Samsung's budget Galaxy A-series phones could get a major camera upgrade next year

Samsung Galaxy A56 cameras
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Samsung's A-series phones have often fallen by the wayside to some degree when compared to the more powerful Galaxy S phones. However, a new report has revealed that the next generation of phones could have at least one big change.

The details were uncovered by SmartPrix, which reportedly found details for the Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A37 sensors in leaked software. At a glance, the cameras appear relatively similar to the ones found on the Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36, but there are some notable differences. For one, both phones are expected to feature Sony's IMX906 sensor for the main camera, at least in some markets.

Samsung A37 (top) and A57 (bottom) camera references

A37 camera numbers (top) A57 camera numbers (bottom) (Image credit: SmartPrix)

This would have a much bigger effect on images from the Galaxy A37. Sony's sensor uses a larger 1/1.56 optical format than the 1/1.95-inch IMX882 found in the Galaxy A36. As such, we'd expect better low-light performance from the phone's camera, as well as reduced image blur due to the lens closing more rapidly.

Other than that, the leaked codes indicate the A37 will feature an 8MP GalaxyCore GC08A3 ultra-wide camera and a 5MP GalaxyCore GC05A3 macro camera. Meanwhile, the front camera will use a 12 MP GalaxyCore GC12A2 sensor.

What about the Galaxy A57?

Samsung Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

For the most part, the Galaxy A57's cameras are less of a noticeable upgrade. The report does indicate that the phone could feature an ISOCELL S5KGNJ main sensor instead of Sony’s in certain markets. However, both sensors are the same size, so the difference should be negligible.

Other than that, the phone is stated to feature a 13MP ISOCELL S5K3L6 ultrawide lens and the same 5MP GalaxyCore GC05A3 macro.

Aside from the better ultrawide camera, the Galaxy A57 also uses a 12MP ISOCELL S5K3LC sensor for the front camera, instead of the GalaxyCore seen on the A37. As such, if you're a selfie or wide-angle fan, then the Galaxy A57 would likely be the better choice.

What else do we know about Samsung’s next-gen mid-range phones?

Samsung Galaxy A36 review.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

At this point, rumors and leaks about the next generation of A-series phones are a bit light, but we do have some information. For instance, as noted by Android Authority, there are indications that the phones could potentially be released in February 2026, over the usual March release of the A series. However, this earlier release could be a response to the rest of the Samsung lineup, such as the Galaxy S26 series, reportedly being delayed until March.

It is also noted that the Galaxy A37 could use the Exynos 1480 chip, while the Galaxy A57 could ship with the Exynos 1680 processor. For the Galaxy A57, this would make sense, considering the Galaxy A56 launched with the Exynos 1580. However, the Galaxy A36 launched with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, so shifting to Exynos would be a big change.

That said, as noted in the original report, these configurations are still not final. It is entirely possible that Samsung could change or adapt the final configuration before the release of the phones, especially if influenced by the rising prices of components and RAM. As such, we'll have to wait and see what is announced in the coming months.

Until then, let us know what you think about the next generation of mid-range Samsung phones and what you would like to see from Samsung in 2026.


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Josh Render
Staff Writer

Josh is a staff writer for Tom's Guide and is based in the UK. He has worked for several publications but now works primarily on mobile phones. Outside of phones, he has a passion for video games, novels, and Warhammer. 

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