Samsung Solved Screen Snooping with Galaxy S26 Ultra Privacy Display

Samsung is doubling down on everyday privacy with its upcoming flagship, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, introducing a built-in Privacy Display feature designed for people who regularly use their phones in public spaces. Official teasers confirm the device will be unveiled on February 25, and this new display technology is shaping up to be one of the most practical upgrades in years.

Privacy Display works by limiting screen visibility from side angles. When viewed head-on, content remains crisp and vibrant, but from the sides the screen appears dark or unreadable. The effect is similar to a privacy screen protector, except it is integrated directly into the display hardware. This means users get privacy only when they want it, without permanently dimming the screen or distorting colors.

Samsung’s teaser videos lean heavily into real-world scenarios. One clip shows a commuter reading private content on public transport and instantly activating Privacy Display when they notice someone nearby glancing over. From that moment on, only the user can clearly see the screen, while everyone else sees little more than a blacked-out panel. Samsung has previously teased private chat protection, but this time the focus is clearly on lifestyle use in crowded environments.

Unlike traditional privacy films, Privacy Display can be toggled on or off through Quick Settings. Users can also configure it to activate automatically in sensitive situations, such as banking apps, password entry screens, or secure messages. There are even indications that parts of the display can be selectively hidden, for example masking notification previews while keeping the rest of the screen visible.

This feature is made possible through new display hardware from Samsung Display combined with software tuning in One UI 8.5, allowing precise control over pixel light direction. Because it is not a physical filter, the Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel retains its visual quality when Privacy Display is turned off. Rumors suggest peak brightness could reach up to 3,000 nits, ensuring strong visibility even in bright environments.

Early reports indicate that Privacy Display may be exclusive to the Ultra model, reinforcing its position as Samsung’s premium productivity-focused device. Alongside this feature, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to ship with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a 200MP main camera, and a starting price estimated around €1,469.

For users who frequently work on the go, commute daily, or simply value digital privacy, the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be addressing a real and often overlooked problem. No more tilting the phone away, lowering brightness, or awkwardly shielding the screen with a hand. With Privacy Display built in, personal content finally stays personal, even in the most crowded places.