Samsung’s recent Galaxy Unpacked event wasn’t just about flashy new flagships; it marked Samsung’s AI debut with the Galaxy AI suite of AI-powered tools. These tools are part of the new One UI 6.1 software that powers the Galaxy S24 series out of the box, and is soon coming to existing devices.
As part of this expansion, it is now emerging that Samsung has plans to bring Galaxy AI features and apps to 100 million Galaxy phones this year. Currently confined to the new Galaxy S24 series, this AI-powered upgrade will soon reach millions of existing Galaxy smartphones. This expansion that targets even mid-range models signifies Samsung’s dedication to making its Galaxy AI features mainstream.
“Galaxy AI in the Galaxy S24 series is a hybrid AI using both on-device and cloud-based AI. This year, we will introduce Galaxy AI to about 100 million Galaxy smartphones for the global expansion of mobile AI,” Roh Tae-woon, president and head of the mobile business division, told reporters on the sidelines of the Galaxy Unpacked event.
Roh emphasized the hybrid nature of Galaxy AI, leveraging both on-device processing for efficiency and cloud capabilities for advanced tasks. This ensures a seamless experience even on older devices, potentially mitigating concerns about battery drain and processing durations. For instance, the Pixel 8 Pro has recorded some absurd wait times with Video Boost, an AI-powered feature that relies on cloud computing to enhance low-light videos.
The features themselves are diverse and intriguing. Circle to Search with Google lets users tap or circle anything on the screen to instantly access relevant online information. Real-time translation during calls, voice-to-text and vice versa, and AI-powered editing tools for images and videos are just a few examples. With Apple surpassing them in smartphone sales last year, Samsung is on a mission to reclaim its leadership position. Roh expressed confidence in the Galaxy S24 series’ ability to drive double-digit growth, fueled by the allure of cutting-edge AI features.
Samsung’s ambitious AI expansion plans signify a turning point in the mobile landscape. By making advanced AI features accessible to a wider range of users, they’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on smartphones and potentially shaping the future of mobile experiences.