The iPhone, that device launched in 2007, marked a turning point in the history of technology. The smartphone, in its basic form, has become an extension of ourselves, an inseparable companion for communication, entertainment, work... And, despite attempts to find a disruptive replacement, almost 20 years later, the smartphone remains firmly on its throne.
Why? The answer isn't simple. It's not that alternatives haven't been sought. From smartwatches and glasses with limited capabilities to AI-based devices like the legendary—and, it seems, ephemeral—DualView AI, companies have tried to convince us that we need something new. And while some technologies promise advancements, they have yet to eclipse the smartphone in people's daily lives.
Recently, even the promise of a collaboration between Jonny Ive and OpenAI generated expectations. And in China's vibrant tech ecosystem, competition has also begun to ramp up. Companies like LightSail, born out of Xiaomi's tech experience, are undoubtedly investigating in the hope of finding that innovative solution. But for now, these are rumors and speculation rather than tangible results.
The truth is that, in the battle for the future, China is placing significant emphasis on the development of smart devices, particularly eyewear. But the smartglasses market, so far, doesn't look like it will overtake the smartphone's dominance. The simplicity, accessibility, and intuitiveness of the smartphone remain unsurpassed for the vast majority of users.
The simplicity of the smartphone, with its familiar apps, intuitive interface, and ubiquity, has given it an insurmountable advantage. The idea of a new glasses-based interface or device for the same purpose, despite the AI capabilities it could potentially include, still fails to overcome the ease of use and familiarity of the smartphone experience.
A few months ago, I read about DualView AI, a smartphone with two screens: a smaller one on top for the AI interface, and a smaller one below for apps. The concept sounded promising, but ultimately fell through. What happened? Perhaps the progress wasn't as expected, the technical complexity proved insurmountable, or market acceptance proved lacking. Hard to know.
The reality is that, in the complex race for innovation, expectations or announcements aren't always met. And today, there are already many phones with built-in AI features, and more will continue to do so in the future.
The truth is that today's mid-range smartphones have reached a level of functionality and power that is quite surprising. Their reasonably affordable price meets most users' needs. And with each passing day, their speed, power, and resolution capabilities improve, and therefore, they integrate more AI capabilities every day. The process of continuous improvement in hardware and software continues.
The curiosity for a truly revolutionary device to replace the smartphone remains. Will such an invention be just around the corner? Time, as always, will tell the final word. But, for now, the smartphone reigns supreme.
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