We’ve all been there. You’re on a crowded train, trying to send a private text, and you can feel the person next to you reading every word. Samsung thinks it has a solution.
At this week’s Unpacked event, the tech giant showed off the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the usual speed boosts and camera upgrades are there, the real talk of the show is the new Privacy Display. It is a feature that feels long overdue for anyone who values their personal space.
Your screen is for your eyes only
The Privacy Display is exactly what it sounds like. It uses a new layer in the glass that limits the viewing angle. If you’re looking at it head-on, it’s crystal clear. But if someone tries to peek from the side, the screen looks dark or distorted.
It’s a clever move. Most of us buy cheap privacy screen protectors that make our expensive displays look muddy. Samsung is building that protection directly into the hardware this time around. You get to keep that sharp resolution without sharing your bank balance with the entire bus.
What else is under the hood of the S26 Ultra?
Beyond the screen, the S26 Ultra feels like a more refined version of what we already love. It’s thinner and lighter, which is a relief for anyone who is tired of the heavy feel of previous models. The camera sensor has seen another bump, specifically for low-light shots.
Samsung also leaned heavily into AI features that actually feel useful. One new tool can summarize a long voice memo while you’re still recording it. It’s fast, snappy, and doesn’t feel like a gimmick designed just to check a box.
New sound for your ears
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro also made an appearance. They look a bit different this year, with a more angular design that helps them stay put during a workout. Here is what stands out:
- Improved active noise cancellation that targets high-pitched sounds
- A longer battery life that gets you through an entire workday
- Better integration for quick switching between your phone and tablet
The sound quality is punchy. Samsung is clearly trying to win over the listeners who usually lean toward more expensive boutique brands. The combination of better fit and smarter noise blocking makes them a strong contender.
It is clear that Samsung is focusing on the way we actually use our devices in public. It isn’t just about more megapixels anymore. It is about making sure your phone works for you—and only you.