Galaxy S27: Apple's Cast-Offs Emphasized | GadgetLad

Galaxy S27: Apple’s Cast-Offs Emphasized | GadgetLad

The design of the Samsung Galaxy S27 lineup is beginning to solidify through numerous leaks, and two of the four models are showing influences from Apple’s Pro lineup.

We’ve encountered some rather rough renders of the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra, suggesting a fresh design that closely resembles the iPhone 17 Pro.

Now, well-known Samsung insider Ice Universe has shared an image that nearly verifies the homage. It features cases for each of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S27 series: the Samsung Galaxy S27, S27+, S27 Pro, and S27 Ultra.

The last two models are particularly intriguing. While the Samsung Galaxy S27 and S27+ seem quite similar to their earlier versions, the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra and the newly introduced Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro (which looks like a smaller Ultra) are headed in a unique direction.

They align with the designs recently shared on Android Headlines.



Is Samsung’s design stagnating?

The width-spanning rectangular camera module resembles the so-called “camera plateau” that Apple debuted with the iPhone 17 Pro.

We should likely recognize the Xiaomi 17 Pro models here (including displays), considering they launched around the same period, but it’s evident which manufacturer Samsung has been watching closely.

Xiaomi

Will this have any real impact on the photographic capabilities of the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra/Pro? That’s yet to be determined, but there’s a possibility that it could be integrated to justify a robust new camera system.

It’s speculated that both devices will have only a single telephoto camera, though the Ultra might be the sole model to offer a full 5x optical zoom.

Another, possibly more probable motivation for this camera redesign might be Qi2 compatibility. Samsung’s vertical camera arrangement makes it somewhat challenging or impossible to accommodate certain magnetic accessories, which would be resolved neatly with the new configuration.

Foundry | Alex Walker-Todd

Naturally, this would imply that only the Galaxy S27 Ultra and S27 Pro are set to receive MagSafe-like wireless charging features, which would be unfortunate, although they would finally represent Samsung’s inaugural devices to do so.

At this point, Google’s Pixel series remains the only prominent Android phone lineup offering Qi2 magnetic charging (although Motorola is rumored to be coming onboard soon). It would be great for Samsung to participate, in any capacity.

MagSafe Mania

Naturally, this would imply that only the Galaxy S27 Ultra and S27 Pro are set to receive MagSafe-like wireless charging features, which would be unfortunate, although they would finally represent Samsung’s inaugural devices to do so.

At this point, Google’s Pixel series remains the only prominent Android phone lineup offering Qi2 magnetic charging (although Motorola is rumored to be coming onboard soon). It would be great for Samsung to participate, in any capacity.

Final Thoughts

Look, I’m not claiming Samsung’s lost its spark, but if they continue to mimic others, they might end up being the Spice Girls of technology—reunions and all, but lacking in fresh hits. It’s high time for some innovation, right?