Samsung to Charge for Galaxy S24 AI Features After 2025

Samsung recently unveiled its Galaxy S24 series at the Unpacked event, showcasing three models: Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, and S24 Ultra. Surprisingly, the focus of the event shifted towards AI technology, overshadowing the new smartphones. Samsung seems to be strategically emphasizing AI to address challenges in flagship sales amid intense market competition.

A significant move in this direction involves the introduction of Galaxy AI features with a subscription-based model. While subscription services have become integral in various aspects of daily life, Samsung is applying this model to its AI features, aiming for a consistent revenue stream.

The Galaxy AI features, prominently showcased in the S24 series, will be available for free on supported devices until the conclusion of 2025. After this period, users who wish to continue utilizing these features will be required to pay a fee. The specific amount of this fee has not been disclosed at present. This subscription approach raises considerations for users who have invested in a phone, as they may face potential limitations on critical functions post-2025.

Among the highlighted Galaxy AI features are Circle to Search, enabling AI-powered quick searches by enclosing objects or text on the screen, Live Translation for real-time translation in different languages, Chat Assistant for instant translation of messages, Note Assistant for note editing and summarization, and Voice Recording Assistant for converting audio to text and identifying individual speakers. Samsung’s strategic shift towards subscription-based AI features reflects its pursuit of sustained revenue and underscores the increasing significance of AI in consumer technology.