While the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to feature only minor hardware improvements, a new report suggests the flagship will introduce a groundbreaking AI-powered privacy feature called ‘Flex Magic Pixel.’ This innovative display technology is designed to eliminate the need for physical privacy-protection films by intelligently adjusting the screen’s viewing angles on demand.
The feature, if implemented, would be a significant differentiator for Samsung’s top-end device, offering a new layer of security for users concerned about prying eyes in public spaces. This comes amid other rumors that the S26 Ultra will not receive a battery capacity upgrade, indicating a strategic shift towards software and AI-driven enhancements to improve the user experience.
How ‘Flex Magic Pixel’ Works
First showcased at the 2024 Mobile World Congress, Flex Magic Pixel technology leverages AI to control individual pixels on the OLED display. When activated, it can narrow the screen’s viewing angle, creating an effect similar to a traditional privacy filter. This means that while the user looking directly at the phone sees a clear image, anyone trying to glance from the side will see a darkened or obscured screen.
According to the report, which was spotted by tipster @Jukanlosreve, the feature will be intelligent and context-aware. For example, when a user opens a sensitive app like a banking or messaging app, the AI could automatically activate the privacy effect. This would negate the need for applying a physical privacy film, which often has the downside of permanently reducing the display’s overall brightness and visibility.
The Technology Behind the Magic: CoE is Key
The implementation of Flex Magic Pixel is reportedly linked to another advanced display technology called CoE (Color Filter on Encapsulation). CoE technology replaces the traditional polarizer layer in an OLED panel with a color filter. This allows for purer black levels and significantly improves outdoor visibility.
Industry experts believe that CoE is a necessary companion to Flex Magic Pixel. The privacy feature, by its nature, reduces the amount of light emitted at an angle. The CoE technology helps to offset this light loss, ensuring that the user still has a bright and clear viewing experience even when the privacy mode is active.
The rumor suggests that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be the first “candy bar” style smartphone to feature both Flex Magic Pixel and CoE technology. It is also speculated that the feature could make its way to Samsung’s next generation of foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
While Samsung is facing increasing competition from Chinese rivals who are innovating with advanced battery technologies, the introduction of a unique, AI-driven feature like Flex Magic Pixel shows that the company is looking to differentiate itself through smart, practical software and display innovations. As always, these are early rumors, and the final specifications could change before the official launch in early 2026.
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