Xiaomi Developing Samsung’s Privacy Display Alternative for HyperOS 4

Insider Yogesh Brar reported that Xiaomi plans to introduce the Privacy Display feature as part of the HyperOS 4 update. This technology, similar to the one Samsung implemented in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, is designed to protect sensitive information from prying eyes. However, the approaches of the two companies may differ significantly.

Samsung uses a hardware solution based on Flex Magic Pixel technology, which physically alters the screen’s viewing angle through movable pixels. This allows narrowing visibility for the entire display or specific areas. Meanwhile, Xiaomi will likely rely on a software implementation, resembling BlackBerry’s Privacy Shade feature, where only a small active zone is displayed on the screen.

The software approach has its advantages: it does not require special hardware and can be deployed on existing devices via an OS update. This makes the feature accessible to more users without the need to purchase new smartphones. However, this method does not provide the same level of protection as a hardware solution and may be less convenient to use.

It is worth noting that the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s display has faced criticism for reduced brightness and eye discomfort. Xiaomi’s software implementation is unlikely to encounter such issues, as it does not affect the physical parameters of the display. However, if the company decides to introduce hardware support in the future, it could open new opportunities for enhancing privacy.