7 Must-Have AI Features for Your Smartphone

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AI is the hot topic these days, with manufacturers racing to incorporate a plethora of AI features into their smartphones. However, not all AI functionalities are equally essential. The real question is: which AI features can genuinely streamline your tasks and enhance your smartphone experience without merely being marketing gimmicks?

### 1. Generative Photo Editing

Generative photo editing is a standout feature that many manufacturers use to flaunt their AI capabilities. While it may initially seem like a novelty, this functionality can be quite beneficial. With generative AI, you can effortlessly eliminate unwanted objects from your photos with just a few taps on your smartphone, making complex photo edits accessible even to those who aren’t Photoshop experts. You can reposition subjects or even extend the frame of an image to improve composition.

For example, I often utilize the Magic Editor on my Pixel 8 Pro to refine my photos’ framing. Additionally, generative photo editing allows you to alter images or add elements to create more captivating visuals. Beyond this, AI filters can be applied to enhance the quality of your pictures.

### 2. Quick Document Summaries

Modern AI models excel at processing text, making them perfect for rapidly summarizing lengthy emails, intricate documents, and PDFs. This feature is particularly handy on smartphones, where skimming through extensive documents can be a hassle.

I frequently rely on tools like Gemini and ChatGPT on my Android to distill legal documents, asking them to flag any unusual or unfair terms. If you handle a significant amount of paperwork daily, AI can dramatically accelerate your workflow.

### 3. Real-Time Call Translation

One of the most valuable AI features available on smartphones is real-time call translation. Samsung users can leverage Galaxy AI to converse with individuals in different languages. This feature translates what your call partner says into your preferred language as the conversation progresses and vice versa.

What’s even better is that real-time call translation works seamlessly with traditional phone calls and VoIP services like WhatsApp and Teams. If you travel frequently, this feature could prove invaluable. Live translation is a remarkable example of how AI can enhance everyday communication.

### 4. Smart Notification and Email Management

An essential AI feature for smartphones is the ability to prioritize important notifications and emails. On iPhones, the Mail app efficiently categorizes and surfaces crucial emails at the top of your inbox. This AI-driven functionality is invaluable for managing a crowded inbox, especially when you’re busy.

Apple’s Intelligent Focus mode can also reduce distractions by only alerting you about notifications that require immediate attention. Given the daily influx of notifications from various apps, this is an excellent way to leverage AI for a more organized and peaceful work environment.

### 5. Writing Assistance

AI has a knack for understanding and processing natural language, making it incredibly useful for refining your email drafts, work documents, or class notes. This capability is especially handy on smartphones, where typing out longer texts can be cumbersome.

I often use ChatGPT and Gemini to craft emails. I provide a few key points, and they handle the rest. Once you start using AI to assist in composing or polishing your emails, it becomes hard to imagine going back to manual writing.

On iPhones, Apple’s Writing Assist feature simplifies email composition and allows you to modify the tone of your writing. Android users can achieve similar results by utilizing apps like Gemini and ChatGPT.

### 6. Conversational Voice Assistants

AI voice features like ChatGPT’s Voice mode and Gemini Live allow for more organic conversations with chatbots. These tools are particularly useful on smartphones, serving as a resource for research or gathering information on various topics.

For instance, I recently used Gemini Live on my Xiaomi 14 Ultra as a virtual tour guide during my visit to the Amber Palace in Jaipur, sharing insights about its rich history and significant landmarks. Students can use these voice assistants to brainstorm project ideas or study for tests. Engaging in dialogue to understand complex subjects using Gemini Live proves to be both effective and enjoyable.

### 7. Natural Language Search

AI’s ability to comprehend human language enhances search capabilities on smartphones. On iPhones, the Photos app in iOS 18.1 supports natural language search, assisting users in locating specific images and videos. Upcoming versions will extend this functionality to Apple Music and Apple TV.

This natural language support showcases AI’s potential to improve everyday smartphone interactions rather than just serve as flashy features.

### 8. Image Generation

Apart from editing photos, smartphones can also generate images and customized emojis swiftly through AI. Google’s Pixel Studio app on their new Pixel phones and similar apps like Image Playground or Genmoji on iPhones allow users to create unique visuals.

I often whip up AI-generated images to send personalized wishes to friends during special occasions. If you host events or parties frequently, an AI image generator can help you create invites with a personal touch. While this functionality may not be vital, it certainly adds a dash of creativity to your conversations.

In summary, while the excitement around AI features is understandable, we’re still in the early days of truly integrating AI into smartphones. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative and practical features to enhance our mobile experiences.