Galaxy S27 Could Revive a Camera Feature Samsung Dropped Years Ago

The rumor mill never sleeps. While we’re waiting for the Galaxy S26 series to hit the wild, leaks about the Galaxy S27 series are already surfacing. It looks like Samsung may be preparing to revive a camera feature it quietly abandoned years ago. Why now? Probably to compete with the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup.

Variable aperture camera may return to Galaxy S27 to rival iPhone 18

According to a report from ETNews, Samsung has asked multiple camera module suppliers to develop variable aperture tech for future smartphones, likely Galaxy S27 series. The move comes amid chatter that Apple plans to introduce variable aperture cameras in the iPhone 18 lineup.

Variable aperture means the lens can physically change the size of its opening, measured in f-stops. A wider aperture lets in more light, which helps in low light and produces stronger background blur. A narrower aperture restricts light in bright scenes and increases depth of field, keeping more of the image in focus.

The Galaxy S9 and later the Galaxy S10 featured a dual-aperture system that could switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4. It worked, but the feature never really took off. It added cost, took up space, and didn’t make a dramatic difference for most users, so Samsung quietly dropped it after the S10 lineup.

Fast forward to now, and things may be different. ETNews says Samsung is “strongly committed” to bringing variable aperture back and has already tapped suppliers like Samsung Electro-Mechanics and MCNEX to work on the necessary components. The tech is reportedly slimmer and cheaper than it was years ago, which makes it more practical for modern flagship phones.

It’s too late for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, but Galaxy S27 series could be where variable aperture finally makes its return. Whether Apple actually ships the feature on the iPhone 18 remains to be seen. But if it does, don’t be surprised if Samsung is ready with its own upgraded take.