Samsung Electronics plans to sharply expand its use of Google’s Gemini across its phones this year, a move that could shift power in the AI race. The company’s co-CEO said the number of Samsung mobile devices with Gemini-powered features will double in 2026. The plan positions Google to gain ground against rivals competing to supply core AI models to smartphone makers.
“Samsung Electronics plans to double this year the number of its mobile devices with AI features powered by Google’s Gemini,” its co-CEO said, adding the shift “would give the U.S. firm an edge over rivals as the global race in artificial intelligence hots up.”
The remarks point to a tighter alignment between the world’s largest smartphone maker and Google. They also signal growing demand for on-device and cloud-linked AI tools in mainstream handsets.
Background: AI Becomes a Selling Point
Samsung has leaned into AI features since launching Galaxy AI with the Galaxy S24 line in early 2024. Many tools, including writing assistance, image editing, and real-time translation, tap Google’s Gemini models alongside Samsung’s own software.
Circle to Search, co-developed with Google, became one of the most visible additions. Live Translate for calls and messaging also featured prominently in marketing campaigns. These features helped differentiate new devices during a slow recovery in global phone sales.
Google introduced Gemini as its general-purpose family of AI models in late 2023. Since then it has pushed deeper into Android, offering multimodal functions and on-device variants designed for mobile hardware.
What the Expansion Means
Doubling the number of Samsung devices using Gemini suggests wider rollout across both premium and mid-tier lines. It would increase the installed base for Google’s AI and reinforce Android’s appeal against Apple’s iPhone lineup, which is integrating Apple Intelligence.
Analysts say broader support could speed consumer adoption by making AI features standard rather than niche. It may also help carriers promote upgrades by tying AI tools to 5G plans and cloud services.
For Samsung, the strategy could lift average selling prices if AI-enabled models command stronger demand. It may also deepen technical collaboration with Google across software updates, privacy controls, and app integrations.
How It Could Reshape Competition
The decision could give Google an advantage over model providers vying for mobile distribution. That includes companies offering AI assistants, image generators, and translation engines on Android devices.
Rivals must now secure comparable partnerships or risk losing default placement on popular phones. Apple’s tie-up with OpenAI for some features adds pressure across the sector.
For consumers, the immediate impact is more consistent access to features like translation, voice assistance, and smart photo tools across price points.
Key Questions on Privacy and Cost
Greater use of AI on mobile raises questions about data handling and transparency. Samsung and Google have promoted on-device processing for some tasks to reduce data transfers to the cloud.
However, advanced features may still rely on servers, which could increase operating costs. Pricing models for premium AI services, if any, are still being tested across the industry.
- Which features will run on device versus in the cloud?
- Will AI tools remain free or move to paid tiers?
- How will updates reach older Samsung models?
Voices From the Companies
The co-CEO framed the expansion as a way to keep pace with demand and strengthen a key partnership with a U.S. tech leader. The statement highlighted the competitive stakes as AI use spreads across phones.
“[This] would give the U.S. firm an edge over rivals as the global race in artificial intelligence hots up.”
The message signals that distribution, not just model quality, now shapes who leads in mobile AI.
What to Watch Next
Product launch calendars will show how fast these plans turn into market reality. Look for Samsung to add Gemini-powered tools to midrange Galaxy A models and refreshed foldables.
Developers will watch for expanded APIs that connect Gemini features to third-party apps. Carriers may bundle AI perks, such as translation minutes or cloud editing, with new contracts.
If the rollout lands smoothly, Google could see stronger usage data and brand reach on Android. Competitors will likely answer with their own alliances and features.
The takeaway is clear. Samsung’s move could set a new baseline for AI on smartphones, making advanced features routine and raising the stakes for every player in mobile.
Kirstie a technology news reporter at DevX. She reports on emerging technologies and startups waiting to skyrocket.
