Samsung is reportedly preparing to introduce an advanced privacy-focused display feature with the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, and early details have surfaced through the One UI 8.5 beta firmware. According to reports, the new functionality is called Privacy Display and is designed to protect sensitive on-screen content from prying eyes in public spaces. The feature aims to limit screen visibility from side angles, ensuring that only the user directly facing the device can clearly view the display.
The Privacy Display option was allegedly discovered within the Samsung Tips app included in the One UI 8.5 beta build. When enabled, the feature dynamically alters the display’s brightness and clarity when viewed from the sides, making the screen appear darker or partially obscured to anyone nearby. This approach enhances privacy without requiring an external privacy screen protector, offering a built-in software and hardware-based solution.
Users are expected to be able to activate Privacy Display manually through the Settings menu or quickly toggle it from the Quick Panel. In addition, Samsung is said to be integrating this feature with its Modes and Routines system. This would allow the phone to automatically turn on the privacy screen based on predefined conditions such as location, time, or usage scenario, for example when commuting, working in public spaces, or traveling.
Reports suggest that the Privacy Display relies on Samsung Display’s Flex Magic Pixel technology, which manipulates pixel structure to control viewing angles. Due to this hardware dependency, the feature may not be available across all Galaxy S26 models. It is currently unclear whether Samsung will limit this capability exclusively to the Galaxy S26 Ultra or extend it to other variants in the lineup.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra itself is expected to launch in early 2026, possibly in February, alongside the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus models. Leaks indicate that the Ultra variant could feature a 6.9-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with peak brightness levels reaching up to 2600 nits. It is also rumored to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage.
Additional expectations include a 5000mAh battery, support for 60W fast wired charging, and a versatile quad-camera setup. With the introduction of Privacy Display, Samsung appears to be placing a strong emphasis on user security and real-world usability, especially for professionals and users who frequently handle confidential information on their smartphones.