal an emphasis on photographic excellence in upcoming devices.
Industry Adoption of Variable Aperture Cameras
Variable aperture cameras have appeared in various flagship devices beyond Samsung and Apple. For example, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra featured an f/1.6-4.0 automatic variable aperture, though this was removed in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Huawei has embraced this technology extensively, incorporating it into its recent foldables and Mate 80 series smartphones.
Users Weigh in on Variable Aperture
Current results from 23 votes:
- Yes, I’d love it – 52.17%
- Maybe, if it improves photo quality – 43.48%
- No, that’s unnecessary – 4.35%
Future Prospects: Galaxy S27 Ultra Could Bring the Feature Back
Earlier rumors suggested Samsung might revive the variable aperture lens with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, though these reports did not gain traction. More recent speculation points toward the Galaxy S27 Ultra as the likely candidate to reintroduce this feature, potentially launching shortly after the iPhone 18 Pro announcement.
Conclusion: Revisiting Proven Technology
Samsung’s potential move to bring back variable aperture cameras signals both a competitive response to Apple and a strategic emphasis on photographic innovation. By drawing from the camera heritage of the Galaxy S9 while incorporating modern improvements, Samsung aims to enhance smartphone photography in the next generation of its flagship devices.
