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Here’s an AI gadget that actually works — and one that needs improvement
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The AI hardware shift: Major tech companies are moving artificial intelligence processing from cloud servers directly onto consumer devices, promising faster performance and more personalized features without constant internet connectivity.

  • Google’s Pixel 9 Pro demonstrates successful on-device AI integration with photo editing capabilities and an advanced digital assistant
  • Windows Copilot+ PCs currently face challenges in delivering their promised AI features
  • The industry aims to eventually compress ChatGPT-level AI capabilities into mobile devices that can process data locally

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro highlights: The smartphone showcases several practical AI-powered features that operate directly on the device.

  • “Add Me” feature allows users to insert themselves into group photos when they’re the photographer
  • Audio enhancement tools can adjust individual speaker volumes and reduce background noise in videos
  • Background replacement feature generates AI-created scenery, though results can appear slightly artificial
  • Call Notes provides call recording and transcription, though the summary feature occasionally fails

Microsoft Recall’s mixed results: Microsoft‘s AI-powered memory tool shows promise but currently suffers from reliability issues.

  • The software captures screenshots every few seconds and indexes both text and images
  • Image analysis capabilities show potential but often misidentify content
  • Many websites go unrecorded, limiting the tool’s effectiveness as a comprehensive memory aid
  • Microsoft acknowledges the current version needs improvement

Privacy considerations: On-device AI processing offers enhanced security benefits compared to cloud-based alternatives.

  • Microsoft Recall‘s data remains encrypted and stored locally
  • Physical access to devices would be required to compromise AI-processed information
  • Local processing reduces the need to share personal data with cloud servers

Looking ahead: The evolution of on-device AI points toward more sophisticated personal computing experiences, though current implementations vary significantly in their effectiveness and reliability.

  • Early adoption challenges highlight the gap between AI’s potential and current technical limitations
  • The industry continues working toward creating self-contained, personalized AI assistants that understand user preferences and anticipate needs
  • Success will likely depend on balancing ambitious features with practical functionality
Here’s an AI-powered gadget that actually works — and one that needs work

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