Galaxy AI: free today, paid tomorrow? Samsung hints at paid subscription model

The biggest highlight of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Series launch was its Galaxy AI ✨ features, which add a plethora of generative AI-powered functionalities and features on top of the phone’s software.

These include on-device AI processing for accessibility features such as live translate, interpreter, circle to search, and many more.

Even AI imagery is utilized, offering features like ‘generative edits’ and ‘instant slow-mo’ that generates additional frames to simulate a slow-motion effect on a normal video while maintaining detail and quality.

Despite its impressive features, the free access to Galaxy AI will only last until the end of 2025, according to Samsung itself. This raises questions about the future of Galaxy AI once it stops being free to use.

Addressing this concern, Samsung’s mobile chief T.M. Roh hinted at a possible paid subscription for Galaxy AI that includes even more powerful features.

“According to our analysis, there are various needs for mobile AI,” Roh explained. “So, there will be consumers who will be satisfied with using the AI capabilities for free. Then there could also be customers who wish for even more powerful AI capabilities and even pay for them,” he added, indicating that Samsung will consider these factors in its future decisions.

Currently, only the Galaxy S24 trio enjoys Galaxy AI. However, aiming to reach over 100 million devices worldwide this year, Samsung will expand Galaxy AI to older Galaxy flagships like the S23 Series, S23 FE, Z Fold 5 and Flip 5, and Galaxy Tab S9 tablets.