Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature a built-in privacy display that blocks side-angle viewing, according to leaker Ahmed Qwaider who tested the device. The "Privacy Display" technology, based on Samsung's Flex Magic Pixel concept shown at MWC 2024, makes screens appear completely black when viewed from the side.
Qwaider called the privacy feature "the most important selling point" after testing both the S26 Ultra and its display technology. He reported being impressed with the implementation, noting it doesn't reduce screen quality or colors even at maximum brightness settings.
The technology automatically shields displays from prying eyes when activated, appearing nearly black to anyone viewing from adjacent angles. Users can reportedly configure it to activate only with specific apps like WhatsApp or banking software, providing targeted privacy protection.
Samsung's privacy display addresses common complaints about third-party screen protectors, which typically reduce brightness and clarity. Tom's Guide phones editor John Velasco tested similar privacy protectors on iPhone 17 Pro last November and found they dimmed screens and created blurriness.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra will debut Samsung's new M14 OLED panel with hardware-based privacy features and reduced power consumption. This represents one of the few substantial upgrades in the S26 series, as the S26+ model reportedly retains the same 6.66-inch display as its predecessor.
Samsung plans to announce the S26 series on February 25 with a March retail release. The Galaxy S26 will feature Samsung's Exynos 2600 chip with an 8 percent graphics boost, narrowing the performance gap with Qualcomm. Production priorities show the company focusing on the Ultra model, scheduling 3.6 million units compared to just 700,000 for the base model and 600,000 for the Plus variant.
Camera improvements include wider apertures for two rear lenses. The 50MP 5x telephoto camera aperture increases from f/3.4 to at least f/2.9, while the 200MP main camera jumps from f/1.7 to f/1.4 for better low-light performance. The Galaxy S26 may also add a lag-free 24MP camera mode for better quality photos.
The S26+ model faces minimal changes after Samsung scrapped plans for a Galaxy S26 Edge replacement in late October. Industry sources cited by Korea's The Elec indicate the middle model will use essentially the same display as the S25 Plus due to compressed development timelines.
Privacy display functionality could extend beyond simple on-off switching. Samsung may implement AI-powered environmental detection that automatically activates the feature in crowded spaces like airports or public transportation, according to the company's 2024 technology demonstrations. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta already adds AI weather effects to lock screens, showing the company's continued investment in AI features.
Pricing remains uncertain with conflicting rumors about potential increases. Some reports suggest Samsung will maintain current pricing in U.S. and U.K. markets, while others indicate possible hikes that could push the Ultra model above $1,400.
The privacy display represents Samsung's attempt to differentiate its flagship amid increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers dominating camera performance rankings. While the S26 Ultra may not feature revolutionary design changes, the built-in privacy technology offers practical innovation for security-conscious users. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta also upgrades the Linux kernel for performance gains, further enhancing the user experience.
