Samsung, a leading tech giant, is set to revolutionize the realm of AI-powered voice assistants with a groundbreaking update to its Bixby platform. As revealed at IFA 2023 in Berlin, Samsung plans to incorporate advanced generative AI capabilities into Bixby and deploy it across all its upcoming home appliances. This strategic move aims to address Bixby’s previous underperformance compared to competitors such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
Generative AI, an advanced form of artificial intelligence utilized in tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard, empowers Bixby to comprehend complex sentences and offer information in various contextual ways. Unlike its predecessors, the new generation of Bixby-powered devices will excel at understanding intricate voice commands with multiple interpretations. Initial implementations of this enhanced Bixby are expected to appear in smartphones and tablets.
Miyoung Yoo, Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Home Appliances Division, explained that Samsung’s AI vision extends far beyond mere connectivity. The company aspires to create home appliances that not only connect seamlessly but also possess the ability to identify users’ lifestyles, learn patterns, and provide tailor-made solutions. With generative AI, Bixby will enhance communication by understanding conversational context, allowing for more organic interactions. For instance, users may soon be able to request their Bespoke Family Hub refrigerator to “draw an appropriate background” based on the weather and their mood.
In addition, Samsung is developing a lightweight version of its Tizen operating system called Tizen RT, which will be integrated into all forthcoming home appliances. While current high-end Samsung appliances operate on the full-fledged Tizen OS, a specialized Micro Processor Unit (MPU) is being created to accommodate Tizen RT and Bixby’s generative AI features. With over 15 million devices currently running on Tizen OS, the company’s commitment to advancing AI capabilities is clear.
Samsung’s integration of generative AI and the introduction of Tizen RT mark a significant milestone in the evolution of home appliances. The user experience is set to be redefined across Samsung’s range of products. As Yoo stated, “Bixby voice-based AI services will be gradually rolled out to all products from next year, with continuous research and development driving ongoing refinement.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is generative AI?
Generative AI is an advanced form of artificial intelligence that enables systems to comprehend complex sentences and provide information in multiple contextual ways. It allows for a more natural and organic form of communication.
2. How will the enhanced Bixby improve the user experience?
The enhanced Bixby will excel at understanding intricate voice commands with multiple interpretations, facilitating more intuitive and seamless interactions with home appliances. Users will be able to communicate with their devices more holistically and expect tailored solutions.
3. What is Tizen RT?
Tizen RT is a streamlined version of Samsung’s Tizen operating system. It is designed to be integrated into forthcoming home appliances, providing support for Bixby’s generative AI features.