One UI 8.5 Confirms Privacy Display Feature for Galaxy S26 to Prevent Shoulder Surfing
Privacy Display Aims to Protect On-Screen Information in Public Spaces
Recent discoveries within the One UI 8.5 firmware, Samsung’s upcoming operating system version, have revealed important developments surrounding the Galaxy S26, which is expected to launch in 2026. The findings point to a new privacy-focused feature designed specifically for use in public spaces, addressing a common concern among users who worry about others secretly viewing their screens on public transportation or in crowded areas. This addition represents another step forward in strengthening personal data security on Samsung smartphones.
The feature is officially called Privacy Display, with detailed explanations found inside the Tips application in One UI 8.5. Its core function is to narrow the screen’s viewing angle when seen from the sides. When enabled, people nearby will only see a darkened or blurred display, making on-screen content difficult or impossible to read. Meanwhile, the user viewing the screen directly will continue to enjoy sharp visuals and vibrant colors consistent with Samsung’s display standards.
One of Privacy Display’s key strengths lies in its accessibility and ease of use. Users can manually toggle the feature on or off through the Settings menu or activate it quickly via a shortcut in the Quick Panel. In addition, Samsung is introducing AI-powered controls under Conditions for Turning On, allowing the system to automatically activate Privacy Display when it detects that the user is in a public or crowded environment.
The system is also expected to integrate with Modes and Routines, providing greater flexibility tailored to individual lifestyles. For example, users may configure Privacy Display to turn on automatically when leaving home or work, or when launching sensitive applications such as banking apps or password entry screens. This automation helps ensure consistent privacy protection without the need for manual adjustments each time.
On the technical side, Privacy Display is rumored to work in conjunction with a new OLED panel technology known as Flex Magic Pixel from Samsung Display. This technology was first showcased at Mobile World Congress 2024 and is capable of adjusting individual pixels to control light direction with high precision. Unlike traditional privacy screen protectors, which often reduce brightness or distort colors, this approach maintains image quality while delivering advanced privacy control.
There is still speculation over whether Samsung will reserve Privacy Display exclusively for the high-end Galaxy S26 Ultra, or roll it out across the entire Galaxy S26 lineup. At present, no major competitors offer a comparable intelligent display privacy solution. If Samsung introduces this feature broadly with the Galaxy S26 series, it could further solidify the company’s reputation as a global leader in display innovation and mobile security.
Source: Sammobile
