Generative AI has developed rapidly in recent years and is increasingly being integrated into everyday life – including on smartphones. This makes the technology one of the most sensational smartphone innovations of recent years.
But what does the future of this technology look like in 2025? In this article, we take a look at the current status, progress and potential innovations of the “GenAI smartphones” that lie ahead.
You can find an overview of rental equipment from the above-mentioned manufacturers at Everphone here: https://everphone.com/en/device-categories/smartphones/
What is a GenAI smartphone anyway?
Generative AI refers to technologies that are able to create new content such as text, images, videos or even music based on patterns and inputs.
On smartphones, this means that these AI models are integrated directly into mobile applications and can respond creatively to user input. The AI models therefore run natively on the devices, without data transfer and processing in the cloud.
The smart device analysts at Counterpoint Research define:
GenAI smartphones are a subset of AI smartphones that use generative AI to create original content instead of just giving pre-programmed answers or performing predefined tasks. These devices are natively powered by size-optimized AI models and have certain hardware specifications. (Source)
For example, users can use simple instructions to generate images, write complex texts or even simulate entire scenarios. The technology is based on advanced algorithms such as neural networks and uses the computing power of modern smartphones, often combined with specially developed AI chips, to deliver fast and intuitive results.
Which smartphone specs are crucial for generative AI?
Certain hardware and software specifications are essential for a smartphone to be able to use generative AI effectively.
- CPU:
A powerful processor is the heart of AI functions. Modern smartphones have SoCs (system-on-a-chip) that combine CPUs and GPUs and are specially optimized for AI applications, e.g. Apple’s A series (e.g. A17 Bionic) or the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. - AI accelerator (NPU or DSP):
In addition to the CPU/GPU, high-end smartphones have specialized chips for AI calculations. The NPU (Neural Processing Unit) executes complex AI models. The DSP (Digital Signal Processor) optimizes the processing of audio, video and image data. Examples: Apple’s Neural Engine, Google’s Tensor chip, Samsung’s Exynos AI chip. - RAM:
Generative AI requires a large amount of RAM, especially when processing images or videos. Recommended: At least 8 GB RAM, better 12-16 GB for high-end performance. - Memory (ROM):
Local AI calculations and the use of large AI models require sufficient memory. Recommended: At least 256 GB of memory, especially if data is processed locally. Devices with expandable memory (e.g. microSD) can be an advantage. - Software support (OS and updates):
The operating system and regular updates are crucial, as generative AI relies heavily on optimized software. Important: Support for AI APIs such as Core ML (Apple), TensorFlow Lite or ONNX. Recommendation: Devices with a long update guarantee (e.g. Google Pixel, Samsung Enterprise Edition, iPhones).
Other specs such as display quality, battery life and 5G are also important. High-quality cameras and LIDAR scanners improve AI applications in the field of augmented reality and image processing. A good cooling system prevents overheating during intensive AI use (“thermal management”).
When it’s running, it’s running: Generative AI transforms the smartphone from a communication device into a tool for creative and productive tasks.
Review: Generative AI on smartphones by 2024
Since 2020, generative AI has evolved from a purely desktop and cloud technology to an integral part of mobile devices. Initially, the focus was on image and text generation, for example through apps such as DALL-E or ChatGPT.
Thanks to their increasingly powerful hardware and AI-optimized chipsets (e.g. Apple’s Neural Engine or Qualcomm’s AI Engine), smartphones offered the perfect platform to make these technologies available for mobile use.
The integration of generative AI was evident in functions such as:
- Intelligent image editing: Apps could seamlessly edit photos, change backgrounds or generate completely new images.
- AI-powered communication: Voice assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant have been improved with generative AI to sound more natural and perform more complex tasks.
- Text generation and translations: From automated emails to personalized messages, text AI has become an everyday helper.
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However, its use was often dependent on a stable internet connection, as many AI models were cloud-based. This will change with new developments.
Status quo 2025: What can generative AI on smartphones do today?
In 2025, smartphones have turned into powerful AI hubs. Thanks to advances in processor architecture and energy-efficient AI accelerators, it is now possible to run many AI models directly offline. Here are the most exciting trends:
On-device AI: local processing becomes standard
The latest smartphones have chips that have been specially developed for AI applications. This allows users to use generative AI for text and image processing without having to upload data to the cloud. This not only improves speed, but also data protection.
Hyper-personalization through AI
Apps and operating systems are adapting even better to the individual needs of users thanks to generative AI. From the design of the home screen to personalized widgets and tailored suggestions for appointments or shopping lists – interaction with the smartphone is becoming increasingly intuitive.
New creative tools for everyone
Generative AI has revolutionized creative processes. With just a few commands, users can:
- Create realistic 3D models
- Composing and mixing music
- Automate video editing and processing
This enables non-experts to create professional-looking content without the need for in-depth specialist knowledge.
Voice AI on a new level
In 2025, voice assistants will be able to hold conversations in real time, recognize emotions and even adjust the mood of their users.
They are able to handle complex requests such as planning an entire vacation with flight bookings, hotel reservations and activities in a single conversation.
Future developments: What else will generative AI bring?
While we are already seeing impressive progress, the technology is only at the beginning of its potential. Here’s a look at what we can expect in the coming years:
Multimodal AI on smartphones
In the future, AI models could seamlessly combine text, images, audio and video. Imagine you describe a scene and the AI creates a realistic video with a matching soundtrack – all on your smartphone.
AI-supported collaboration in real time
In a professional context, generative AI tools could revolutionize collaboration. Teams could work together on documents that are automatically optimized by AI, or hold brainstorming sessions in which AI immediately visualizes ideas.
Sustainability and resource conservation
One exciting aspect is increasing energy efficiency. AI models are being optimized so that they consume less power, making smartphones more sustainable. At the same time, the need for large cloud data centers is reduced.
Challenges: Data protection and ethics
As promising as this development is, it also brings challenges:
- Data protection: Local processing offers more security, but it remains important to improve transparency and ensure that sensitive data is not misused.
- Potential for misuse: Generative AI can also be used for fake news, deepfakes or other manipulative content. Clear regulations and technical security measures are needed here.
The future of generative AI is mobile
2025 will be the year in which generative AI finally becomes an integral part of everyday mobile life. Smartphones are no longer just communication devices, but creative and productive tools that make our lives easier in many ways.
Whether you want to edit a photo, write texts or even realize entire video projects – the generative AI of the future offers you all the possibilities, right in your pocket.
Of course, this also applies to the job: Generative AI on company devices offers companies enormous opportunities to increase their productivity and innovative strength. Whether automated text creation, optimized data analysis or creative problem solving – this technology can make work processes significantly more efficient.
At the same time, however, it also brings challenges, for example in terms of data protection, security and responsible use. Companies should create clear guidelines for the use of generative AI on company devices in order to both exploit the potential and minimize the risks.
