Samsung will launch a subscription service for smartphones next month.
Samsung aims for users to subscribe for their smartphones.
Samsung is in the final stages of launching a paid subscription service related to its artificial intelligence-powered smartphones, although this new approach may differ from what many anticipated. According to recent information, Han Jong-hee, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, has confirmed that the AI Subscription Club, which started operating last December for some home appliances in South Korea, will soon expand to Galaxy phones and the AI robot Ballie that is currently in development.
The launch of the subscription service for Galaxy phones is expected next month. Additionally, it has been announced that Ballie will initially be presented in South Korea and the United States, and it will be offered under a subscription model in South Korea. Five years after its initial presentation, Samsung reveals that Ballie will be ready for launch in 2025.
It's important to note that this new subscription will not be necessary to access the artificial intelligence features of Samsung's phones and other devices, which will remain available for free to users at least until the end of 2025, although what happens afterward is still unconfirmed. Currently, this subscription model allows consumers in South Korea to choose to pay monthly for services related to their smart appliances, such as televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines, including the option to receive additional repair and maintenance services, thereby enabling a lower initial cost.
It has not been specified whether this subscription model will expand beyond South Korea, but more announcements are expected regarding this at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, which will take place in San Jose, California, on January 22, where the Galaxy S25 series is expected to be unveiled.