Samsung’s AI Expansion Strategy
Samsung Electronics plans to double the number of its mobile devices featuring “Galaxy AI” capabilities this year, largely driven by Google’s Gemini model. This move will give Google an edge over its competitors as the global race for artificial intelligence (AI) intensifies.
Background on Samsung and its AI Initiatives
Samsung, a leading South Korean electronics company, has been integrating AI features backed by Gemini into approximately 400 million mobile products, including smartphones and tablets, last year. The company now aims to expand this number to 800 million by 2026.
Samsung’s CEO T.M. Roh on AI Integration
In his first interview since becoming co-CEO of Samsung Electronics in November, T.M. Roh stated, “We will apply AI to all products, functions, and services as soon as possible.”
Samsung’s Competitive Landscape and AI Goals
Samsung’s plan to boost its AI capabilities will significantly benefit Google, which is in a fierce competition with OpenAI and others to attract more consumer users to their AI models. The company seeks to regain its lost crown in the smartphone market from Apple and defend against Chinese competitors in mobile phones, TVs, and home appliances, all under Roh’s supervision.
AI Race: Google vs. OpenAI
Google released the latest version of Gemini in November, highlighting its superior performance over popular industry metrics compared to other AI models.
In response, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman issued an “internal red alert,” pausing non-essential projects and redirecting teams to accelerate AI model development. Shortly after, the company behind ChatGPT launched its GPT-5.2 AI model.
Rapid Adoption of Galaxy AI
Roh anticipates rapid adoption of AI, as Samsung’s brand awareness surveys for Galaxy AI have risen from around 30% to 80% in just one year.
Key Functions of Galaxy AI
Galaxy AI refers to Samsung’s suite of AI features, including those powered by Google’s Gemini model and Samsung’s own Bixby for various tasks.
While search is the most commonly used AI feature on smartphones, consumers also frequently use image editing and productivity tools, as well as translation and summarization functions.
Market Impact
Samsung’s stock rose by 7.5% on Monday, driven by expected fourth-quarter profit growth, fueled by a global chip shortage.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Samsung’s AI strategy? Samsung plans to double the number of its mobile devices with “Galaxy AI” capabilities by 2026, leveraging Google’s Gemini model.
- Why is this important for Samsung? This move will give Google an edge over competitors in the global AI race and help Samsung regain its lost market share from Apple.
- What are the key AI features in Galaxy AI? Galaxy AI includes various features powered by Google’s Gemini and Samsung’s Bixby, such as search, image editing tools, translation, and summarization.
- How will this impact the market? Samsung’s increased focus on AI could strengthen its position against competitors like Apple and help it defend against Chinese rivals in multiple product categories.
