Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Introduces Groundbreaking Privacy Display
The era of screen-snoopers peering over your shoulder could be coming to an end, thanks to Samsung's latest innovation. The newly unveiled Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra boasts a built-in Privacy Display that obscures the screen when viewed from the side, while maintaining crystal-clear visibility for the user. This feature is designed to combat the rising threat of shoulder surfing criminals who steal sensitive information by watching victims enter passwords or banking PINs.
How the Privacy Display Works
The display incorporates a special type of pixel that directs light straight outwards towards the user, effectively blocking anyone attempting to peek from an angle. Unlike traditional stick-on privacy filters, Samsung's integrated solution obscures the screen from all angles, not just the sides. This ensures your private data remains hidden even when switching between portrait and landscape modes. According to Samsung, this in-built technology does not reduce brightness, resolution, or battery life.
Enhanced Security Features
Users can activate the Privacy Display in various ways to suit their needs:
- Partial Screen Privacy: Automatically limits visibility for pop-up notifications or select apps, such as when entering a PIN or password.
- Maximum Privacy Protection: Completely obscures the entire screen for heightened security in public settings.
Annika Bizon, VP of Product & Marketing, Mobile Experience, Samsung UK & Ireland, stated: 'The S26 Ultra has the world's first Privacy Display on mobile which delivers protection at a pixel level, limiting what others can see from side angles while keeping your screen clear and usable. It means the next time you need to urgently view a sensitive work email or send someone some money you don't have to check who's watching.'
Social Media Reaction and Market Release
On social media, tech enthusiasts have praised the feature, with one user calling it 'straight-up spy movie level tech' and another noting, 'Finally, no more strangers reading my PIN on the train.' The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra was released yesterday as part of the new flagship S26 lineup, which also includes the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+. Pricing starts from £1,279 for the Ultra, £1,099 for the S26+, and £879 for the standard S26. Pre-orders open on February 25, with sales beginning March 11.
Key Specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
- Display: 6.9-inch QLED Dynamic AMOLED with 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate
- Weight: 214g
- Rear Cameras: 50MP ultra-wide, 200MP wide, 50MP telephoto, 10MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 12MP
- Chipset: Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy
- Battery: 5,000 mAh with up to 75% charge in 30 minutes
- Operating System: Android 16
- Water Resistance: IP68 rating, up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes