Overview
- Korea’s ETNews reports Samsung has asked camera partners to develop variable-aperture components, with Samsung Electro-Mechanics and MCNEX producing samples for evaluation.
- The work is described as early-stage with no final product decision, and multiple outlets say the upgrade is unlikely to appear on the upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup.
- Some reports point to a later target window such as the Galaxy S27, reflecting a longer validation cycle before any flagship rollout.
- Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are widely expected, per analysts and leakers, to introduce a variable-aperture main camera later this year.
- Variable aperture can improve low-light capture, manage highlights, and deliver true depth-of-field control; Samsung last offered a two-stop system on the Galaxy S9/S10 but dropped it over thickness and cost, which suppliers now say have improved.