In the future, smartphone users might be required to pay for access to AI features to offset the substantial costs associated with developing and providing this technology.
The revelation came to light on Friday when a Samsung executive disclosed that the company is considering the possibility of providing artificial intelligence services through subscription models after 2025.
These services could encompass functionalities such as real-time language translations, voice transcription, and automatic text summaries.
Microsoft has introduced a new initiative by rolling out subscription-based plans for its Copilot AI chatbot, allowing users to access enhanced features and functionalities through paid subscriptions.
The announcement came days after Microsoft revealed plans to charge for access to the latest versions of its AI service, Copilot, and amid predictions that generative AI would continue to dominate headlines and technology this year.
A day after launching its first smartphone offering access to the technology Samsung executive vice-president YJ Kim commented on the company’s vision for generative AI services.
He said while AI played a large role in the Galaxy S24 range, Samsung had yet to decide whether it would charge customers to access the phone’s AI services in the future.
“Developing and upgrading our (AI) model incurs a huge cost as well as the operational costs for server or cloud-based solutions,” says Kim
“We may need to re-evaluate our different choices. However, as it stands, at least until 2025 we have decided to provide our AI features free of charge.”
Mr Kim said a decision on whether to offer some services on subscription was made difficult by the unpredictability of the technology.
“AI technology is advancing at a very rapid pace so, at this point, we cannot imagine in the future what kind of services it will provide and deliver,” he said.
Future AI possibilities encompass personalised chatbots that can emulate the owner’s voice patterns in both spoken and written interactions. Additionally, there is anticipation for an AI upgrade to Samsung’s intelligent assistant, Bixby.
This week, Microsoft introduced paid subscriptions for its Copilot AI chatbot. The Copilot Pro service, priced at $US20 ($30) per month in Australia, grants subscribers exclusive access to new technology releases, compatibility across Microsoft programs, and the utilization of advanced AI image software.
While access to the renowned AI service, Chat GPT, remains free of charge, a premium subscription option is available for US$20 a month. This premium service offers additional tools and ensures uninterrupted access during peak usage periods.
Toby Walsh, Chief Scientist at the University of New South Wales AI Institute, foresees AI technology continuing to dominate headlines in the future. He predicts the launch of new hardware and software in 2024, emphasising the technology’s critical role in driving business growth.
“It’s going to help grow the Australian economy by two-thirds by the end of this decade. An immense benefit it’s going to bring into our lives so it’s hard to see a slowing down.” he said.
Research conducted by the Tech Council of Australia in the previous year revealed that the integration of AI technology has the potential to make a significant impact on the nation’s economy.
The findings suggest that by the year 2030, AI could contribute a substantial $115 billion to the country’s overall economic output. This transformative effect would stem from the enhancement of business processes and the generation of innovative products facilitated by AI advancements.
