Apple Intelligence vs Galaxy AI: Best Smartphone AI for You

Artificial intelligence is all the buzz these days, and both Apple and Samsung have launched their own AI to enhance the features of their iPhone and Galaxy phones. 

Apple's Apple Intelligence (released in October 2024) and Samsung's Galaxy AI (available since January 2024) promise to deliver powerful and helpful tools to make smartphones smarter than ever. While they share some similarities, each has a few unique strengths that set it apart.

In this article, we'll compare Apple Intelligence vs Galaxy AI, discussing each system's current and upcoming offerings and how to use them to streamline your daily tasks. 

We'll also dive into the main differences between the two so you can decide which smartphone AI is best for your needs.  

Why Should I Use Smartphone AI?

Both Apple and Samsung tout AI in smartphones for its ability to help automate daily tasks, organize messages, improve your communications, enhance your searches, and more. 

With Apple Intelligence, your iPhone can automatically sort your photo library by recognizing faces, locations, and even specific objects. It can also generate text summaries, rewrite messages, and prioritize notifications based on context.

Galaxy AI, Samsung’s version of smartphone AI, includes tools like “Generative Edit,” which lets you quickly remove unwanted objects from photos or edit backgrounds. It also provides real-time language translation, transcription, and advanced voice control features.

These AI-powered tools can make your smartphone feel more like a personal assistant than a gadget. 

Apple Intelligence Overview

Apple Intelligence began rolling out to select iPhones in late 2024 with the release of iOS 18.1. It promised a suite of AI-powered tools designed to boost productivity and creativity across supported iPhones, iPads, and Macs. However, not all of its features were immediately available at launch, and some of the most anticipated enhancements, like a new and improved Siri, have yet to be released. 

Currently, its main features include grammar correction, image generation, text summarization, and more. While we await Apple AI’s major update to Siri, a few minor improvements are live, including  a glowing ring around the screen when Siri is active.

Apple also now provides the option to integrate ChatGPT, OpenAI’s popular AI chatbot, with Apple Intelligence. Doing so helps Siri generate more intelligent responses, understand conversational language, and assist with other complex tasks that ChatGPT specializes in. 

To protect privacy, Apple has built in several on-device security measures to ensure that much of the processing stays local and your personal data remains secure.

According to Apple, additional AI features will arrive throughout 2025 and beyond. 

While you wait for the new and improved Siri to be able to send a restaurant reservation to a friend on your behalf and read your on-screen content to you, here are some Apple Intelligence features you can enjoy right now:

‍

Writing Tools: 

• Apple Intelligence includes built-in Writing Tools that can help you draft, rewrite, and polish messages, emails, and other text. With features like Rewrite and Proofread, you can adjust tone, fix grammar mistakes, and tailor your writing for specific audiences. 
• There’s also a Summarization tool that condenses long text into a quick, easy-to-read version within supported apps.
  

Improved Photo Search and Clean Up

• One upgrade is natural language search for the Photos app, which lets you find images using descriptive phrases, like “cafe” or “pictures of mom,” making it easier to find special moments that may be buried far within your library.
• The new Clean Up feature for images lets you easily remove unwanted objects from your photos. While in the Photo Library, you can tap on an object or use your finger to highlight an area, and Apple Intelligence will use generative AI to erase it and fill in the background with new pixels.

Image Creation: 

• With Image Playground and Genmoji, you can create custom illustrated images and personalized emojis of yourself, your friends, or other objects—all by using simple text prompts.
• You also have the option to tap into ChatGPT’s image generation through Image Playground. However, it’s worth noting that the tool is limited to producing stylized illustrations, not the more realistic images ChatGPT typically generates outside of Apple’s platform.

Advanced Notification Control: 

• Managing notifications and email is made easier with features like Priority Notifications and Reduce Interruptions. These tools help keep you focused by filtering out non-essential alerts and highlighting the most important updates, like doctor appointments or upcoming meetings.

Transcription and Summarization: 

• With Apple Intelligence, you can record a phone call directly from the call screen, and a transcription of the call will be saved to the Notes app. But just a heads up — your iPhone will automatically announce that it’s recording to everyone on the line.
• You can also record meetings, lectures, or conversations using the Notes app, and Apple Intelligence will generate a full transcription along with a summary of the key points — making it easy to review what’s important at a glance.
  

Apple Intelligence is only available on newer iPhone models, including the iPhone 16 series and the upcoming iPhone 17 series. It is also available on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

If you’re looking for a deal on the most recent iPhone, check out our running list of the best iPhone 16 deals across carriers that’s updated the moment we detect a change.

Galaxy AI Overview

Galaxy AI is Samsung’s advanced AI platform designed to enhance a wide range of Galaxy devices — including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even wearables.

Originally introduced at Samsung’s Unpacked event in January 2024 alongside the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy AI has expanded in both features and device compatibility since launch.

Thanks to a partnership with Google, Galaxy AI leverages models like Gemini Pro and Imagen 2 to power features such as generative photo editing, real-time translation, and context-aware productivity tools. (Google’s newer Imagen 3 model is used in its Pixel 9 series.)

These models allow Galaxy AI to understand written and spoken commands, recognize objects in images, and even perform actions across different apps.

Samsung has confirmed that Galaxy AI features will remain free through the end of 2025, but has not yet announced plans for 2026 and beyond.

Unlike Apple Intelligence — which is limited to newer iPhones — Samsung has made modified versions of Galaxy AI compatible with many older Galaxy devices, giving users broader access to select features.

As of mid-2025, versions of Galaxy AI are available on:

• Galaxy S21 to Galaxy S25 series 
• Z Fold 5, Fold 6, and Fold 7 
• Z Flip 5, Flip 6, and Flip 7
• Galaxy Tab S8 to S10
• Galaxy Book4 Edge laptops
• Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Watch (select features only)

However, the most advanced tools are exclusive to newer models. Here’s a closer look at features that you can experience with Galaxy AI devices:

‍

Photo and Video Enhancements: 

• Instant Slow-mo lets you turn standard video clips into slow-motion video, even if you didn't shoot them at a high framerate.
• Generative Edit allows you to reposition objects, resize people, and expand backgrounds in photos, making it a versatile tool for photographers (and anyone who posts to social media). ‍
• Portrait Studio allows you to transform your portrait photos into styles that include Comic, 3D cartoon, Watercolor, and Sketch.

Productivity Tools: 

• Circle to Search allows you to search for anything on your screen by simply circling it with your finger. 
• Sketch to Image can turn hand-drawn sketches into detailed artwork or generate realistic representations of sketches drawn on photos.  
• Now Brief offers personalized summaries of events, reminders, weather information, and health insights.‍
• Now Bar is a lock screen toolbar that displays real-time information and updates.

Language and Translation Features: 

• Live Translate helps to break down language barriers by translating voice calls, face-to-face conversations, and text messages into your preferred language — all in real-time. 
• Samsung Keyboard also offers AI-powered text suggestions to help your messages match a specific tone, including Professional, Casual, and Social settings. ‍
• Chat Assist translates texts in real-time so you can carry on conversations in any language.

Magic Compose and Photomoji: 

• Magic Compose helps you write email messages and texts, which can be helpful when you're unsure how to phrase something. This feature is available on the Galaxy S24 via on-device processing and cloud processing on older devices.
• Photomoji turns objects in your pictures into custom photo buttons that you can send to friends via the Google Messages app, which can add a fun spin to your texts. 
• Generative Wallpaper allows you to make unique AI-generated backgrounds based on themes or prompts.
  

AI in the Car with Android Auto: 

• Samsung devices with Android Auto also benefit from AI updates that make driving safer and more convenient. Features like message summarization and relevant reply suggestions keep you informed without distracting you from the road.

Apple Intelligence vs Galaxy AI: Privacy

As AI technology evolves, it's sparking many conversations about personal data privacy. AI systems rely heavily on large amounts of data to learn and make accurate predictions, but this raises important questions about how that data is collected, processed, and stored — and who has access to it.

One of the biggest worries is the potential for data breaches or unauthorized access to personal information. Here’s what Apple and Samsung have said about how they plan to keep your data safe while using AI:

Apple Intelligence

Apple says it can keep your data secure when using its AI since it largely uses on-device processing, meaning data won't always have to be sent over the internet to complete a task. 

However, when data does need to be sent over the internet, Apple says Private Cloud Compute creates a "private cloud" that can keep your data secure, so much so that even Apple employees can't see it. 

The company has not confirmed whether or not there will be an option to completely turn off Apple Intelligence, though it has provided a similar option for Siri. 

Galaxy AI

Galaxy AI offers extensive AI customization options, like allowing you to choose which AI features are enabled and whether to keep your data local.

In the Settings app, Galaxy AI users can select whether they want the platform to process some or all of the data it needs on the device, minimizing the information sent to the cloud for processing. Devices like the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S25 series come equipped with Gemini Nano, an AI model to handle more on-device tasks.

However, some of Galaxy AI's more advanced tasks may require cloud processing. 

Samsung says its direct translation and Edit Suggestions features are mostly processed on the device. Many other features require a network connection to use the cloud.

Apple Intelligence vs Galaxy AI: Compatible Devices 

Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is only compatible with select Apple devices. For iPhones, it works on models that include the A17 Pro chip or later, like the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro,iPhone 16 Pro Max, and the upcoming iPhone 17 series.

‍

Apple’s AI is compatible with newer iPads and Macs equipped with M1 chips and later.

That means the standard iPhone 15, and any other iPhone made before it, does not work with Apple Intelligence. 

Galaxy AI

One of the benefits of Galaxy AI is its compatibility with many devices. While it remains exclusive to Samsung Galaxy devices, Galaxy AI is available on a range of smartphones, including the most recent Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S25 Edge.

‍

The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7,  Fold 6, Flip 6, various Galaxy Tab models, and older devices as far back as the S21 series and Galaxy Fold 3 are also supported to various extents. 

That makes Galaxy AI an extremely accessible option for users who want to hang on to their older devices instead of upgrading to use these new features. 

But if you have an older device that isn't compatible with Apple Intelligence or Galaxy AI, Navi can help. 

Our free and unbiased Phone Deal Finder below can show you the best iPhone and Samsung phone deals you qualify for based on your current trade-in and other criteria.

Apple Intelligence vs Galaxy AI: Availability and Cost

Apple Intelligence 

Apple Intelligence is already available on supported devices with the release of iOS 18.1 in late 2024. It’s currently free to use, though only accessible on select models like the iPhone 16 series and the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

While Apple hasn’t announced any pricing plans, there’s speculation that some features could eventually be part of a paid tier. For now, all available tools are free, as long as your device is compatible.

Galaxy AI 

Galaxy AI is also free on all supported Samsung devices, including the Galaxy S25, S24, and many older models. Samsung has promised that Galaxy AI features will remain free through the end of 2025, but it hasn’t confirmed what will happen after that.

If you’re considering trying Galaxy AI, now’s a great time to explore its capabilities at no extra cost.

Which AI Platform is Right for You?

Both Apple Intelligence and Galaxy AI offer impressive features that make smartphones more powerful and helpful — but they focus on slightly different strengths.

Apple Intelligence focuses on stylistic generative AI features, Siri enhancements, and privacy-first design through on-device processing. On the other hand, Galaxy AI leads in photo and video editing tools, productivity features, and real-time language translation, thanks in part to its integration with Google’s Gemini models.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Apple Intelligence Review: Pros and Cons

‍

Pros:

• Deep Integration: Seamlessly works across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
• Privacy-Focused: Prioritizes on-device processing and uses Private Cloud Compute for secure tasks.
• Generative AI Tools: Includes text rewriting, summarization, and image creation.
• Siri Improvements: Smarter, more context-aware, and capable of handling follow-up requests — though these enhancements haven’t launched yet.
• Free Access: Currently free on supported devices.

Cons:

• Limited Compatibility: Only available on newer models like iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and upcoming iPhone 17. Not supported on standard iPhone 15 or older devices.
• Gradual Rollout: Not all features are available yet — some tools will continue to roll out throughout 2025 and beyond.
• Potential Future Costs: Apple hasn’t definitively ruled out introducing a paid tier for advanced features at a future date. 

Galaxy AI Review: Pros and Cons

‍

Pros:

• Wide Range of Features: Offers robust tools for photo editing, productivity, and real-time translation.
• Google Integration: Powered by advanced Google technologies like Gemini and Imagen.
• Free Until End of 2025: All features are currently free to use, with no subscription required — yet.
• Broad Compatibility: Available on many Samsung devices, including Galaxy S22 and newer phones, tablets, foldables, and some laptops (feature availability depends on the model).
  

Cons:

• Privacy Trade-Offs: Combines on-device and cloud processing, which may raise privacy concerns for some users. Samsung says it uses safeguards to protect your data.
• Possible Future Subscription: As of mid-2025, Samsung hasn’t confirmed pricing yet, but has said AI features will no longer be free at the start of 2026.

If you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and value privacy, security, and seamless device integration, Apple Intelligence may be the better choice. Its enhanced Siri, advanced writing tools, and strong privacy protections are standout features—though it’s limited to newer Apple devices.

On the other hand, if you want a more versatile, feature-rich AI experience with powerful photo editing, language tools, and broader device compatibility, Galaxy AI offers excellent value — especially since it’s free for the rest of 2025 and powered by Google’s advanced AI models.

And don’t forget: third-party options like Google Gemini AI, Microsoft Copilot, and Meta AI are also available through apps on both platforms, giving you even more ways to explore the growing world of AI regardless of which device you own.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best AI platform for you comes down to your personal needs — and which ecosystem you’re more invested in.

Apple Intelligence and Galaxy AI represent the forefront of smartphone AI, offering powerful tools designed to simplify tasks, boost creativity, and enhance productivity. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be getting access to cutting-edge features that make your digital life smarter and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Apple Intelligence better than Samsung AI?

Apple’s AI is all about personalization and privacy, while Samsung focuses on productivity with a mix of on-device and cloud features. For now, Samsung leads in generative AI, but if you value privacy, Apple is the better pick.

Which phones are getting Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence is available on the latest iPhone 16 lineup—that's the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max models—as well as the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.

Will Apple Intelligence replace ChatGPT?

No, Apple’s AI will not replace ChatGPT, but will work alongside it. When Siri can’t handle more advanced questions or tasks, it will tap into ChatGPT to fill in the gaps. Whether generating text or creating images, Apple Intelligence will pass the job to ChatGPT when needed.