With the smartphone market constantly evolving, mid-range devices are increasingly expected to deliver flagship-level features, particularly in photography. New leaks have surfaced detailing the camera specifications for Samsung's upcoming 2026 mid-range contenders, the Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A37, suggesting significant sensor upgrades that could redefine expectations for affordable photography.
A New Main Camera Sensor for Enhanced Low-Light Performance
The most substantial upgrade appears to be reserved for the more affordable Galaxy A37. According to leaked information, it is expected to adopt the same 50 MP Sony IMX906 primary sensor as its higher-tier sibling, the A57. This represents a notable leap from the Galaxy A36's sensor. The IMX906 features a larger 1/1.56-inch optical format, which is significantly bigger than the 1/1.96-inch sensor found in the current model. This larger sensor size is a critical factor for image quality, as it allows the camera to capture more light. The practical result for users will be noticeably brighter, cleaner, and more detailed photos, especially in challenging low-light conditions where previous budget phones have often struggled.
Reported Camera Specifications (Subject to Change & Regional Variation):
| Component | Samsung Galaxy A57 (Leaked) | Samsung Galaxy A37 (Leaked) | Previous Model (A56/A36) for Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50 MP Sony IMX906 (1/1.56") or 50 MP ISOCELL S5KGNJ | 50 MP Sony IMX906 (1/1.56") or 50 MP ISOCELL S5KGNJ | A56: 50 MP (1/1.56") / A36: 50 MP (1/1.96") |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 13 MP ISOCELL S5K3L6 | 8 MP GalaxyCore GC08A3 | A56: 12 MP |
| Macro Camera | 5 MP GalaxyCore GC05A3 | 5 MP GalaxyCore GC05A3 | 5 MP |
| Front Camera | 12 MP ISOCELL S5K3LC | 12 MP GalaxyCore GC12A2 | 12 MP |
Refined Camera Systems Across the Board
While the A37 gets the headline main sensor upgrade, the Galaxy A57 is also slated for meaningful improvements in its supporting cameras. The ultra-wide camera is reportedly being upgraded to a 13 MP ISOCELL S5K3L6 sensor, offering a resolution bump over the 12 MP shooter on the Galaxy A56. For selfie enthusiasts, the A57 is tipped to retain a 12 MP front-facing camera, but will use Samsung's own ISOCELL S5K3LC sensor instead of a GalaxyCore module. Both models are expected to carry over a 5 MP macro camera for close-up shots. It's important to note that regional variations may apply; in some markets, both phones might ship with Samsung's own 50 MP ISOCELL S5KGNJ sensor instead of the Sony IMX906, a common practice to manage supply chain constraints while aiming for equivalent image quality.
Under-the-Hood and Display Enhancements
Beyond the cameras, the leaks point to a comprehensive refresh for both devices. They are rumored to share a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, a feature once reserved for flagships that greatly enhances the user experience. Powering the devices will be a substantial 5,000 mAh battery supporting 45W wired charging. The performance segment is also getting attention, with the Galaxy A57 expected to be equipped with the new Exynos 1680 system-on-chip paired with an Xclipse 550 GPU. The Galaxy A37 may see a more dramatic shift, potentially moving from a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip to an Exynos 1480 with an Xclipse 530 GPU, promising a generational performance boost for both models.
Other Key Rumored Specifications:
- Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate (Both models)
- Battery & Charging: 5,000 mAh with 45W wired charging (Both models)
- Processor (SoC):
- Galaxy A57: Exynos 1680 with Xclipse 550 GPU
- Galaxy A37: Exynos 1480 with Xclipse 530 GPU
- Potential Launch: February 2026 (Earlier than the typical March release)
Anticipated Launch and Competitive Landscape
In a departure from Samsung's typical release schedule, reliable sources suggest the Galaxy A57 and A37 could launch as early as February 2026, potentially ahead of the usual March window for A-series phones. This earlier release may be part of a broader strategy to fill the product lineup, especially if the flagship Galaxy S26 series faces delays. While the camera upgrades are significant, the leaks confirm the continued absence of a dedicated telephoto lens, a feature found on competitors like the Nothing Phone (3a). This leaves a potential gap for users who prioritize zoom capabilities, even as Samsung strengthens the core photographic experience with better sensors and low-light performance.
The leaked specifications for the Samsung Galaxy A57 and A37 paint a picture of two aggressively updated mid-range phones for 2026. By focusing on larger, more capable camera sensors and boosting core specs like the display, battery, and processor, Samsung appears ready to address previous criticisms and raise the bar for what consumers can expect from a budget-friendly device. If the rumors hold true, these phones could become the new benchmarks in the highly competitive mid-range segment.