TLDR: Samsung has officially confirmed that its proprietary Galaxy AI features will remain free indefinitely, clarifying earlier uncertainties about potential future charges. Concurrently, Samsung Display has initiated the production of foldable OLED screens in South Korea, exclusively for Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone Fold, which is projected to launch in 2026.
Samsung has put an end to widespread speculation regarding the future pricing of its Galaxy AI features, officially announcing that its internally developed artificial intelligence functionalities will remain free of charge permanently. This definitive clarification comes after previous communications suggested a potential ‘end of 2025’ deadline for free access, which had caused considerable confusion among users.
The company, as cited by Android Police, confirmed that all Galaxy AI features pre-installed on its phones by default will continue to be available without restrictions. These include core functionalities such as Audio Eraser, Object Eraser, Note Assist, Generative Wallpapers, Live Translate, and Writing Assist. This strategic move is aimed at reinforcing Samsung’s competitive standing in the global technology market, ensuring that its unique AI offerings remain a key differentiator for its Galaxy smartphone lineup.
However, it is important to note the nuanced distinction within the broader Galaxy AI suite. While Samsung’s own innovations are guaranteed free indefinitely, some AI capabilities are powered by Google’s Gemini models. The long-term pricing for these Gemini-supported features is not entirely at Samsung’s discretion, as Google may opt to introduce fees for them in the future, similar to its existing paid Gemini Advanced tier. Despite this, Samsung assures its users of unencumbered access to its core, self-developed AI offerings.
In a significant parallel development for the burgeoning foldable device market, Samsung Display (SD) has reportedly commenced the production of foldable OLED screens at its South Korean factory, exclusively for Apple. These advanced panels are intended for Apple’s highly anticipated foldable iPhone, tentatively named the ‘iPhone Fold,’ which is projected for a September 2026 launch.
According to reports from the Korean publication ETNews, Samsung Display is in the process of establishing a dedicated production line with an impressive annual capacity of 15 million 7-inch foldable OLED panels. Apple’s initial target is to launch between 6 and 8 million foldable iPhones in 2026, with aspirations for this to become a yearly release. Despite SD’s production capacity exceeding Apple’s immediate targets, the two tech giants have reportedly entered a long-term supply agreement. This arrangement underscores Samsung Display’s likely role as Apple’s primary supplier for foldable displays well into the future, leveraging its extensive experience and leadership in mass-producing this cutting-edge technology.
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Rumors surrounding the foldable iPhone have circulated since as early as 2015, with initial speculation leaning towards a clamshell design. However, more recent reports suggest Apple is favoring a notebook-style design, akin to Samsung’s own Galaxy Z Fold 7, featuring a speculated 7.8-inch interior display. A key objective for Apple is to significantly minimize or entirely eliminate the visible folding crease, a common characteristic of current foldable devices, with Samsung reportedly assisting in this crucial engineering endeavor. This strategic partnership highlights the increasing collaboration and intense competition within the high-stakes foldable smartphone segment, as major players vie for market dominance and innovation leadership.
