Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Privacy Display Causes Some Variation in Brightness

Samsung has integrated its groundbreaking Privacy Display solution into the latest Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the technology protects users from prying eyes, some have noticed slight changes in screen brightness. The company has now admitted that “some variation” can occur under specific conditions.

Samsung responds to Galaxy S26 Ultra’s brightness concern

Based on Flex Magic Pixel (FMP) technology, Privacy Display limits screen visibility from side angles. As a result, others nearby you cannot see what’s on your phone. This comes in handy in public places like transport, offices, or cafes. Of course, the display remains bright and clear when viewed straight on. However, it may appear slightly less bright than last year’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, as noted by TechRadar.

When the outlet asked about the reason for this difference, Samsung said, “Privacy Display is designed to protect users’ privacy by providing a vivid visual experience for using the phone in normal use cases. Some variation will be seen when the phone is held at certain angles and when set to maximum brightness; however, any impact on actual usage when holding the phone should be negligible.”

That means the slight decrease in brightness is not a flaw, but a side effect of how the privacy feature works. Since the display limits visibility from off-angles, it also tweaks the light emitted in those situations. As a result, we see small variations in brightness, particularly at side angles or high brightness levels.

So, should this be a dealbreaker? Probably not. If you value privacy, the trade-off may actually be worth it. That said, there are some complaints about nausea and eye strain because of the Privacy Display, but it doesn’t appear to be a widespread issue. In our testing, we have also not experienced any such problems.

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