Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra hands-on: Privacy Display is the coolest innovation by far
Mashable
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces the Privacy Display, a groundbreaking feature designed to enhance screen privacy by restricting viewing angles. This innovation uses wide and narrow pixels separated by partition walls; when activated, it turns off wider pixels, making the display visible only from a narrower angle. Maximum Privacy Protection mode further intensifies this effect, rendering the screen nearly unrecognizable from wider angles.
The Privacy Display was tested during a Samsung briefing, where it demonstrated impressive results. In its standard mode, the screen appears darker from wider angles, while Maximum mode makes it almost appear turned off. Although this feature slightly reduces color vibrancy, it remains subtle and quickly becomes imperceptible for most users. The display's effectiveness in maintaining privacy without significantly impacting usability or battery life is notable.
For those concerned about privacy, the Galaxy S26 Ultra offers customizable settings to activate Privacy Display only during specific activities like entering passwords or receiving notifications. This feature can be toggled on through a simple gesture from the Quick Settings panel. Its minimal impact on display quality and battery consumption makes it an appealing choice for users prioritizing privacy without compromising on device performance.
Priced at $1,299 and available for pre-order now, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to ship on March 11. While Samsung's focus this year is heavily on AI integration, the Privacy Display stands out as a standout feature, particularly for those valuing discretion in public spaces. This innovation not only addresses a growing concern among tech users but also offers a practical solution without sacrificing device functionality.
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/25/2026