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3 biggest Galaxy S26 display rumors — here’s everything I’m excited about

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Brighter screen, privacy feature, thinner bezels, and more

Streaming on a Galaxy S25 Ultra
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)
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Usually, I’m all about camera upgrades when new phones launch, but I feel differently about the impending Galaxy S26. We’re only a few weeks away from the next Unpacked event — where we’ll likely get our first look at the new lineup — and I’m genuinely intrigued by the display rumors circulating.

While leaks point to the usual iterative upgrades, I’m especially eager to see what comes to fruition with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Reports suggest it’s getting a brand-new panel and a clever 'Privacy Display' feature that I haven't encountered before in all my years of testing the best phones.

However, my excitement isn’t reserved solely for the Ultra. I’ll also be sharing some big display rumors for the standard Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus.

Galaxy S26 displays: specifications

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Row 0 - Cell 0

Galaxy S26

Galaxy S26 Plus

Galaxy S26 Ultra

Screen Size

6.3 inches

6.7 inches

6.9 inches

Resolution

FHD+

QHD+

QHD+

Refresh Rate

1-120Hz

1-120Hz

1-120Hz

Peak Brightness Rating

2,600 nits

2,600 nits

2,600 nits

M14 OLED panel

Streaming video on iPhone 17 Pro Max, Galaxy S25 Ultra and Pixel 10 Pro XL

(Image credit: Future)

Out of the three rumored new phones, the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be getting the most upgrades with its display. Most notable, it’s reportedly going to be using Samsung’s new M14 OLED panel — which should bring improved clarity and brightness.

This new 6.9-inch panel is expected to reach a peak brightness of 2,600 nits according to a specs leak of the lineup. Given how rivals like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pixel 10 Pro XL have brighter screens than the current Galaxy S25 Ultra, this would be a boost to get the Galaxy S26 Ultra to the same level. And if that’s not enough, this new panel will also use third-generation anti-reflective glass to reduce glare.

I know very well what these new upgrades could mean for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, especially after I tested the displays between the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Galaxy S25 Ultra not that long ago.

Flex Magic privacy display

Gif animation reportedly showing Galaxy S26 Ultra Privacy Display feature.

(Image credit: SammyGuru)

The bigger feature I’m stoked about — which is allegedly coming to the Galaxy S26 Ultra — is a new “Flex Magic” feature that essentially acts as a privacy shield. It appears very similar to the privacy screen protectors you can install on a phone to block visibility from the sides, but this would be a native feature on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which is a big deal.

Samsung hinted at this in a recent press release, but the privacy screen feature was also accidentally revealed through code within a leaked One UI 8.5 build. What makes it even handier is that it can be manually toggled, meaning it wouldn’t adversely affect the display’s brightness the way traditional privacy screen protectors do. Turn it on when you need it, turn it off when you don’t.

Larger displays for the S26 and S26 Plus

Galaxy S26 Plus render

(Image credit: OnLeaks / Android Headlines)

Finally, I’m excited about the potential for larger displays on the Galaxy S26 lineup. While leaked renders make it difficult to discern a size difference from the 6.2-inch AMOLED panel featured on the Galaxy S25, leaked specs suggest a change is coming.

It appears Samsung is upgrading the standard Galaxy S26 to a 6.3-inch display, making the compact flagship just a smidge larger than its predecessor.

As for the Galaxy S26 Plus? Early rumors hinted at a jump from 6.7 inches to a massive 6.9 inches. While subsequent leaks suggest it may remain at 6.7 inches, I’m still holding out hope for that size increase to give it that Ultra size without the Ultra cost.

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John Velasco
John Velasco
Senior Channel Editor for Phones

John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.

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