As smartphones become increasingly predictable, major tech giants are looking towards artificial intelligence to breathe new life into mobile devices. While annual phone launches now fail to excite consumers, AI promises to drastically change the smartphone experience.
Smartphone sales have stagnated in recent years, with many holding onto their existing devices for longer. Boredem has set in as innovation plateaus and flagship devices offer few compelling reasons to upgrade. However, AI is emerging as the next big thing to make smartphones inspiring once more.
Leading manufacturers are pushing AI capabilities to the forefront. Samsung focuses on ‘Galaxy AI' features enhancing the S24 series. Simple tasks like image editing or voice translation are achieved through AI. Google touts its Pixel 8 as genuine ‘AI phones' from launch. Capabilities like automatic photo touch-ups and conversation summaries demonstrate AI's potential.
Even Motorola is adding AI flourishes to enrich the user experience on devices like the Edge 50 Pro. As AI becomes increasingly mainstream across operating systems, no brand wants to be left behind in the race. OnePlus also aims to bring Google's AI to its own phones this year.
Running AI natively rather than relying on cloud processing provides key advantages around privacy and performance. As models become efficient enough for on-device use, new features could revolutionize how consumers engage with their smartphones on a daily basis.
AI promises to personalize the interface itself. How we use our devices may change dramatically as AI is woven into core experiences. What will not change is the fundamental concept of the pocket-sized computer – it will simply be enhanced through artificial intelligence.
The impact on innovation and competition could breathe new life into a sector that has stagnated. While privacy and bias concerns warrant attention, AI may finally make smartphones exciting again if implemented seamlessly across both hardware and software. Only time will tell if AI fulfills its potential to transform the mobile experience.
