It seems like Samsung is on a mission to make its flagship phones even thinner than the already pretty slim Galaxy S25 series.
A new report states that the company is working on a major redesign for its upcoming Galaxy S26 flagship series that would shrink one of the bulkiest components inside: the camera module.
A new approach to lens assembly
Every tiny bit counts. | Image credit – Samsung Electronics
The report goes into further detail to explain that Samsung Electro-Mechanics is developing a slimmer camera module by replacing traditional film layers between lenses with matte ink applied using an inkjet printing process.
These film layers are typically used to reduce flare and ghosting caused by internal light reflections, but Samsung’s new approach tries to achieve the same result while shaving down the depth of the camera module.
A drawing from Samsung's patent application in 2018 showing a method of applying matte ink instead of film layers.
The company reportedly refers to this method as a “ring pattern” design. The image above, taken from a Samsung patent filed back in 2018, offers a visual explanation. In the illustration, part 30 indicates the material used between lens elements to reduce internal reflections—now targeted for replacement with printed matte ink.
The patent is still pending approval, but industry sources suggest Samsung plans to implement this technology in time for the Galaxy S26 series.
A slimmer phone needs more than a thin camera
Even with a thinner camera module, Samsung will need to look elsewhere to shave off more millimeters. Beyond switching to inkjet-based anti-flare coatings, a thinner Galaxy S26 may also require:
A shift to SiC battery technology
More compact vapor chamber cooling systems
Slimmer protective glass for both the front and back panels
Together, these changes could help Samsung offer a significantly thinner device without cutting down on features or battery life.
So what does this mean for you
The new camera module design could be a hint into Samsung's plans for the future. | Image credit – PhoneArena
If successful, Samsung’s new camera module design may eliminate one of the most common compromises in phone design: the camera bump. It's too early to say whether the S26 Ultra or even the base S26 will lose the bulge entirely.
Reducing module thickness could lead to sleeker aesthetics, improved pocketability, and lower weight. Whether the average consumer wants thinner phones is a different topic, but it seems all major manufacturers, Samsung included, are betting on these changes as the next thing they can promote their phones with.
That said, pursuing an even slimmer profile inevitably raises concerns around battery life, thermal management, and structural integrity.
It’s also a curious move, considering that Samsung just introduced the Galaxy S25 Edge, a brand-new variant that stakes its entire identity on being exceptionally thin. Pushing the rest of the Galaxy S26 lineup in a similar direction so soon could either dilute the Edge’s uniqueness or signal a broader shift in Samsung’s design philosophy.
In any case, the Galaxy S26 series is still many months away from launch, and these reported hardware changes are likely still being finalized. Whether Samsung is aiming for a unified design language or simply experimenting with component efficiency remains to be seen.
Aleksandar is a tech enthusiast with a broad range of interests, from smartphones to space exploration. His curiosity extends to hands-on DIY experiments with his gadgets, and he enjoys switching between different brands to experience the latest innovations. Prior to joining PhoneArena, Aleksandar worked on the Google Art Project, digitizing valuable artworks and gaining diverse perspectives on technology. When he's not immersed in tech, Aleksandar is an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain hikes, wildlife photography, and nature conservation. His interests also extend to martial arts, running, and snowboarding, reflecting his dynamic approach to life and technology.
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