Samsung Galaxy S24 Set to Feature On-Device Generative AI, Subscription Model Raises Concerns
The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 is rumored to incorporate on-device generative AI capabilities, similar to ChatGPT, according to recent reports. Although Samsung hasn’t confirmed the exact details of the generative AI experience on the device, it did express its plans to introduce an AI phone next year. This potential feature could give Samsung an advantage over Apple, as there are rumors that AI features will be included in next year’s iOS 18 update. By delivering native generative AI features to customers before Apple, Samsung could solidify its position as an innovator in this space.
While no specifics have been shared about the potential ChatGPT rival that Samsung plans to offer, recent rumors have raised concerns about the company potentially implementing a subscription model for the on-device AI features of the Galaxy S24. A well-known leaker mentioned that Samsung is actively considering the option of offering these features as a subscription service. However, this approach seems contradictory, as on-device AI processing would eliminate the need for costly cloud infrastructure. Therefore, charging users a subscription for on-device generative AI doesn’t make much sense.
One possibility is that Samsung could offer a basic ChatGPT-like service to all Galaxy S24 buyers for free, especially for AI features that can work directly on the phone. A more advanced generative AI experience, similar to ChatGPT Plus, could then require a subscription, particularly if it requires access to cloud processing for complex prompts. However, if Samsung wants to beat Apple to market with a built-in generative AI assistant for mobile phones, implementing a subscription model might hinder its potential success.
It is worth noting that Samsung relies on Google’s Android operating system and that its own voice assistant, Bixby, has not been widely embraced. This raises doubts about Samsung’s ability to develop its own generative AI technology secretly. Unlike Google, Samsung does not have the same flexibility to respond quickly to innovations in the AI space.
While some consumers may be willing to pay for a ChatGPT-like experience on Samsung phones, it is important to remember that these AI models are still works in progress. Users are essentially testing and helping these companies perfect their chatbot technologies. Therefore, passing the costs of ChatGPT-like experiences onto the consumer may not be well-received, especially considering the expectations surrounding Apple’s anticipated entry into the GPT services market.
Alternatively, Samsung could have partnered with OpenAI or another entity for generative AI access. In such a scenario, it would make more sense for Samsung to bear the costs of accessing advanced language models, rather than passing those costs onto consumers. Additionally, an alternative option could be for users to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus and utilize OpenAI’s premium generative AI on the Galaxy S24, even if it doesn’t offer a native experience.
The Galaxy S24 is rumored to be unveiled in mid-January, offering the world a glimpse into Samsung’s vision for generative AI on their devices.
