Samsung developing new phone zoom tech — not for its own devices

The Future of Smartphone Cameras: Samsung and Tecno's Innovations

As the smartphone market continues to evolve, camera technology remains a key differentiator among brands. Recent developments suggest that Samsung may be holding off on introducing a new Galaxy S26 model next year, as it focuses on groundbreaking advancements in camera design. This shift could significantly impact how users capture and interact with images on their devices.

One of the most promising innovations comes from a collaboration between Samsung and Largan, a Taiwanese component manufacturer. This partnership is aimed at developing a continuous optical zoom camera lens for Tecno, a Chinese company known for models like the Spark Slim and the Phantom Ultimate G Fold. The result of this collaboration includes two distinct lenses that could redefine smartphone photography.

The Freeform Continuum Telephoto Lens

The first lens, called the Freeform Continuum Telephoto, is particularly noteworthy. It offers a zoom range of 1x to 9x, combining the functionality of main and telephoto cameras into one. Unlike traditional phone cameras, which often have limited zoom capabilities, this lens allows for infinitely adjustable zoom levels. This means users can achieve full-quality optical zoom at any magnification without experiencing the visual jump that typically occurs when switching between zoom levels.

The innovation behind this lens involves "Alvarez lenses," a design that uses two small lenses capable of adjusting magnification through minor lateral movements. This approach results in a more compact module compared to previous attempts at implementing similar technology on smartphones.

Despite the excitement surrounding this development, Tecno acknowledges that it will take at least another year of refinement before such a lens is ready for production. However, this isn't the only advancement Tecno has been showcasing.

The Dual-Mirror Reflect Telephoto Module

The second lens, the Dual-Mirror Reflect Telephoto module, is already prepared for use in the coming year. This design employs two parallel mirrors to provide zoom capabilities within a smaller space than conventional periscope-style telephoto cameras. While this solution offers a more compact form factor, it does come with a trade-off in terms of image brightness. Whether this trade-off is worth it depends on the specific device and its intended use.

A Solution to a Persistent Smartphone Challenge

Continuous zoom is a common feature in full-size camera lenses but has been rare in smartphones due to size and engineering challenges. Sony's Xperia 1 flagships have managed to incorporate this feature, with the latest model, the Xperia 1 VII, offering a 3.5x to 7x optical zoom range. However, Sony's presence in the global smartphone market is relatively limited, especially outside Japan, so many consumers may not be aware of this capability.

Tecno, while a smaller player in the industry, has introduced some innovative ideas that could eventually make their way to larger markets like the U.S. and U.K. Having Samsung involved in the development of these lenses is a significant milestone, even if it doesn't guarantee that future Galaxy models will feature these designs.

What to Expect from the Galaxy S26

While the Galaxy S26 is expected to launch in January or February of 2026, it may not include the new zoom lens designs developed by Samsung and Largan. Instead, it could come with other camera upgrades, such as a 200MP telephoto lens or a variable aperture. These features would still represent a major leap forward in smartphone photography.

However, if these new lenses do appear on a Galaxy phone first, Tecno might take legal action against Samsung, given the potential for intellectual property disputes.

For now, the focus remains on the future of smartphone cameras and how companies like Samsung and Tecno are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. As these technologies mature, they could revolutionize how we capture and share our experiences through mobile devices.