Samsung reportedly explored incorporating an iPhone-style customizable action button – specifically for camera functions – into its upcoming Galaxy S26 series, signaling a potential shift in design philosophy[[1]]. The feature, reminiscent of Apple’s recent move, would have marked a return for Samsung to dedicated camera hardware, a design element absent from its flagship phones sence the Galaxy K Zoom in 2014[[3]]. Though, current reports suggest the button was ultimately scrapped before final production, reflecting the complex decisions manufacturers face in balancing innovation and user expectation[[2]].
Samsung may have considered adding a dedicated camera button to its upcoming Galaxy S26 series, mirroring a feature recently introduced by Apple. A LinkedIn post from an individual claiming to work with a Samsung supplier reveals the company explored a button with swipe gesture support, similar to the Action button found on recent iPhone models.
The potential addition of a customizable physical button to Samsung’s flagship phones highlights the ongoing trend of manufacturers seeking to enhance user experience through tactile controls. However, recent leaked renders of the Galaxy S26 series do not show the presence of such a button, suggesting Samsung ultimately decided against including it in the final design.
It’s possible the company reevaluated the feature based on user feedback regarding the iPhone’s Action button, or determined it wasn’t a necessary addition. While leaked renders aren’t always accurate, the absence of the button in current reports suggests it’s unlikely to appear in the Galaxy S26 lineup.
Samsung isn’t the only Android manufacturer exploring this type of functionality. Following Apple’s introduction of the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro, both Oppo and Vivo have implemented similar features on their X8 and X200 Ultra series, respectively. The Vivo X200 Ultra (12GB/256GB) is currently available for $909.80 on TradingShenzhen.
Notably, none of the prominent tech leakers have mentioned a dedicated camera button for the Galaxy S26 series. This further reinforces the likelihood that, despite initial consideration, Samsung will not be including the feature in its next flagship smartphone release. The Galaxy S26 series is currently expected to launch in February 2026.
