Image Credits - Japan Today
Samsung, a key competitor to Apple in the smartphone market, has unveiled its next-generation flagship Galaxy S24 lineup, signalling a significant shift toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into mobile devices. The introduction of an array of AI-powered features aims to reshape the technology landscape, promising users a transformative experience and enhanced capabilities.
The Galaxy S24 lineup, set to hit stores on January 31, boasts various AI innovations, including live translation during phone calls in multiple languages and dialects. Samsung’s collaboration with Google brings advanced features like ‘Circle To Search,’ allowing users to highlight and search for text snippets, images, or videos using a digital stylus or finger.
Pricing for the Galaxy S24 Ultra reflects the increased focus on AI, with a $100 (8%) rise to $1,300. The Galaxy S24 Plus maintains a price of $1,000, while the basic Galaxy S24 starts at $800. The devices aim to offer users more than just conventional smartphone functionalities by leveraging the power of AI.
One noteworthy feature is the ability to manipulate specific parts of photos taken with the device, presenting both a creative tool and a potential concern for image manipulation. Google initiated a similar AI-driven push for Pixel phones, introducing the ability to alter photo appearances, emphasizing the growing trend of infusing AI into smartphone capabilities.
Google’s Circle To Search, now available on the Galaxy S24 lineup, allows users to circle text or images for instant search results, adding a new dimension to information retrieval. However, the efficacy of such features may be prone to inaccuracies, as acknowledged by Google executives.
The increasing integration of AI into smartphones reflects a broader industry trend, with Microsoft-backed startup OpenAI making waves with its ChatGPT bot in 2023. As smartphones become more intelligent, the implications on productivity, creativity, and privacy are expected to be substantial.
Samsung’s early adoption of AI features positions the company ahead in the race to make technology more ubiquitous. Although Samsung lost its title as the world’s largest smartphone seller to Apple in 2023, this strategic move could help the company regain its competitive edge.
The pervasive use of AI in smartphones raises questions about privacy, with concerns about devices potentially listening to users. Samsung aims to address these worries by emphasizing that AI features can be kept on the device, and user activity will be safeguarded by the “Samsung Knox” security.