A new report from tipster Ice Universe on X claims the Galaxy S27 Ultra will retain its 5x periscope camera with a 1/2.52-inch sensor, contradicting earlier rumors of a 50MP 4x telephoto with a larger 1/1.9-inch sensor. The tipster dismisses the 4x rumor as false, suggesting Samsung may drop the dedicated 3x telephoto entirely, leaving the 5x unit as the sole zoom hardware. Android Central notes Ice Universe has a history of spreading false information, but the practical rationale for sticking with 5x is strong: the existing module aligns with Samsung's camera strategy, avoiding costs of new sensor development, optics, tuning, and production.

The 5x optical reach also supports sharp 10x+ detail via high-resolution sensor cropping, which a 4x lens struggles with at high magnification. However, a 1/1.9-inch sensor would offer cleaner zoom, better low-light performance, dynamic range, and portraits. For now, the safer bet pairs the 5x telephoto with the 200MP main camera for lower zoom levels.

With multiple S27 Ultra prototypes reportedly under evaluation, the final camera setup remains fluid ahead of launch.