Artificial intelligence (AI) in modern TVs and smartphones has become a key element of marketing campaigns, often portrayed as a revolutionary breakthrough. In practice, however, the actual capabilities of these technologies are frequently overstated. Most devices do not contain genuine AI in the full sense of the word. What is commonly referred to as “intelligence” is typically the result of software algorithms and the power of remote servers working together to optimize user experience.
Artificial intelligence in smartphones
If we follow marketing logic, one could say that the “first AI” in phones appeared back in the 2000s with the well-known T9 text input. By modern definitions, this could indeed be called artificial intelligence, but in practice, it’s more amusing than impressive when you remember push-button phones with this feature.
It’s important to understand that the phone itself does not contain true AI. At the device level, only programs with minimal memory modules run, and their capabilities are very limited. This is especially noticeable in photography. Modern smartphones produce impressive results, but this is not the work of a conscious system—it’s simply well-designed image processing tools. Sometimes photos are sent to company servers for more complex processing, but this is still a technical operation, not intelligence.
Voice assistants like Siri or Gemini create the illusion of intelligent interaction, but in reality, they function by sending voice data to remote servers, where the actual AI runs. The phone merely serves as an interface.
Other so-called “AI” features, such as performance optimization, allocate resources between frequently used apps and conserve battery life. These features, while useful, have existed for years and are based on behavioral patterns rather than true learning. Security tools, such as facial or fingerprint recognition, rely on standard recognition algorithms. Content personalization, like app or media recommendations, is based on simple user data analysis.
In general, phones themselves do not have AI capabilities. True multi-layered AI programs are highly resource-intensive and operate in the data centers of companies providing the services. Siri uses Apple servers, while Gemini relies on Google’s servers.
Artificial intelligence in TVs
In TVs the term “AI” is further emphasized in marketing. Brands often advertise AI processors, implying advanced intelligent features, but most of them rely on pre-set rules, patterns, and algorithms rather than true adaptive learning.
For example, image enhancement features such as adjusting brightness, contrast, sharpness, or color saturation based on scene content or ambient lighting are typically controlled by predefined profiles. These enhancements improve the viewing experience, but do not imply genuine understanding or reasoning on the part of the TV. Similarly, sound processing that optimizes audio for dialogue clarity, bass, or room acoustics is based on a preset configuration rather than an intelligent analysis of the sound environment.
Content recommendations are another frequently advertised “AI” feature. These suggestions are generated based on your viewing history and general usage patterns. While the results may seem personalized, they are the product of pattern recognition and statistical analysis, not autonomous decision-making.
Voice control features, often touted as AI, work similarly to smartphone assistants. When you say a command, the TV usually sends the request to cloud services such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s Bixby. The device itself does not interpret or make decisions; it simply acts as an intermediary between the user and the AI located on the server.
Other so-called AI features in modern TVs include motion smoothing, upscaling low-resolution content, and dynamic power management. These are also based on pre-programmed algorithms rather than real-time learning.
In short, although TVs are often marketed as “smart” devices, their AI is mostly software-based, supported by servers or algorithms, rather than self-aware or truly adaptive. The intelligence exists in servers and software ecosystems, not in the TV itself.
Where Technology Ends and Marketing Begins
Modern devices do contain some AI-based features, but they are usually limited to very specific tasks. They do not grow, think independently, or truly learn on their own. In most cases, AI does not invent anything new — it only processes and analyzes information that already exists.
Most “AI” functions in smartphones and TVs are simply smart algorithms designed to improve convenience and user experience, not real artificial intelligence. Manufacturers often use the term “AI” because it sounds modern and helps sell products. But behind these buzzwords is mostly normal software engineering — useful and well-made, but not something magical.
In conclusion, AI in smartphones and televisions is not a miracle breakthrough. It is mainly a set of helpful technologies meant to make devices easier and more comfortable to use. The idea of AI as something truly independent or revolutionary is mostly created by marketing, not reality.
