Samsung may launch Galaxy S27 Pro with privacy display amid rising costs

Samsung Electronics is reportedly planning to introduce a new Galaxy S27 Pro model as part of its flagship smartphone lineup, in a move that could help the company attract more customers to its premium devices and protect margins amid rising component costs.

According to a report by The Korea Herald, Samsung Display is preparing to begin manufacturing advanced OLED panels featuring built-in privacy technology for the proposed smartphone this month.

Citing display industry researcher UBI Research, the report said Samsung Display is expected to produce around 7 lakh such panels in November, ahead of the anticipated launch of the Galaxy S27 series early next year.

If introduced, the Pro model would expand Samsung's flagship range to four variants, alongside the standard, Plus and Ultra models.

The report said the Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra are expected to use Samsung Display's latest M16 OLED materials and incorporate built-in privacy technology. The standard and Plus variants, meanwhile, are expected to retain the older M14 materials and lack the feature.

The privacy display technology, first introduced with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, limits screen visibility from side angles, reducing the chances of others viewing content on the display. Unlike conventional privacy screen protectors, the feature is integrated into the display itself. Users can also activate it selectively for specific applications and notifications.

Bringing the technology to the Pro variant could give customers access to one of Samsung's advanced display features without requiring them to purchase the more expensive Ultra model.

Premium smartphones become a priority

The reported expansion comes as Samsung faces mounting pressure to improve profitability in its smartphone business.

The company's Mobile eXperience and Networks divisions reported a combined operating loss of 600 billion won (USD 447 million) in the third quarter, with higher component costs affecting financial performance.

Samsung has indicated that strengthening its flagship product mix through differentiated experiences for various customer segments will be a priority in 2027.

A four-model flagship lineup could help the company target different premium price segments and encourage customers to opt for higher-end devices.

Galaxy S27 Pro pricing expectations

The expected pricing of the new model could also position it as an alternative to the Ultra variant.

According to estimates cited by The Korea Herald, the Galaxy S27 Pro could be priced at USD 1,399, around USD 100 below the projected starting price of USD 1,499 for the Ultra model.

The standard Galaxy S27 is speculated to start at USD 999, while the Plus variant could carry a starting price of USD 1,199.

Samsung has already raised prices across its Galaxy S26 lineup amid increasing memory costs. Further price increases are also anticipated for the Galaxy S27 series.

However, Samsung has not officially confirmed the Galaxy S27 Pro, its specifications, production plans or pricing. The reported details remain speculative pending an official announcement. (ANI)