PARIS — Samsung is set to launch an upgraded version of its voice assistant, Bixby, this year, leveraging its own artificial intelligence models. TM Roh, the head of Samsung’s mobile business, revealed this information during an interview with CNBC.
The spotlight on digital assistants has intensified following the popularity of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Roh confirmed that Samsung will be launching a further upgraded Bixby in 2024, which will use the South Korean tech giant’s proprietary large language model (LLM).
“We’re going to advance Bixby with the application of Gen AI technology,” Roh stated in Korean through a translator.
Bixby, which made its debut in 2017 alongside the Galaxy S8 smartphone, offers a variety of functions such as live translations and restaurant recommendations. One notable feature is Bixby Vision, allowing users to scan objects with their phone camera to receive relevant information about them.
In previous reports, CNBC had hinted at Samsung’s work on an upgraded Bixby. However, this recent announcement marks the first time Samsung has confirmed a specific timeline for the launch.
Generative AI (Gen AI) refers to artificial intelligence capable of creating content, including answers to questions and images. At the core of this technology is the large language model (LLM), an AI model trained on vast datasets to enable these generative capabilities.
Despite the Bixby upgrade, Samsung will continue its strategy of supporting multiple voice assistants on its devices. For instance, Google’s AI assistant remains available on Samsung’s latest products.
Roh’s confirmation of Bixby’s enhancement comes shortly after Apple announced an AI upgrade for its voice assistant, Siri. The update will allow Siri to utilize OpenAI’s ChatGPT to handle more complex queries.
The Bixby upgrade is part of Samsung’s broader initiative to incorporate AI features across its device lineup. This initiative was highlighted during the recent launch of the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, where Samsung also unveiled new AI tools aimed at encouraging consumers to upgrade to premium smartphones.
“We are reinforcing and bringing more AI capabilities to our products,” Roh emphasized. He believes that as consumers experience more AI functionalities, they will recognize the convenience and benefits, thereby driving the purchase of new products.
- Enhanced Bixby: Integration of Samsung’s proprietary LLM for advanced functionalities.
- Continued Support for Multiple Assistants: Google’s AI assistant remains available.
- AI Upgrades Across Devices: New features in the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6.
| Announcement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bixby Upgrade | Uses Samsung’s LLM for improved performance |
| Multi-Assistant Strategy | Supports Google AI assistant |
| New Device Launches | Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 |
| New AI Tools | Aimed at enhancing user experience |
Enhanced Bixby Capabilities
Samsung’s upgraded Bixby aims to leverage the company’s own large language model to deliver more sophisticated voice interactions. This development is a significant leap from the initial launch of Bixby, which was designed to perform tasks such as setting reminders and sending texts.
The introduction of generative AI into Bixby is expected to enhance its ability to understand and respond to complex user queries. By integrating AI that can generate content, Bixby will be able to provide more nuanced and contextually accurate responses.
Samsung’s approach of maintaining multiple voice assistants on its devices ensures users have the flexibility to choose their preferred AI assistant. This strategy not only enhances user experience but also aligns with the company’s commitment to providing versatile and user-friendly products.
The AI upgrade for Bixby comes in the wake of Apple’s announcement to enhance Siri with generative AI capabilities. This competitive move by Apple underscores the increasing importance of AI in voice assistants and highlights the ongoing race among tech giants to lead in AI innovation.
Samsung’s recent launch of the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 underscores its focus on integrating AI tools into its devices. These tools are designed to offer more personalized and efficient user experiences, encouraging consumers to adopt newer, more advanced smartphones.
By incorporating advanced AI features, Samsung aims to differentiate its products in a crowded market, offering unique value propositions that appeal to tech-savvy consumers.
The integration of generative AI into Bixby and other Samsung devices is poised to significantly enhance user interactions. As AI technology continues to evolve, consumers can expect more intuitive and seamless experiences, making everyday tasks simpler and more efficient. Samsung’s commitment to AI innovation indicates a strong future focus on developing more sophisticated AI capabilities. This direction aligns with broader industry trends, where AI is becoming an integral part of consumer technology.
Featured Image courtesy of The Star
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