Samsung to Launch AI Smartphone Subscription Next Month

Samsung is set to introduce a smartphone subscription program as part of its AI Subscription Club, expanding beyond smart home appliances to include Galaxy smartphones and the upcoming Ballie AI robot.

The AI Subscription Club, launched in South Korea in December for AI-powered TVs, refrigerators, and washing machines, allows users to pay for devices via a monthly plan. It's unclear whether the program will expand internationally, but Samsung may provide details at the Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22, where it will unveil the Galaxy S25 series.

Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee confirmed that the AI Subscription Club will soon support Galaxy smartphones, though subscribing is not mandatory for accessing Galaxy AI features. The company previously stated that AI capabilities will remain free at least until the end of 2025, with no confirmed timeline for future monetization.