Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly include a Privacy Display feature that dims the screen when viewed from angles, according to multiple leaks this week. The feature aims to prevent "shoulder surfing" in public spaces by restricting viewing angles to the phone's primary user.
Tech reporter Josh Skinner of SammyGuru accessed the feature's animation through Samsung's updated Tips app, spoofing a device as the upcoming flagship. The animation shows normal screen visibility when viewed head-on, but dimming from top, bottom, left, or right angles.
Privacy Display will offer both manual control and automatic activation. Users can toggle the feature through Quick Settings or configure it to activate based on specific apps, notifications, or when the phone detects crowded environments like public transit.
Samsung first referenced the feature in September 2025 within One UI 8.5 code, with additional UI elements leaking in October. The January 2026 leaks offer a detailed look at how the technology will function in practice.
The feature appears exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Samsung's premium model for 2026. Industry sources suggest it may leverage Samsung Display's Flex Magic Pixel OLED technology, though the company hasn't confirmed hardware specifics.
Privacy Display joins other rumored S26 Ultra upgrades including a 12MP 3x telephoto camera, 25W wireless charging, and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. Samsung typically debuts new technologies in its Ultra models before trickling them down to mainstream flagships.
For users handling sensitive information in public spaces, the feature could address longstanding privacy concerns about screen visibility. The automatic activation based on location or app usage represents a more sophisticated approach than basic screen protectors.
Samsung hasn't officially announced the Galaxy S26 series or confirmed Privacy Display's existence. The company typically unveils its flagship Galaxy S lineup in early 2026, with the S26 Ultra expected to launch alongside standard and Plus models.
