Samsung to Start AI Subscription Plans for Mobile Devices Next Month
Samsung is gearing up to introduce a new AI-driven subscription plan in February, targeting users in the United States and South Korea. Unveiled at CES 2025 by Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee, this innovative plan—dubbed the “AI Subscription Club”—will enable customers to rent or subscribe to Galaxy smartphones and tablets rather than purchasing them outright.
What is the AI Subscription Club?
While the name may suggest a service focused on AI features, the “AI Subscription Club” primarily emphasizes accessibility to devices with AI-powered functionalities. The plan offers consumers the flexibility of a monthly payment system, akin to popular subscription models like Netflix or Spotify. This move aims to make high-quality Galaxy devices more affordable and accessible for a wider audience.
The subscription plan builds on the success of Samsung’s similar offering for home appliances in South Korea. Within weeks of launching, subscriptions accounted for an impressive 30% of sales at Samsung Stores. Samsung hopes to replicate this success with their Galaxy devices while broadening their ecosystem’s appeal.
Ballie Also Joins the Club
Alongside smartphones and tablets, Samsung plans to include its AI-powered companion robot, Ballie, under the AI Subscription Club banner. Ballie, designed to assist in smart home operations, will be available first in South Korea and the United States during the first half of 2025. However, the subscription option for Ballie will initially only be offered in South Korea.
Given that Ballie is Samsung’s first foray into AI-powered companion robots and is expected to carry a steep price tag, the subscription model ensures that a greater number of consumers can experience this cutting-edge technology without a significant upfront cost.
A Strategic Subscription Approach
Samsung’s subscription model could prove to be a game-changer, particularly as they continue to integrate more AI features into their product lineup. While this new approach allows consumers to test and use high-end devices with greater financial ease, it also aligns with the company’s broader commitment to AI innovation and accessibility.
Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee emphasized the strategic nature of this plan, stating, “We will apply the subscription service to Galaxy smartphones starting next month. Ballie will be introduced first in Korea and the US, and we plan to supply it as a subscription in Korea.”
This move further cements Samsung’s role as a leader in both hardware manufacturing and tech services, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI space.
Samsung’s subscription plan represents another bold step into an era where high-tech devices and services are tailored to meet the flexible needs of modern consumers.
