Samsung’s Next Budget 5G Phone Could Feature OIS

Samsung may soon bring a premium camera feature to its budget phones. Reports originating from Korea claim the company is gearing up to add OIS (optical image stabilization) support to the Galaxy A1x series, starting with the Galaxy A17 later this year. It could be the first device in its segment to feature this camera technology.

Samsung to offer OIS on the Galaxy A17

When OIS first appeared on smartphones, it was a flagship-only feature. Over time, OIS has steadily made its way down the ladder, becoming a common feature in mid-range phones. As the competition heats up, device manufacturers keep making the technology more affordable. Now, if a new rumor from South Korea is to be believed, Samsung might be ready to take the next big step: bringing OIS to its entry-level devices.

The addition of OIS could be a defining upgrade for the Galaxy A17. Currently, the most affordable Samsung phone with OIS is the Galaxy A26, which starts at $300. The A1x series, meanwhile, is typically priced well under $200, so it makes OIS more accessible, improving the image quality on budget phones.

For the uninitiated, optical image stabilization is a hardware-level camera technology that physically adjusts the lens or sensor to counteract small hand movements, which helps reduce blur in photos and shakiness in videos. It’s particularly helpful in low-light scenarios and for users with unsteady hands. If the Galaxy A17 gets OIS, it’d be a significant win for smartphone photography at this price point.

Samsung’s A1x series already offers a solid mix of specs and affordability. These phones often lead budget sales charts, even making it to the best-selling smartphone lists. The Galaxy A16 5G, launched in late 2024 at just $199, is currently one of the most popular smartphones globally. Bringing OIS to the Galaxy A17 would make the lineup more appealing with a camera experience that rivals some mid-range competitors.