Samsung has unveiled plans to significantly boost artificial intelligence capabilities across its Galaxy smartphone lineup.
The company previewed a suite of AI-powered features it calls “Galaxy AI” that will debut on devices in 2024, headlined by real-time phone call translation.
In a blog post, Samsung stated its goal is to “transform your everyday mobile experience” via AI, while maintaining its commitment to privacy and security. This underscores Samsung’s aim of making AI a core differentiating factor as smartphone innovation plateaus.
Real-Time Call Translation Powered by On-Device AI
The most intriguing capability previewed is dubbed “AI Live Translate Call.” It will provide real-time audio and text translations during phone calls made through Samsung’s native calling app.
The key detail is these translations will occur entirely on-device, without transmitting voice data to the cloud. This should alleviate privacy concerns associated with processing conversations via internet services.
Samsung says users will see text of the translated conversation appear in sync while hearing translated speech. This could vastly improve communication abilities across language barriers.
Galaxy AI Launching in 2024, Likely with S24 Smartphones
While scant on specifics, Samsung indicated its Galaxy AI enhancements will arrive in early 2024. The timing strongly implies integration with the Galaxy S24 line of premium smartphones expected to be unveiled next year.
The Galaxy S series serves as the showcase for Samsung’s latest mobile technologies. Packing AI capabilities like seamless call translation would help the S24 phones stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Samsung’s Gauss AI Also Arriving Next Year
Notably, Samsung this week demonstrated its proprietary AI system called Gauss that will power on-device experiences. Gauss is expected to be a pillar of the Galaxy AI platform rolling out in 2024.
Like Apple and Google, Samsung has invested heavily in developing its own AI that can securely run features on smartphones without cloud connectivity. Gauss may enable capabilities rivaling Google Assistant or Siri while safeguarding user privacy.
AI Becoming Key Smartphone Battlefield
As core phone functionality has largely plateaued, AI-driven features are emerging as a new arena for differentiation. Samsung is now signaling its ambition to be a leader in AI.
Google’s Pixel phones already boast AI photo editing tools like Magic Eraser. The rumored Pixel 8 may bring further enhancements. Apple is similarly dedicating vast resources to train AI models for integration into iPhones.
Even startups like Humane are entering the space with dedicated AI devices. Samsung clearly doesn’t intend to cede ground to these rivals on nascent AI capabilities.
Security and Privacy Still Paramount
However, Samsung emphasized its AI advancements will adhere to its stringent privacy standards. On-device processing avoids exposing personal data.
This contrasts with some competitors that rely more heavily on cloud connectivity, sparking concerns over data exploitation. Samsung is promising users they can enjoy utility of AI without compromising security.
More Details Coming at Unpacked 2024
While the blog post introduced the vision for Galaxy AI, specifics are still light. But Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked 2024 event, likely in February, should reveal full details on integrated AI features in the S24 lineup.
For now, Samsung is generating anticipation by promising a new era of transformative AI experiences designed entirely with users’ trust in mind. If it can deliver on this pledge, Samsung may set itself apart as an AI leader with sensitivity to growing privacy demands.
