From selfies to meeting summaries: Why AI belongs to your smartphone now

AI Appreciation Day may not be widely recognized, but it serves as a crucial reminder that artificial intelligence has transcended its traditional boundaries. Gone are the days when AI was limited to research labs or bulky laptops; now, it resides in your pocket, transforming your mobile experience. From enhancing your photos to summarizing meetings and drafting messages, AI operates seamlessly without relying on cloud connectivity. In India, a country with a vast smartphone user base and a growing digital landscape, the next evolution of AI is being developed directly on devices. Savio D’Souza, Head of Product Communications at Oppo India, highlights that India is well-positioned to revolutionize AI applications on a large scale. "The focus is shifting towards making AI not only powerful but also practical and accessible for everyone," he states. The year 2025 is poised to mark a significant leap for on-device AI, as it transitions from being cloud-dependent to a staple in everyday use. Major smartphone brands like Samsung, Google, Oppo, OnePlus, Realme, and Nothing are introducing features that function without constant internet connectivity. Users can look forward to real-time call summaries, intelligent photo editing, translation, and even creative writing, all performed locally. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy AI offers offline transcription, translation, and photo editing capabilities powered by on-device intelligence. Oppo aims to implement generative AI features for 100 million users worldwide by 2025 and boasts over 5,800 AI patents. OnePlus is also integrating "AI-first" workflows into its OxygenOS, showcasing the innovative "Plus Mind" system designed for natural-language task management. Arthur Lam, Director of OxygenOS and AI Strategy at OnePlus, notes, "Our AI foundation is deeply rooted in understanding our users' needs, enabling them to work smarter, enjoy their time, and express their true selves." India's smartphone landscape is notable for its mobile-first approach, with many users relying on their phones as primary computing devices. This makes the integration of on-device AI not just a luxury, but a vital necessity. With slower internet speeds, inconsistent connectivity, and increasing concerns over data privacy, Indian consumers are more inclined towards devices that can perform more tasks locally. According to Savio D’Souza, AI on smartphones is now capable of handling essential functions such as meeting summaries, content generation, and enhancing photography in low-light conditions—capabilities that previously required separate applications or laptops. This trend is not limited to high-end flagship devices; mid-range smartphones are also incorporating AI tools such as AI Call Assistants, AI Photo Editors, and AI image expanders, thanks to advancements in silicon technology and improved software integration. AI is evolving from a mere feature into a fundamental aspect of the smartphone experience. It is redefining the roles of assistants, cameras, translators, and editors. Unlike last year’s focus on cloud-based AI, the current emphasis is on performance, privacy, and functionality. On-device AI not only operates faster and offline but also prioritizes data security by keeping information local. This shift is prompting major manufacturers to redesign their operating systems around AI-centric applications, making AI an integral part of the mobile experience rather than just an app-based add-on.