Apple And AI: Users Sceptical About Technology’s Value In Smartphones

As the year draws to a close, a new survey from SellCell has sparked fresh debate around consumer perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) in smartphones, particularly those made by tech giants like Apple and Samsung. Despite optimistic projections in previous years, findings from the recent survey reveal that a significant portion of smartphone users believe that AI features deliver little or no value to their devices.

In 2022, SellCell claimed that 40 percent of iPhone users intended to purchase the iPhone SE, a figure that many thought to be exaggerated. The following year, a similar claim was made regarding Apple’s move to incorporate USB-C ports, with 44 percent of Android users reportedly expressing interest in switching to the iPhone 15. However, these assertions have raised eyebrows, as the validity of consumer intent surveys remains questionable at best.

This skepticism is echoed in the latest survey results, which stated that 73 percent of iPhone users and a staggering 87 percent of Samsung users believe that AI features in smartphones fall short of adding significant value. The Macalope, a well-known commentator in the tech community, remarked that although survey respondents might have said these things, it’s difficult to gauge the true sentiment behind such statements. Surveys often yield peculiar claims, highlighting the randomness of consumer perception.

SellCell’s recent survey, titled “iPhone vs. Samsung AI Survey: AI Features Fall Short,” suggests that the excitement surrounding AI technologies may not translate into consumer adoption or satisfaction. According to the survey, while a noteworthy portion of iPhone users—47.6 percent—consider AI features as a “very” or “somewhat” important factor when purchasing a new phone, this perspective sharply contrasts with their reported sentiment towards the technology. Only 23.7 percent of Samsung users stated the same, indicating a pronounced disinterest in the AI capabilities available on both brands.

Interestingly, the survey also pointed to writing tools as the most recognized AI feature, with 72 percent of respondents noting familiarity with them. However, the Macalope speculates that this recognition might not equate to enthusiasm or desire for such tools. The casual acknowledgment of AI technologies might merely reflect a general awareness rather than genuine interest or usage. These insights lend credence to the notion that consumers are less thrilled about AI advancements and more wary of overpromising, underdelivering technologies.

This ambivalence towards AI can be partly attributed to the lack of substantial improvements in existing technologies, such as Apple’s Siri. Critics argue that rather than pushing forward with flashy new AI features, companies should focus on refining current offerings. The overwhelming desire for a renaissance in mobile AI features does not appear to match actual consumer anticipation.

Furthermore, an intriguing aspect of SellCell’s survey raised eyebrows: one-in-six iPhone users admitted they would consider switching brands for better AI features, but this was contextualized with a question regarding Galaxy AI features, casting doubt on the motivations behind such responses. As with previous surveys, methodology and sample size may skew perceptions of consumer intent, and a small sample size does not necessarily represent the broader market.

As 2023 winds down, it remains evident that consumer enthusiasm for AI features in smartphones is lukewarm, regardless of initial optimism from tech companies and venture capitalists. The Macalope’s view is that focusing on improvements to existing functionalities, like Siri, could ultimately see a shift in consumer sentiment about AI technology, drawing a clearer picture of what users actually value in their devices.

Undoubtedly, the dialogue surrounding AI continues, but it seems clear: the current wave of excitement surrounding AI in smartphones may not be matching consumer expectations. As we step into a new year, it will be crucial for tech brands to heed this cautionary signal from their consumer base, or risk further disillusionment among their users.

In this rapidly evolving tech landscape, understanding actual user needs and managing expectations could prove vital for both Apple and Samsung as they endeavor to innovate and introduce new AI features for their smartphone models.