Samsung Galaxy S26 Rumored to Feature Upgraded Main Camera Sensor — A Departure from GN3

May 22, 2025 — Tech News: As anticipation builds for the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, expected in January 2026, a fresh rumor suggests the South Korean tech giant is preparing a significant camera upgrade — particularly for the base Galaxy S26 model.

Samsung Galaxy S26

According to industry insiders, the S26 will still feature a 50MP main camera, but with a twist: Samsung is reportedly replacing the ISOCELL GN3 sensor, which has been used since the Galaxy S23, including in the current Galaxy S25. This marks a major shift, as the GN3 has been a staple in Samsung’s base flagships for nearly three generations.

A New ISOCELL GN Sensor in the Works?

While the exact sensor hasn’t been officially identified, sources claim that the replacement will still belong to Samsung’s ISOCELL GN family, suggesting incremental — but meaningful — performance improvements in dynamic range, low-light photography, and autofocus speed.

The rumored sensor is likely a next-generation ISOCELL GN variant that has yet to be publicly announced. If true, this could give the Galaxy S26 a noticeable imaging edge over its predecessor — while retaining the familiar 50MP resolution for consistency across product lines.

What Else We Know About the S26 So Far

Samsung has remained tight-lipped about the Galaxy S26 lineup, and it’s still unclear whether a Plus variant will be part of the launch. However, rumors have hinted at AI-powered photography enhancements, improved thermals, and possibly a more compact design philosophy across the series.

With the Galaxy S26 Ultra expected to retain its 200MP camera configuration, this base-model upgrade could bring added value to a broader range of consumers looking for flagship performance at a more accessible price point.

More leaks are likely as the launch window approaches, but for now, a refreshed primary camera sensor could be one of the more welcome — and surprising — changes in the next Galaxy.

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Ganpat Singh Chouhan
Ganpat Singh Chouhan
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.