If Your Smartphone Doesn't Have AI, It's Not Smart

 

AI has become the defining technology in modern smartphones. It's not just about raw performance or shiny displays anymore. Today, it’s how smart the phone really is that matters, and that intelligence comes from AI. Whether it's using a camera that knows what you're trying to capture, a battery that understands your daily routine, or a voice assistant that actually helps, AI is what separates a basic smartphone from a true powerhouse. So, if you're in the market for a new phone, let me walk you through the AI features of three of the biggest flagships of the year: the Samsung Galaxy S24, Google Pixel 9, and Apple iPhone 16.

AI Features in the Samsung Galaxy S24, Google Pixel 9, and Apple iPhone 16

Which Phone Should You Pick Based on AI Features?

Now, let me share my personal experience from researching these phones. I’m someone who relies on a smartphone to do a little bit of everything—work, photography, staying organized, and general life stuff. So, understanding the AI features of each device is a big deal for me.

Google Pixel 9 – The Camera Champion

If you’re someone who takes a lot of photos, Google Pixel 9 might be the one for you. Its AI-powered camera features, like Magic Eraser and Real Tone, aren’t just gimmicks—they're genuinely useful. Imagine being able to erase unwanted photobombers from your photos or getting skin tones that are accurate and look natural. Also, Google’s AI Super Res Zoom is brilliant. I took a few zoomed-in shots on the Pixel 8 before, and you wouldn’t believe the detail it captures without losing quality. I expect the Pixel 9 to be even better. Plus, with Google's expertise in natural language processing, Google Assistant is by far the smartest and most useful out there. It doesn’t just follow commands—it predicts what I might want next based on my day-to-day behavior.

Apple iPhone 16 – AR and Ecosystem Mastery

Apple’s AI is something to talk about too, especially if you’re into AR (Augmented Reality) or already living in the Apple ecosystem. The ARKit framework, combined with the LiDAR sensor, creates some of the most interactive and accurate AR experiences I’ve seen. Think about better gaming, interior design, or AR-based learning experiences. And with iOS 17’s AI learning your habits, Siri becomes much more intuitive. The AI-driven battery management is also a great perk—it learns your habits and charging patterns, meaning that the battery lasts longer over time.

However, what stands out about Apple is its ability to create a seamless experience across its devices. If you’ve got a MacBook, iPad, or Apple Watch, the way the AI syncs your preferences across these devices feels like you’re living in the future. For me, it's a big deal because it adds convenience and personalization that’s hard to beat.

Samsung Galaxy S24 – Balanced AI Experience

Then there’s Samsung Galaxy S24, which offers a little bit of everything. Its AI-driven camera is great, with features like Scene Optimizer that automatically adjusts settings depending on what you’re capturing. But, I think Samsung's real strength is in multitasking. If you're like me, always juggling between apps for work, Samsung’s DeX Mode, powered by AI, optimizes the entire process. You can turn your phone into a desktop experience, and the AI keeps things running smoothly, whether you’re working on spreadsheets or presenting slides.

I also love how Bixby learns from your habits. It suggests routines like "Good Morning" mode, where it shows you your calendar, weather, and news at a glance. It’s these little personal touches that make the Samsung S24 feel like it knows me better every day. The AI battery optimization is also solid, making sure you get the most out of each charge by learning how you use the phone over time.

Final Thoughts: AI Powers Your Decision

In conclusion, each phone has strong AI capabilities, but it depends on what you prioritize. If you're someone who loves photography and getting a powerful voice assistant, Google Pixel 9 might be your best bet. If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and enjoy AR features, the iPhone 16 will serve you incredibly well. And if you want a well-rounded experience, especially for multitasking and getting personalized AI-driven recommendations, Samsung Galaxy S24 won’t disappoint.

Choosing your next smartphone should come down to how smart you need it to be, and that means paying attention to its AI. After all, in 2024, if your smartphone doesn’t have AI, it’s not really smart.