Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra may debut with a first-of-its-kind Privacy Display, designed to stop prying eyes from peeking at your screen in public spaces.
How the feature works
According to a fresh leak of One UI 8.5, the Privacy Display limits screen visibility from side angles, making it harder for people nearby to read your private content. The system can reportedly turn on automatically in crowded environments such as buses, trains, or meetings.
Screenshots shared by leaker @achultra show customizable controls that allow users to decide:
- When the feature activates (manual or automatic)
- Which apps/content stay protected
- Whether notifications, lock screen details, or gallery photos remain hidden
Smarter privacy through detection
The leak also suggests Samsung may integrate environmental detection, so the phone adapts based on where you are — for example, switching on privacy mode when it senses a public setting.
Protecting sensitive content
If accurate, users will be able to shield:
- Lock screen info (PINs, passwords, or patterns)
- Private images in the gallery
- Notifications & picture-in-picture windows
This would make the feature particularly appealing for professionals working in shared offices or travelers using their phones in crowded spaces.
Privacy over redesigns
While Samsung hasn’t confirmed the feature, the move would align with its recent focus on quality-of-life upgrades instead of radical design shifts. With rivals emphasizing AI and cameras, a hardware-software blend of privacy could give the S26 Ultra a serious competitive edge.
The flagship is expected in 2025, and if the Privacy Display launches as leaked, it could position the Galaxy S26 Ultra as one of the most secure mainstream smartphones to date.
