Galaxy S25 Ultra spotted testing Virtual Reflector camera tool from S26 Ultra
A leaked internal One UI 9 build on the Galaxy S25 Ultra shows Samsung testing Virtual Reflector, a software tool that brightens backlit subjects without overexposing the background. The feature originally launched on the Galaxy S26 Ultra and is being tested through Samsung's Expert RAW app, letting users adjust reflector color, reflectance, and light direction. Samsung has not confirmed a One UI 9 beta rollout for the S25 series, so the feature's inclusion remains unconfirmed.
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This suggests Samsung may be backporting flagship-exclusive camera software to last year's device rather than reserving it purely as a hardware-tied selling point for the newer model. If confirmed, it could set a precedent for how Samsung distributes AI-driven camera features across device generations, affecting upgrade incentives and competitive pressure from other Android makers.
- Virtual Reflector simulates a physical photography reflector to brighten shadowed subjects digitally.
- The tool was first introduced on the Galaxy S26 Ultra before appearing on a leaked S25 Ultra build.
- Samsung has not confirmed whether the feature will officially reach the S25 Ultra via One UI 9.
Neewer 43-inch 5-in-1 Light Reflector — Before Samsung's Virtual Reflector fakes it in software, you can do the real thing: this collapsible disc bounces sunlight back onto a backlit subject so faces stay bright without nuking the background. It folds into a small pouch, so it's easy to bring along for phone portraits and video shoots alike.
See Neewer 43-inch 5-in-1 Light Reflector on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: androidauthority.com, 2026-08-24
Published there as: “Galaxy S26 Ultra’s portrait lighting trick could be coming to the S25 Ultra”
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