Artificial Intelligence has become an integral part of smartphone technology, with companies like Honor integrating AI functions to enhance user experience. These functions range from simplifying tasks like accessing notifications to more complex features like detecting deepfakes in videos. However, Honor’s CEO, George Zhao, emphasizes the importance of protecting user data in the AI development process. Without data security and privacy protection, the transformative power of AI becomes meaningless.
Honor’s approach involves keeping AI operations limited to the smartphone, known as on-device AI. This stands in contrast to AI tools that rely on cloud computing for operation. While some companies, like Apple, claim to use on-device processing for AI functions, more complex requests may still tap into “server-based models.” This raises concerns about data security and privacy. Honor’s self-developed on-device AI ensures that user data remains on the device, without being stored or transferred elsewhere.
The Evolution of AI Development
Zhao points out that AI development has taken two main directions: network AI, which utilizes cloud computing for more powerful capabilities, and on-device AI, which focuses on empowering consumers within the device itself. While network AI may offer advanced features, it also raises issues regarding data security and energy usage. Honor believes that on-device AI can provide more intimate and personalized experiences for users, without compromising their data privacy.
Balancing AI capabilities with energy usage and data privacy presents a significant challenge for smartphone manufacturers. The need for large amounts of computing power for certain AI applications may exceed the capacity of a single smartphone, requiring cloud support. However, this raises concerns about the security of data transfer and storage. Zhao highlights the importance of empowering individuals through mobile end devices, rather than making them dependent on centralized systems that collect vast amounts of user data.
Recognition in the Industry
Honor’s commitment to data protection and on-device AI integration has been recognized in the industry, with their Magic V2 folding phone winning the “Best Smartphone in Asia Award” at the Shanghai MWC. The company’s dedication to innovation is evident in the upcoming release of the Magic V3, which promises to incorporate the latest AI functions to enhance user experience. By prioritizing data security and privacy, Honor sets a standard for AI development in smartphones that puts user empowerment at the forefront.
The evolving landscape of AI development in smartphones highlights the importance of data protection and privacy. Honor’s emphasis on on-device AI and user empowerment demonstrates a commitment to providing personalized experiences without compromising user data. As the industry continues to innovate, striking a balance between AI capabilities, energy efficiency, and data security will be crucial for shaping the future of smartphone technology.