Samsung to Launch AI Subscription Service for Galaxy Smartphones

Samsung is set to extend its AI Subscription Club to its Galaxy smartphones and the upcoming Ballie AI robot. Following the success of its AI-powered home appliances subscription model launched in December in South Korea, the tech giant aims to offer consumers an affordable monthly payment option instead of hefty upfront costs.

Han Jong-hee, the Vice Chair of Samsung Electronics, has revealed that the AI subscription service is set to launch for Galaxy smartphones next month. The Ballie AI robot, initially unveiled five years ago, is set to debut as part of a subscription service in both South Korea and the United States.

He made it clear that accessing Galaxy AI features will not require a subscription to the service. Samsung has pledged to maintain these features at no cost for all users until the end of 2025, while plans remain unclear.

South Korean customers can currently subscribe to AI-powered TVs, refrigerators, and washing machines through the AI Subscription Club. In return for a reduced initial purchase price, subscribers may take advantage of optional repair and maintenance services.

Although it’s yet unknown how the subscription model would operate for smartphones and Ballie, it may provide comparable advantages like improved AI functions or device maintenance.

Samsung has not yet disclosed if the AI Subscription Club would be available for smartphones or Ballie outside of South Korea. However, more information could be available during the Galaxy “Unpacked event”, which is scheduled for January 22 in San Jose, California.

Samsung is anticipated to introduce the Galaxy S25 series during the event, which may provide a preview of how the subscription model would work with its top products.