Samsung to Charge Monthly Fee for Some AI Features of the Galaxy S24 Series

Reports suggest that Samsung Galaxy S24 users might soon face charges for certain AI functions, particularly those in collaboration with WPS. Notices received by Samsung-authorized experience stores in China indicate that starting July 30, 2024, AI features integrated with WPS will incur charges.

Those purchasing the Galaxy S24 before the mentioned date and logging into WPS can access 180 WPS AI rights for free, valid for seven days. However, post-July 30, users will need to subscribe to continue using these AI functions. Subscription options range from 118 yuan (~$16) per year to 15 yuan (~$2) per month for continuous monthly access.

The collaboration between Samsung and WPS for AI functions heralds a new charging model, marking a shift in how these features are monetized. Interestingly, while partnerships with Meitu and Baidu didn’t prompt charging notifications, suggesting a selective approach, some AI functions independent of third-party applications remain unaffected. Samsung and WPS have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of these charging policies.

The AI features integrated into the Samsung Galaxy S24 series aim to enhance user experience, covering tasks like input, translation, recording, note-taking, and camera functionalities. Many of these functions in China are provided by domestic manufacturers such as Baidu, ensuring a tailored experience for the market.

Samsung has also introduced upgrades like Note Assist to Samsung Notes, facilitating tasks like content translation, summarization, and real-time speech-to-text transcription, thus boosting productivity and convenience for users.

While core Galaxy AI features like Live Translate remain untouched by subscription charges, it remains to be seen if Samsung will introduce such charges for server-side Galaxy AI features in the future.

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