Samsung launched Galaxy S24 with AI features; unexpectedly extending some to older phones. Free access until 2025; future pricing uncertain. (ZDNET)
Samsung unveiled its latest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S24, during its Unpacked 2024 event today. While the new device brought no major surprises, there was unexpected news for owners of older Samsung phones, as they are set to receive some of the AI features that are a highlight of the S24.
The Galaxy S24 boasts several AI-driven features, with a notable inclusion being a generative edit feature similar to Google's Magic Editor. Other functionalities include the ability to circle information within an app for a Google search (a feature also slated for the upcoming Pixel 8), live translation, a chat assist offering various tones for written content, and transcription and summarization of voice memos.
While certain AI features are integrated directly into the S24 and require specific hardware, some are cloud-based and not processed on the device itself. To access the full range of features, users will need the latest device; however, Samsung has announced plans to extend some AI features to older devices, such as the S23 series, the S23 FE, the Z Fold 5, the Z Flip 5, and the Tab S9 series. The anticipated rollout of these features is expected before June.
The specific cloud-based features coming to older devices remain unspecified, but it is likely to include capabilities such as photo editing, mirroring Google's approach with Magic Erase. Notably, more resource-intensive features, like live phone call translation, which occur directly on the device, may not be included in the update for older models.
There is a catch to this promising development, however. Samsung has announced that these features will be available for free only until the end of 2025. The company has not clarified whether users will be charged for continued access after this date or if the features will simply become inaccessible.
Regardless of the potential limitations, having access to these acclaimed AI features for approximately a year and a half is a positive addition for existing Galaxy users. It remains to be seen whether this offering will be sufficient to entice users to upgrade or opt for subscription-based access when the complimentary period concludes.
