Baskadia

Samsung's recent unveiling of the Galaxy S24 showcased a significant focus on the Galaxy AI brand. However, there's a catch – these Galaxy AI features are set to be free only until next year, leaving many users curious about Samsung's strategy post-2025. In a recent media briefing, Samsung Mobile President TM Roh shed light on the company's approach beyond 2025.

Roh covered various topics, including Samsung's future plans for the Indian market, during the media briefing. When questioned about the free availability of Galaxy AI features until 2025, Roh expressed that Samsung hasn't finalized its post-2025 plans.

Of particular interest is Roh's mention of introducing "more powerful AI capabilities" for users willing to pay. Recognizing that some smartphone users are content with free AI attributes, Roh emphasized a consideration of diverse consumer needs in future decisions. His statement is as follows:

"According to our analysis, there are various needs for mobile AI. So, there will be consumers who will be satisfied with using the AI capabilities for free. Then there could also be customers who wish for even more powerful AI capabilities, and even pay for them. So, in the future decision making, we will take all these factors into consideration," shared TM Roh, President, Samsung Mobile.

The specific Galaxy AI features covered under the free tier remain uncertain. However, the statement suggests Samsung might offer some features for free. The decision on which features to retain is eagerly awaited, with Galaxy S24 owners hoping for the inclusion of AI-based camera tricks.

There's speculation that Samsung might opt to charge for AI features that heavily utilize its cloud infrastructure. Yet, given the company's apparent uncertainty about post-2025 plans, a definitive answer may not be imminent.

Another notable point from the briefing is Samsung's commitment to bringing Galaxy AI features to 100 million devices in the current year. While the reference is presumed to be Galaxy smartphones and tablets, it's noteworthy that home appliances showcased at CES won't carry the Galaxy AI branding but may incorporate AI in some capacity.

The goal of reaching 100 million devices doesn't seem overly ambitious, considering the expected uptake of Galaxy S23 models and the Galaxy Z Fold 5/Flip 5, both set to integrate Galaxy AI capabilities within the first half of the year. However, the limitation of Galaxy AI capabilities to flagship phones and tablets launched in 2023 and beyond means earlier models like the Galaxy S22 will miss out.