Samsung Will Charge Fee for the Galaxy AI Features in 2025
The upcoming Galaxy S24 phones are set to introduce innovative generative AI capabilities, some of which operate directly on the device, eliminating the need for cloud processing. However, many Galaxy AI features rely on cloud connectivity, as revealed in a briefing from Samsung.
Initially, Samsung assured users that there would be no charges for these advanced AI features, despite the inherent costs associated with generative AI. Yet, recent developments suggest a change in this stance. The Galaxy S24 web pages unveiled that free access to Galaxy AI might have an expiration date, possibly starting in late 2025, as indicated in Samsung’s footnotes.
TM Roh, the head of Samsung’s mobile division, emphasized that while no final decision has been made, Galaxy AI may no longer remain free in the future. This shift in strategy aligns with the significant role played by R&D centers in India in developing Galaxy AI, with plans to extend this technology to 100 million devices by the end of the year.
Roh clarified that despite the considerable resources and costs involved in providing AI features, Galaxy AI will continue to be free until 2025. However, considering the diverse needs for mobile AI, Samsung is contemplating different approaches for the future. Some users may be content with free AI capabilities, while others may be willing to pay for more powerful features.
Contrary to my earlier speculation about potential price increases for the Galaxy S24 due to AI charges, rumors proved inaccurate. The price structure for the Galaxy S24 aligns with the Galaxy S23 series, with only the Galaxy S24 Ultra experiencing a slight price increase. It remains uncertain how Samsung will implement charges for the Galaxy AI suite; possibilities include direct fees or a subscription service for advanced features.
Although some speculated that Samsung might consider charging for Galaxy AI due to its use of cloud resources, the situation is nuanced. Some features, like Circle to Search, are Google Search AI components, while Baidu’s AI will power Galaxy S24 units sold in China. This diversity in AI sources complicates the prospect of charging users for Galaxy AI, as it is not entirely Samsung’s proprietary technology.