Samsung is set to introduce a paid subscription service for its AI-powered smartphones, with the company's AI Subscription Club expanding to Galaxy phones and the upcoming Ballie robot, starting next month in South Korea.

According to ETNews, Samsung Electronics vice chair Han Jong-hee confirmed that the subscription service, initially launched for some of Samsung's home appliances in South Korea last December, will soon be available for Galaxy smartphones and the Ballie AI robot.

The AI Subscription Club allows Korean consumers to sign up for a monthly subscription for their AI-powered devices, including TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, and more, with optional repair and maintenance services, in exchange for a lower upfront cost. This model is not a requirement to access the Galaxy AI features on Samsung's phones and other devices, which will remain free to users at least until the end of 2025, with plans beyond that point unconfirmed.

The Ballie AI robot, first revealed five years ago, is finally ready for release in 2025, with plans to introduce it first in Korea and the US, and supply it as a subscription in Korea. While it's unclear if the subscription model will expand beyond South Korea, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event in San Jose, California, scheduled for January 22nd, may provide more insight into the company's plans.

The expansion of the AI Subscription Club to smartphones and the Ballie robot marks a significant move by Samsung to capitalize on the growing demand for AI-powered devices and subscription-based services. As the tech giant continues to explore new revenue streams, it remains to be seen how this model will be received by consumers and whether it will be successful in the long run.

With Samsung's Galaxy S25 series expected to be unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked event, industry observers will be watching closely to see if the company will provide more details on its subscription plans and how they will impact the global market. As the smartphone landscape continues to evolve, Samsung's move into subscription-based services could have significant implications for the industry as a whole.

Stay tuned for further updates on Samsung's AI Subscription Club and its plans for global expansion.