Samsung’s biannual Galaxy Unpacked event is renowned for showcasing cutting-edge mobile hardware, but this year’s spectacle in San Jose, California, took an unexpected turn. Instead of flashy new devices stealing the limelight, it was the software that emerged as the star of the show. Powering the highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra is Galaxy AI, a comprehensive term encapsulating a myriad of smart features making their debut in these handsets.
Galaxy AI and Google’s Gemini AI Model: What sets the Galaxy S24 series apart is the incorporation of Galaxy AI, a sophisticated amalgamation of on-device capabilities, powered by Gemini Nano, and cloud-based functionalities, driven by Gemini Pro. Notably, Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence model plays a pivotal role in many of these features, creating a synergy between Samsung’s hardware and Google’s AI prowess. This move is reminiscent of Google’s strategy to dominate the search landscape by being the default option, now extended to leveraging Android for a broader AI influence.
Galaxy Ring: A Novel Product Category: In a surprising move, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Ring, marking a new product category for the tech giant. While details remain scant, the smart ring is set to integrate closely with the Samsung Health app, offering a wealth of health-related features. This venture into the world of smart rings follows a trend initiated by companies like Oura and Ultrahuman Ring Air, reflecting a growing interest in wearable technology beyond traditional smartwatches.
Galaxy AI in Action: Diving into the functionalities of Galaxy AI, users can expect a seamless blend of on-device and cloud-based AI experiences. The presence of a star icon on the screen signifies the availability of special AI functions. One notable feature demonstrated at the event is the starry Call Assist button. During a phone call, users can tap into this function to experience real-time translation, akin to the Universal Translator from Star Trek. Supporting 13 languages, this feature enables users to have fluid conversations across language barriers. In a live demo, a conversation between a Samsung employee speaking Korean and the user understanding English showcased the potential of this translation feature, making communication across languages more accessible.
Samsung’s shift towards prioritizing software innovations over hardware at the Galaxy Unpacked 2024 event signals a new era for the tech giant. The integration of Galaxy AI, powered in part by Google’s Gemini AI model, introduces a range of intelligent features, enhancing the overall user experience. With the introduction of the Galaxy Ring and its integration with the Samsung Health app, Samsung is venturing into novel product categories, further diversifying its offerings in the tech ecosystem. As Galaxy AI continues to evolve, users can anticipate a future where software advancements play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Samsung devices.
