AI smartphones gain traction in China

As artificial intelligence is expected to inject fresh vitality into the smartphone market, more Chinese tech companies are rolling out new products to add to the recovery momentum of consumer electronics sales in the country.

Chinese tech company Oppo, for instance, unveiled its latest artificial intelligence smartphones Reno 12 series, aiming to make AI-driven convenience accessible to more users. The move came after Oppo secured the top one position in China in terms of smartphone shipments in the first quarter of 2024, according to data from the market research company TechInsights.

The new Android smartphones are capable of publishing live photos, and boast a string of AI-powered features, including automatically removing unwanted objects in photos, and AI recording summary functions.

These advancements stem from Oppo's investment into in-house large language model AndesGPT. These large AI models have significantly enhanced the fundamental functionalities of smartphones, offering a new user experience.

AI phones are the now the latest trend that all smartphone brands are eager to embrace. As AI impacts all corners of the device market, smartphones are expected to drive the AI revolution into every home, according to a report by global market consultancy International Data Corp.

IDC predicted a substantial increase in next-generation AI smartphone sales starting in 2024, forecasting 37 million units in the Chinese market, reaching 150 million by 2027.

Chen Xiaochun, the AI technology strategy director at Oppo, emphasized the role of mid-range products in accelerating the adoption of AI in the mass market. By incorporating practical AI features into the Reno12 series, priced around 2,000 yuan ($276), Oppo aims to make advanced technology practical and widely accessible, enhancing everyday user experiences, Chen said.