Privacy Screen for Xiaomi 18 Pro: Is a New Trend Emerging in the Industry?
Protected displays from prying eyes could be the most sought-after feature of the next generation, following their debut with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Xiaomi has started testing a next-generation 2K panel intended for the 18 Pro model, specifically designed to obscure sensitive content from side observers. This is a move to address users' security needs, who are increasingly at risk of visual theft of sensitive data in public settings.
According to information shared by informants Digital Chat Station and Smart Pikachu, the Chinese giant aims to introduce technology that combines physical components and software optimizations with the goal of safeguarding messages, passwords, and personal details by limiting the screen's viewing angle. The effectiveness of this solution will be measured in real-life use, where users can consult private information without fear of being watched. The Xiaomi 18 range, expected to debut in September, will also maintain the characteristic concept of a second rear display, while introducing significant new features in the main hardware.
200 Megapixel Camera and AI for Xiaomi 18 Pro
The specifications of the Chinese flagship promise to minimize the necessary compromises on the multimedia front. The new screens will have corners with a greater curvature radius than the previous generation, a true 2K resolution, and higher peak brightness. On the back, there will be a custom 200 megapixel LOFIC main camera, designed to capture detailed images in all lighting conditions. On the software front, the phones will run the proprietary interface HyperOS 4, characterized by a fresh aesthetic inspired by light and AI functions accessible via a dedicated physical button.
The push for visual privacy is not exclusive to Xiaomi. Samsung has already paved the way by introducing a similar hardware filter on its Galaxy S26 Ultra and is now planning to extend it to other models. Samsung initially considered restructuring the S26 range to replace the Plus variant with a Pro model, only to later backtrack and maintain traditional naming. With the upcoming Galaxy S27 family, expected in early 2027, the plan seems back on track: the Galaxy S27 Pro will use a 6.47-inch screen, smaller than the 6.7 inches of the old Plus, equipped with the same privacy filter as the current Ultra.
The flagship Galaxy S27 Ultra will also clearly adopt the same solution on a 6.89-inch 2K display. Samsung's technology will remain an exclusive as - according to some unofficial rumors - it seems the giant has no intention, at least for now, of providing this type of panels to competing manufacturers. This decision would thus exclude Apple, which sources its displays for iPhones from Samsung's display division.
The remaining specifications of the Galaxy S27 Pro include a 5,000 mAh battery and a rear camera system with three sensors, mirroring the Ultra model's configuration but adopting a different telephoto lens. It remains to be seen whether this strategic choice regarding displays will lead the entire industry towards a new market trend for the end user.