In today's tech landscape, nearly every company is rapidly developing artificial intelligence features, including those you might not expect. However, a significant challenge they face is determining how to effectively monetize AI capabilities. Companies are exploring various avenues for profit, including advertising, data collection, and direct-to-consumer subscriptions. Yet, the optimal path for generating revenue from AI remains uncertain.
When purchasing one of the best smartphones on the market, consumers often receive a plethora of AI features included in the device's price. Currently, these features are available at no additional cost. However, this may not be the case indefinitely. Industry whispers suggest that leading brands like Samsung, Nothing, and Apple might eventually place these mobile AI tools behind a paywall, raising questions about the future of AI accessibility.
As the smartphone market evolves, it seems increasingly likely that major brands will introduce subscription fees for their AI features. The real question is whether consumers will be willing to pay for services like Apple Intelligence, Galaxy AI, or Essential Space. The value proposition offered by these companies currently does not appear compelling enough to justify such expenditures.
Having tested various mobile AI suites, I can attest that many offer valuable features. For instance, I previously highlighted Nothing's Essential Space on the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro as my favorite AI feature. However, it is essential to note that this feature is currently offered for free. If Nothing decides to implement a subscription model for Essential Space, the overall value may significantly shift. A recent report from Android Authority revealed potential pricing codes suggesting that Essential Space could eventually cost around $120 per year.
In response to the rumors regarding pricing for Essential Space, Nothing stated, "No decisions have been made yet around potential pricing and our focus remains on improving the product." While the company has not confirmed or denied the speculative pricing, the indications lean towards a subscription model being in the works.
Convincing consumers to pay for mobile AI features poses a considerable challenge. A prime example is Apple Intelligence, which has struggled to attract users despite the company's marketing efforts. Apple has been actively promoting this feature through emails to Apple Account holders to boost engagement.
People are increasingly reluctant to pay for software, especially as many services adopt subscription models. Personally, while I appreciated using Essential Space for organizing my digital content, I wouldn't be inclined to pay for it. The same sentiment applies to Galaxy AI and Apple Intelligence. For a mobile AI subscription to succeed, it must offer features that extend beyond the smartphone, which is where many current offerings fall short.
In the competitive landscape of AI subscriptions, Google stands out with its Google One AI Premium service. Priced at $20 per month, it offers a comprehensive blend of mobile and desktop AI features, along with additional perks. This subscription unlocks access to Gemini Advanced, which includes live video streaming and screen sharing capabilities that are currently rolling out to users of the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25.
Google One AI Premium also provides access to the Gemini chatbot, powered by the latest Gemini 2.5 model, which excels in benchmarking against competitors. Additionally, integration with Google Workspace sets it apart from other services. The versatility of Google One AI Premium allows users to access advanced features across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers, making it an appealing option for consumers.
While paying for AI features on a single device may not seem justified, a comprehensive AI subscription that spans multiple platforms could be more enticing. Until brands like Apple, Google, and Nothing can replicate the extensive value offered by Google One AI Premium, it may be wise for them to refrain from implementing paywalls for their AI features.
