Samsung has launched a new generation of Galaxy AI features embedded directly on its smartphones, combining cutting‑edge intelligence with enhanced privacy safeguards. Designed to rival Apple Intelligence and Google Gemini, Galaxy AI now performs tasks such as voice‑to‑text, photo editing, call transcription and real‑time translation entirely on device—only resorting to anonymised cloud support for complex jobs, thus protecting personal data.
At the heart of this shift is the Personal Data Engine, a secure module introduced with the S25 series that learns user habits and preferences to deliver highly personalised assistance—such as the Now Brief daily rundown and Smart Suggestions—without sharing sensitive information externally. Complementing the PDE is Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection, an isolated security layer that ensures each AI‑enabled app accesses only its own data, stored in a vaulted environment that’s encrypted and separate from other processes.
Audio Eraser and Call Transcript have been flagship examples of the new architecture: both process audio entirely on the handset, eliminating background noise or summarising conversations without any cloud dependency. Samsung’s internal benchmarks suggest on‑device responses are faster than their cloud‑based counterparts—reducing latency and boosting usability.
When AI tasks demand greater computing power, Galaxy AI deploys a Hybrid Shield model. In such cases—exemplified by real‑time translation during phone calls—Samsung first strips identifying information before sending the request to the cloud. That ensures user privacy remains uncompromised.
To fortify overall security, the latest One UI 8 update introduces a suite of protections: Kee protects AI services; Knox Matrix centrally monitors and logs threats, and Secure Wi‑Fi adopts quantum‑resistant encryption to safeguard data transmissions. Enhanced Theft Protection, Identity Check and Security Delay features are also included to prevent unauthorised access in emergencies.
Galaxy Unpacked unveiled this secure intelligence framework alongside its Z Fold 7, Flip 7 and the fan‑edition Flip 7 FE, all shipping with Android 16 and One UI 8. The new foldables also support expanded Gemini-powered features—devised in collaboration with Google—such as Circle to Search’s AI Mode and Gemini Live chat, accessible on Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 Flex Window interfaces.
Samsung corporate VP Jay Kim reaffirmed the firm’s conviction that smartphones will remain the focal point in an AI-driven ecosystem that includes wearables, rings and future AR glasses. The balance between on‑device and cloud intelligence is a strategic choice intended for sustained evolution, not just headline gimmickry.
While analysts note the shift towards local AI mirrors Apple’s approach under Apple Intelligence, Samsung’s hybrid system leverages a partnership with Google Gemini and Qualcomm to ensure peak performance and tight privacy controls. Competitive observers expect this strategy to appeal to privacy-conscious consumers who want smart technology without surveillance trade‑offs.
Galaxy AI is free to use on supported devices—including the S25, S24 and selected Z Fold/Flip models—through the end of 2025, with plans to later extend compatibility to older flagships like the S23, Flip 5 and Tab S9 series. Samsung has clarified that no feature‑unlock payments are expected, reinforcing its commitment to open access and privacy.
Early adopters and reviewers highlight the seamless integration of AI tools across native and third‑party apps—such as WhatsApp—without undermining speed or data safety. The on‑device AI approach prevents metadata from ever leaving the phone, and users maintain full control over whether specific data is kept on their device, used in the cloud or permanently deleted.
Privacy advocates note that Samsung’s implementation aligns with global AI ethics standards, ensuring no data is used for model training or profiling without explicit consent. The incorporation of post‑quantum encryption into Secure Wi‑Fi underscores the company’s long‑term vision for security resilience.
Samsung’s Galaxy AI represents a bold statement in the AI race. By embedding intelligence directly in the phone while building robust privacy shields, the company aims to redefine the expectations of mobile assistance. Age‑verified encryption, granular user control and hybrid processing are at the core of this strategy, which is set to unfold in consumer hands starting July and through the remainder of the year.