Shanghai Daily reported on Thursday that smartphones equipped with artificial intelligence starting at around 1,000 yuan (US$140) are entering the domestic market to accelerate the spread of on-device AI capabilities in mobile devices.
ZTE-backed Nubia has launched the entry-level AI phone Xiaoniu starting at 799 yuan. It features 5G, AI capabilities in translation, chat, and content generation, and a 100-megapixel camera.
![Nubia launches affordable mobile phone with AI technology](https://obj.shine.cn/files/2024/04/11/0ba1a77a-9bf4-4771-9a65-542cc7c165be_0.jpg)
Ti Gon
The price of Nubia’s new AI phone starts from 799 yuan. The brand believes in “AI for All”.
With an “AI for All” strategy, Nubia said, “AI is revolutionizing the smartphone interaction and application ecosystem, and we strongly believe that AI should not be exclusive to flagship products.” .
Comparatively, on-device AI is featured in flagship models from brands such as Samsung and Vivo, whose prices often exceed 5,000 yuan.
Nubia also launched two other phones, the Nubia Z60 Ultra with enhanced cameras and design, and the foldable model Flip. All three models are currently on sale.
Meanwhile, Realme launched a new AI phone GT Neo6 SE with a high-brightness display screen designed by tech giant BOE. It features AI-powered eye care adaptations. This comes as no surprise since the new Realme models come with features optimized for eSports.
AI creation supports the ability to create travel plans, write and refine essays, and automatically remove strangers in photos. Prices start from 1,699 yuan and are currently on sale.
Analysts say AI will be essential in the smartphone market in 2024, and major smartphone vendors will follow this trend as the replacement of affordable AI-equipped phones accelerates.
According to International Data Corp (IDC), AI phones require powerful processors, specific designs, and customized local AI services, which will drive smartphone replacement demand.