LAS VEGAS, NV – Reports circulating from CES 2025 regarding a new “AI subscription” for Samsung Galaxy phones appear to be based on a misunderstanding, likely due to translation errors. While Samsung’s Vice Chairman, Han Jong-hee, did mention a “subscription service” for Galaxy smartphones at a recent press conference, it appears to be a financing option rather than a subscription for AI features.

According to a report from ETNews, Han Jong-hee stated, “We will apply the subscription service to Galaxy smartphones starting next month.” This was initially interpreted as a potential subscription for the company’s Galaxy AI features, especially given Samsung’s previous statement that these features would only be free until the end of 2025.

However, a deeper dive into the ETNews report, combined with clarification from reliable Samsung leaker, reveals that the “subscription” is simply an installment plan coupled with after-sales services. The offering is expected to be available in the US and Korea, coinciding with the anticipated launch of the Galaxy S25 series in February 2025.

The confusion likely stemmed from the mention of this installment plan alongside Samsung’s “Ballie” robot, which also received a mention at CES as a product that would be launching this year with enhanced AI features. The mistranslation of “Bollie” for “Ballie” further contributed to the initial misinterpretation.

It’s important to remember that when Samsung introduced Galaxy AI on the Galaxy S24 series, they did include a footnote indicating that the features would be free until the end of 2025. While this left the door open for potential future monetization, Samsung has not confirmed any concrete plans to charge for Galaxy AI features.

• Galaxy S25 Launch Date Confirmed

In related news, Samsung has officially confirmed the launch date for the Galaxy S25 series. The Unpacked event will take place on January 22nd in San Jose, California. Pre-orders will open immediately following the event, and customers can place a free reservation today to unlock a $50 credit and up to $1,200 in additional savings.