Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Selfie Camera Could Be Invisible

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphone has been rumored to feature an under-display selfie camera similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, hinting at a possible downgrade.

South Korean leaker Kro has shared on X (formerly Twitter) that early Galaxy S26 Ultra prototypes are showcasing a specific design element. “The camera hole is not visible,” as quoted directly.

This suggests that Samsung is considering removing the hole-punch selfie notch from view entirely with its upcoming flagship phone, expected to launch in January 2026 (following the recent release of the Galaxy S25 series).

Why might this be a downgrade?

While having an all-screen smartphone may seem like an upgrade in theory, the idea of an in-display selfie camera isn’t generating much excitement.

We have experienced flaws with this technology, some of which have been directly from Samsung itself.

The company’s full-sized foldable range has long utilized an in-display selfie camera, keeping its large inner display free of any blemishes. While this is aesthetically pleasing, the actual quality of the selfie camera (such as on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6) suffers significantly due to this setup.

In-display selfie technology employs a lower pixel density over the hidden camera, resulting in less light entering through the gaps. Modern smartphone cameras require adequate light, so additional obstructions are detrimental.

Consequently, selfie quality tends to be subpar with in-display selfie cameras – soft, lacking detail, and poorly exposed. The Nubia Z70 Ultra is a recent example of this issue.

Why there might be reason for hope

However, it’s not all negative.

Typically, there are multiple prototypes for any major new smartphone, especially a year before its launch. This particular version of the Galaxy S26 Ultra may not even come to fruition.

Even if it does, there are reasons to be optimistic. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra was somewhat lackluster, so perhaps it’s time for something innovative from the manufacturer.

Moreover, the fact that Samsung is considering this change suggests some confidence in the technology. This indicates a potential breakthrough, raising hopes that the selfies on the Galaxy S26 Ultra may not be disappointing.

We can only hope. After Samsung’s downgrade of the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen stylus, another setback would be hard to bear.