The S24 series integrates various AI features as essential components, not merely as a novelty
We might be witnessing a crucial phase in smartphone evolution, particularly with the introduction of the first ‘post-smartphone’ devices like the Humane AI pin this year. Although not apparent yet, smartphone manufacturers appear concerned about the necessity of providing on-device AI capabilities, emphasizing their importance beyond mere gimmicks.
Artificial Intelligence isn’t a recent addition to smartphones. For several years, companies have promoted AI cameras and various features. However, this was in the pre-GPT era, where AI served as an enhancement to specific functionalities. Users could easily manage without it, and they did. The true AI-centric phone emerged with the Google Pixel series, leveraging the company’s grasp of this evolving technology, particularly elevating smartphone photography. The Samsung S24 series now advances this frontier, offering a glimpse into how AI might revolutionize smartphones in the imminent future.
The S24 series introduces various AI capabilities related to photography, productivity, and language communication. While none of these features are groundbreaking, they represent evolutions of previously seen functionalities. Nevertheless, practical features like live translation during phone calls, meeting transcription and summarization, and photo editing suggestions address real-life problems and are likely to be utilized by users.
However, when I mentioned that the S24 series indicates the future direction of smartphones, I wasn’t referring to these specific features. Surprisingly, the hardware of the S24 series doesn’t differ significantly from the S23 released last year. Considering flagship smartphones already offer more power than users can fully utilize, it’s plausible to observe a shift in focus towards AI-driven software enhancements, similar to what is evident in the S24.
Interestingly, Samsung’s briefings and press materials regarding the S24 series barely delve into the processor, battery, and other specifications that have been emphasized at every launch in previous years. The primary focus is evidently on the innovative AI-led enhancements. This represents a refreshing narrative shift, with Samsung emphasizing what the phone can accomplish for users rather than delving into the technical details powering the technology in the background – a level of detail often overlooked by most users.
However, this gradual transition has been ongoing for some time. Take the Google Pixel, for example—it doesn’t feature the most powerful processors available, yet this doesn’t impede the phone’s AI capabilities. This is because high-end processors are already equipped to efficiently manage on-device AI tasks.
Another significant shift we’re witnessing is the move towards on-device processing of queries. The S24 can manage the majority of AI tasks without requiring internet access, except when engaging in generative AI. This implies users won’t experience delays in obtaining results, even on slower networks, enhancing the usability and adoption of these features. Additionally, for individuals concerned about privacy, this ensures peace of mind as their data is not vulnerable to misuse. It wouldn’t be surprising if Apple, when introducing its AI features, opts for a similar on-device processing approach.
However, companies might also be exploring the opposite end of this spectrum. If all features can be AI-enhanced and managed remotely, a basic processor, good display, and battery life may suffice for a smartphone. This could lead to the offering of more affordable smartphones, with features provided as a service layered on top. Customers stand to gain from lower pricing and the flexibility to pay for only the features they use. This concept, akin to the Chromebook model, is not entirely novel, with some recalling the short-lived Robin concept phone. In 2016, the phone was ahead of its time, but in 2024, advancements in AI could make the notion of a thin-client smartphone both feasible and appealing to a broad user base.
Nevertheless, in response to inquiries following the Galaxy S24 launch, Wonjun Choi, Executive Vice President at Mobile eXperience Business in Samsung Electronics, who leads both the Flagship Product R&D Team and the Technology Strategy Team, expressed disagreement with the thin-client rationale. He conveyed the belief that the essential features of smartphones will persist, and performance will consistently advance to adapt and sustain these crucial features, contrary to the thin-client concept.