Samsung has introduced an exciting new feature for their latest devices – an artificial intelligence assistant called Galaxy AI. This handy virtual helper debuted on the new S24 smartphone line and was unveiled last month.
Galaxy AI aims to make daily tasks easier through predictive suggestions and responding to voice commands. It can open apps, set reminders, find photos, play music, and more based on your routine and preferences.
While Samsung touted this AI tool during the S24 launch, they have confirmed Galaxy AI will expand to other models, too. However, S22 owners may be disappointed to learn their devices are not slated to receive the upgrade.
For now, Galaxy AI remains exclusive to Samsung’s newest premium releases. Given the promise of smart features like learning user behavior and personalized recommendation algorithms, existing Samsung phone owners may find themselves eyeing an S24 upgrade to access this virtual assistant.
Yet, we can expect Galaxy AI to roll out more widely across Samsung mobile devices and tablets over time. The company aims to bring its version of smartphone AI to wider audiences in the years ahead.
What is Galaxy AI?
The standout features of the Galaxy S24 are powered by Galaxy AI, an artificial intelligence suite offering advanced functionalities like real-time translation, generative image editing, and transcription and summarization of voice recordings. These features are part of the One UI 6.1 update; however, they have specific hardware requirements that exclude some older devices from eligibility.
Devices that will Receive Galaxy AI
- Galaxy S23
- Galaxy S23 FE
- Galaxy Z Flip 5
- Galaxy Z Fold 5
- Galaxy Tab S9
All these models were launched in 2023 and belong to Samsung’s premium segment. According to TM Roh, Samsung’s President and Global Leader of Mobile experience, Galaxy AI utilizes a hybrid technology, with some processing done in the cloud and some done locally.
This places additional demands on the devices, particularly in the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) part, a key focus for premium models.
Why are other models left out?
Certain Samsung devices, especially some intermediate and premium models, do not receive the Galaxy AI update because of hardware specifications. Meanwhile, the A-line, considered intermediate, may not meet the expected level of performance; even some premium models are excluded.
The notable omission is that the Galaxy S22 line launched in 2022 uses the Exynos 2200 processor, the same as the Galaxy S23 FE (included in the update list).
In an interview with TechRadar, Patrick Chomet, Samsung’s Head of Consumer Experience, mentioned that “for now, we are limiting Galaxy AI to last generation devices,” disappointing Galaxy S22 owners.
Will Galaxy AI be paid?
Consumers were confused about the possibility of Samsung charging for the AI suite from 2026. Initially, the company mentioned on its official website that “Galaxy AI features will be delivered free of charge until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices,” but later deleted the post.
In response, Samsung emphasized that it has no plans for extra charges for the Galaxy AI.
