Samsung Aims for Thinner Galaxy S26 with Innovative Camera Lens Technology
Samsung is reportedly developing a novel lens technology that could lead to a significantly slimmer camera module in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, without compromising image quality. This move addresses the growing size of smartphone camera units in recent years.
The key innovation lies in how Samsung intends to manage the “dead area” of lenses – the part where they are attached and through which stray light can cause unwanted glare and ghosting in photos. Traditionally, manufacturers have used a thin film to darken these areas. However, sources indicate that Samsung is exploring the use of inkjet printing technology for this purpose in the Galaxy S26.
Inkjet printing of a matte layer directly onto this dead area of the lens is believed to be more efficient in reducing the overall thickness of the optical module compared to using a separate film. By minimizing the space needed between the lenses and the sensor, the entire camera assembly can be made more compact, potentially leading to a thinner phone design or allowing for other internal components, like a larger battery, within the same dimensions.
Interestingly, the report mentions that Samsung previously patented this technology under patent number 10-2018-015260. This suggests that the company has been researching and developing this approach for several years, and the Galaxy S26 series, expected to debut next year, could be the first to implement it.
This potential shift towards inkjet-printed lens coatings highlights Samsung’s commitment to innovation in smartphone design and camera technology. If successful, it could pave the way for future smartphones with powerful camera systems housed in sleeker and more ergonomic bodies.