Samsung Unveils New AI Features for Galaxy Phones

Following its May update that introduced a host of new AI tools to older Galaxy phones, Samsung is gearing up for another significant enhancement. The tech giant plans to boost the capabilities of several Galaxy devices with new camera and AI features through its upcoming One UI 6.1.1 update.

In a recent post on Samsung’s community forums, a company representative revealed that numerous new features—previously exclusive to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6—will now be available on older Galaxy models. This update will extend to a range of devices including the Galaxy S22 series, S23 series (inclusive of the S23 FE), S24 series, Flip 4, Fold 4, Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy Tab S8, and Tab S9. Notably, the Galaxy S21 series will not be included in this update, which aligns with a recurring trend of excluding older models from the latest AI enhancements.

The release schedule for this update has not been disclosed yet, but it is already available for Samsung’s newest foldable phones. The update will introduce a selection of AI-powered tools tailored to different devices. Among these features are Auto Zoom, which automatically adjusts the zoom level when it detects people or pets (available on Flip 5); Flex Camcorder, enabling the use of flex mode to shoot videos in a camcorder-like fashion (available on Flip 5); and Instant Slow-mo, which uses AI technology to add slow-motion effects to videos (available on Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Tab S9 series).

Other features include Portrait Studio, which converts photos of people into cartoon-like drawings (available on Fold 4, Flip 4, Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy S22/S23/S24 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S8/9 series); Sketch To Image, which transforms hand-drawn sketches into AI-generated images (available on Fold 4, Flip 4, Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy S22/S23/S24 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S8/9 series); and Live Effect, which generates 3D images and adds depth to 2D photos (available on Fold 4, Flip 4, Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy S22/S23/S24 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S8/9 series). Additionally, Motion Clipper creates GIFs and stickers from motion pictures (available on Fold 4, Flip 4, Z Fold 5, Flip 5, Galaxy S22/S23/S24 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S8/9 series); Overlay Translation overlays translated text directly onto the original image (available on Fold 4, Flip 4, Z Fold 5, Flip 5, Z Fold 6, Flip 6, Galaxy S22/S23/S24 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S8/9 series); and Expert RAW Support provides enhanced RAW photo capabilities (available on Galaxy S23/S24 series).

It’s important to note that the Galaxy S21 series will not receive these new AI tools, although it may still get the One UI 6.1.1 update without these specific features. This exclusion follows a pattern observed in previous Galaxy AI rollouts, where the S21 series was limited to basic updates like Circle to Search and missed out on advanced features such as generative image editing and Live Translate.

Samsung has cited compatibility issues as a primary reason for not including some older and lower-specification devices in the latest AI feature updates. This decision seems to be driven as much by business considerations as by hardware limitations.

For consumers seeking value for their money, the Galaxy S22 stands out as the optimal choice among older models. It strikes a favorable balance between cost, feature set, and the longevity of software updates. In contrast, while the Galaxy S23 series offers an even better mix of features and future-proofing, the S22 remains a solid option for those looking to save while still enjoying many of Samsung’s recent advancements.

As Samsung continues to roll out these updates, users with supported devices can look forward to a range of new AI-driven capabilities designed to enhance their smartphone experience. The introduction of these features demonstrates Samsung’s ongoing commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology across its device lineup.