Samsung to Debut Thinner, Brighter Display Ahead of Apple's 20th-Anniversary iPhone [Report]

Samsung will reportedly introduce a brighter, thinner display in next year's Galaxy S26 Ultra, in what industry watchers see as a direct attempt to get ahead of Apple's 20th-anniversary iPhone plans. A report from South Korea's ETNews says Samsung is preparing an OLED material upgrade and a new manufacturing technique already rumored to be coming to Apple devices in 2027.

According to the report, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will debut the 'M14' OLED material set, delivering higher light efficiency for a brighter screen and better longevity. Apple is also expected to adopt a new material set for its 2027 anniversary iPhone, as part of a push toward thinner, more efficient panels. Samsung's adoption next year would mark the first significant materials jump in three years, with the Galaxy S24 and S25 still using the older M13 set.

Samsung is also said to be bringing Color on Encapsulation (COE) technology to a bar-style flagship for the first time. COE, which eliminates the display's polarizer and integrates a color filter directly into the encapsulation layer, allows panels to be thinner and brighter. Apple is widely reported to be adopting the same technique for its 20th-anniversary iPhone in 2027, which is already expected to feature a bezel-free design.


ETNews notes the new display tech will be exclusive to Samsung's top-end S26 Ultra, which is expected to feature a 6.89-inch panel. The S26 Pro (6.66-inch) and S26 Edge (6.27-inch) will reportedly stick with the older M13 set. By limiting the upgrade to its most premium model, Samsung appears intent on positioning itself as first to market with features Apple is preparing for its milestone iPhone.

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