Samsung is currently rolling out new AI features to select Galaxy devices through the One UI 6.1 update. This update was previously only available on the Galaxy S24 but is now being extended to older devices as well. The AI features included in this update are Live Translate, Circle to Search, Note Assist, and generative image editing. Devices released in 2023, such as the Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, Fold, Flip handsets, and Tab S9 series, will receive these new features, while older devices like the Galaxy S22 range will not.
Galaxy S23 owners have begun receiving notifications about the impending One UI 6.1 update. Users in countries like Romania, Belgium, and China have reported receiving emails from Samsung regarding the update. It seems that the update will be rolled out globally, with a notification from a Chinese Galaxy user indicating a release date of March 28th. However, it appears that only Galaxy S23 owners are currently receiving these notifications, while Fold 5, Flip 5, and Tab S9 owners have not been contacted yet.
The decision to provide these major AI features to older devices for free may be a strategic move by Samsung. The company may choose to charge for these features in the future, as indicated in the small print on Samsung’s website, which states that Galaxy AI features will be free until at least the end of 2025. This could be a way for Samsung to cover the cost of developing and providing AI tools, as other companies are also moving towards charging for similar features. Google, for example, recently included its paid version of Gemini with its Google One cloud storage plan.
It remains to be seen if Samsung will ultimately decide to charge for these AI features in 2025. However, if they do, it is possible that they will release more features before that deadline to make a subscription more appealing to users. The current rollout of AI features to select Galaxy devices is a significant development for Samsung and its users, as it demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to a wider range of devices. Galaxy owners can expect to receive these new AI tools in the coming days and weeks as the update continues to be rolled out globally.
Overall, Samsung’s decision to extend these AI features to older devices is likely aimed at enhancing the user experience and maintaining competitiveness in the tech market. By providing these advanced features for free initially, Samsung is building loyalty among users and ensuring that they remain at the forefront of innovation in the industry. With the promise of more features to come and the potential for a subscription model in the future, Samsung is positioning itself as a leader in AI technology on its Galaxy devices.
