Reports indicate that Samsung-authorized experience stores in China have received notices about charging for certain AI functions on Samsung Galaxy S24 devices. In collaboration with WPS, AI features will incur charges after July 30, 2024, according to the notice.
Pricing:
For 7 days following the purchase of the Galaxy S24, users who log in to WPS can take advantage of 180 WPS AI rights for free. If users wish to continue using these AI functions after July 30, they will need to subscribe, with prices ranging from 118 yuan (Rs.1,400/-) per year to 15 yuan (Rs.180/-) per month.
Samsung’s collaboration with WPS for AI functions has led to this new charging model, signaling a change in how these features are monetized. In contrast, other partnerships with Baidu and Meitu did not receive similar notifications, suggesting a selective fee implementation approach. The changes do not affect some AI functions independent of third-party applications, demonstrating a nuanced approach to charging users for AI services. When asked about the charging notices, Samsung and WPS didn’t reveal anything about their charging policies.
The Galaxy AI features of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series are designed to enhance the user experience through AI-driven input, translation, recording, note-taking, and camera capabilities. In China, most AI functions are provided by domestic manufacturers such as Baidu, which contributes to a tailored experience for customers. As an example, Baidu’s domestic Wenxin large language model enables advanced call and translation functionality, intelligent summarization, and gesture-based search capabilities.
As part of Samsung Notes, Samsung has introduced new Note Assist features, which enhance productivity and convenience for users. Content can be translated, refined, summed up, and intelligently typeset using this feature. Further, the device-side AI incorporates speech-to-text transcription, multilingual translation, and speaker differentiation capabilities to facilitate efficient communication. As of now, Galaxy AI features such as Live Translate do not offer subscription-based services. At some point in the future, Samsung may decide to charge for the server-side Galaxy AI features.
