Apple is considering a significant change that could affect its users. The company may start charging a monthly fee for access to certain features of Apple Intelligence. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg suggests that this shift is a response to a slowdown in hardware upgrades, with Apple looking to rely more on service and subscription fees. While the exact timeline is yet to be confirmed, these changes could potentially be introduced in the coming years.
A shift towards services
Apple is exploring new ways to generate revenue as hardware improvements become less frequent. According to Gurman, the company's long-term strategy involves launching extra features under a paid subscription model. These features, potentially marketed under the name ‘Apple Intelligence+', could offer users a more comprehensive and advanced AI experience.
In this model, Apple may also receive a share of the subscription revenue from each AI partner it collaborates with. Gurman adds that a partnership with Google for Apple Intelligence is expected to be revealed later this year. This partnership could bring Google's advanced AI capabilities to Apple users, further enhancing the value of the subscription.
I am not alone in this approach
Apple is not the only tech giant considering a subscription model for AI features. Samsung has indicated that some of its Galaxy AI features will be free until the end of 2025, suggesting that Samsung might start charging for certain features in 2026.
During a recent media briefing, T.M. Roh, head of Samsung's mobile business, mentioned that customers who desire more advanced AI capabilities may be willing to pay for them. This statement hints at the possibility of Samsung introducing paid features for Galaxy AI.
Apple's move to monetize AI features reflects a broader trend in the tech industry. As companies look to maintain growth in an increasingly competitive market, they are exploring new revenue streams through subscription services, offering hope for continued innovation and advancement in the industry.
