Artificial intelligence (AI) in modern televisions and smartphones has become a central element of marketing campaigns in recent years, often presented as a revolutionary breakthrough. For example, TV manufacturers активно promote so-called AI processors in their televisions, although in reality they are simply standard computing chips. Interestingly, processors in smartphones and laptops—often several times more powerful than those used in TVs—are not marketed as AI solutions.
In practice, the real capabilities of artificial intelligence are frequently overstated. Most devices do not contain “true” AI in the full sense of the term. What is commonly described as “intelligence” is usually the result of coordinated software algorithms, with some data processed on remote servers that collect and analyze information using specialized methods that are not directly related to genuine artificial intelligence.
Artificial Intelligence in Smartphones
If we follow marketing logic, one could argue that the “first AI” in phones appeared as early as the 2000s with the well-known T9 text input feature. By modern definitions, it might indeed be labeled artificial intelligence, though in reality it feels more amusing than groundbreaking when we recall classic push-button phones that used it.
It is important to understand that a smartphone itself does not actually contain real AI. At the device level, only limited-capability programs operate. This is especially evident in photography. Modern smartphones can produce impressive images, but this is not the work of a conscious system—it is simply the result of sophisticated image-processing tools. In some cases, photos are sent to company servers for more complex processing, yet this remains a technical procedure rather than intelligence. Nevertheless, advertising often claims that “AI” is analyzing your image, without explaining what is actually being analyzed.
Voice assistants such as Siri or Gemini create the illusion of intelligent interaction, but in reality they function by sending voice data to remote servers where analysis software runs. For example, Alexa from Amazon first appeared back in 2014, when hardly anyone was talking about artificial intelligence in consumer devices, yet today it is widely described as AI. In other words, we have witnessed the rebranding of ordinary interaction software into “AI.”
Other so-called AI features—such as performance optimization—simply allocate resources to frequently used applications and conserve battery life. These functions, while useful, have existed for years and rely on behavioral models rather than genuine learning. Security features like facial or fingerprint recognition use standard recognition algorithms, and content personalization (such as app or media recommendations) is based on straightforward analysis of user data.
In general, smartphones themselves do not possess true AI capabilities. Even today, what is presented as artificial intelligence is typically just multi-layered software built on structured algorithms. For instance, if you ask a voice assistant about tomorrow’s weather without specifying a location, the system assumes you mean your current position. It may also reference your travel patterns—for example, if you regularly commute to another city, it might provide forecasts for both places. The response may sound smart and adaptive, but it is not intelligence; it is simply the result of well-designed programming logic.
Artificial Intelligence in Televisions
In televisions, the term “AI” is emphasized even more strongly in marketing. Brands frequently promote processors labeled as AI, yet in reality televisions do not contain artificial intelligence at all.
For example, picture enhancement features such as adjusting brightness, contrast, sharpness, or color saturation according to scene content or ambient lighting are typically controlled by preset profiles. These improvements can enhance the viewing experience, but they do not indicate genuine understanding or reasoning on the part of the TV. Similarly, audio processing that optimizes sound for dialogue clarity, bass, or room acoustics is based on predefined configurations rather than intelligent analysis of the audio environment.
Content recommendations are another commonly advertised “AI” capability. These suggestions are generated from your viewing history and general usage patterns. Although they may appear personalized, they are simply the result of pattern recognition and statistical analysis, not independent decision-making.
Voice control features, which are often described as AI, function in much the same way.
Other so-called AI features in modern TVs—such as motion smoothing, upscaling low-resolution video, and dynamic power management—are also based on pre-programmed algorithms rather than real-time learning.
In short, although televisions are often marketed as “smart” devices, this is largely a matter of marketing rather than evidence of real artificial intelligence.
The Truth About Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has become a global trend, with billions of dollars being invested in it, even though no one can explain why ordinary users actually need it. In reality, artificial intelligence does not yet exist; what we have are simply multi-level programs that are good at selecting words.
You may have noticed this on the Internet when searching for unique information. Artificial intelligence can return results that appear similar to what you are looking for but are in fact completely incorrect. Such programs are effective at analyzing existing information or quickly retrieving data, but they cannot think and are prone to hallucinations. And the money invested in AI development will never be recouped.
