Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra adds smart side-view privacy screen

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Samsung has revealed new details about a privacy-focused display feature coming to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, introducing what it describes as a “new layer of privacy” for smartphone users. The company recently shared a demonstration video showing how the technology protects on-screen content from unwanted side glances without reducing visibility for the device owner.

The feature, referred to as a Zero-peeking privacy mode, can make the entire display appear black when viewed from an angle. Unlike traditional privacy filters that dim or blur screens for everyone, Samsung’s approach maintains full clarity when viewed directly while blocking off-angle visibility. This aims to help users protect sensitive information in public spaces such as transit, offices, and cafes.

One of the most notable aspects of the technology is its per-pixel control capability. Instead of limiting protection to the full display, the phone can selectively obscure specific content areas. For example, notifications containing private messages or personal data can be hidden from side viewers while the rest of the screen remains visible. This selective privacy functionality represents a significant upgrade over existing solutions on many laptops and mobile devices.

Users will also have flexibility in how the feature operates. The privacy mode can be manually enabled or disabled, or it can activate automatically based on context, such as when the device detects outdoor usage or crowded environments.

According to industry reports, Apple is exploring similar privacy display technology for future MacBooks, potentially arriving later in the decade. While some existing laptops offer related features — including HP Sure View and Lenovo PrivacyGuard — those solutions typically apply privacy protection across the entire screen rather than targeting specific content areas.

Samsung is expected to officially unveil the Galaxy S26 series on February 25. The new privacy display feature is anticipated to be one of the flagship upgrades, highlighting the company’s continued focus on security and user control in mobile technology.