Samsung’s Bixby has long been overshadowed by competitors like Google Assistant and Siri. In 2024, with the arrival of Google’s Gemini and Apple’s significantly improved Siri, Bixby seemed even further behind. However, recent announcements indicate a dramatic shift. During the launch event for the Galaxy W25 and W25 Flip in China, Samsung revealed its “next-generation Bixby,” promising a substantial upgrade with new AI features designed to compete directly with industry leaders.
Enhanced Understanding and Multitasking
One of the most significant improvements is Bixby’s enhanced ability to comprehend complex questions and execute multitasking instructions within a single sentence. Similar to recent advancements in Siri’s natural language processing, the new Bixby is designed to understand user requests delivered in a more conversational style.
alt text: A screenshot showcasing Samsung's new Bixby interface
Contextual Awareness and Productivity Features
The next-generation Bixby can also interpret on-screen information to provide more contextually relevant assistance. For example, while viewing a restaurant in a text message or on a website, users can simply tell Bixby to “navigate here” to receive immediate directions. Additional features include a website translation tool and the ability to generate documents, presentations, and spreadsheets from user prompts, further enhancing productivity.
A Fresh New Look
Bixby’s visual interface has also received an overhaul, taking over the entire screen with a new design. While it’s uncertain if it will incorporate the glowing screen effect introduced with the new Siri, the updated aesthetic represents a significant departure from the current version.
Global Availability Remains Uncertain
Despite these exciting developments, a significant question mark remains: when will the next-generation Bixby be available outside of China? While the Galaxy W25 and W25 Flip currently offer exclusive access, a broader release date is yet to be confirmed.
alt text: Promotional image for Samsung's next-generation Bixby, showcasing its AI capabilities.
Potential Release Timeline and Implications
Speculation suggests the new Bixby might debut alongside the Samsung Galaxy S25 series in early 2025 or potentially with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 later that year. Samsung’s commitment to AI is evident in its Galaxy AI suite, and the updated Bixby represents a crucial step in integrating the assistant into this broader ecosystem. Whether these upgrades will position Bixby as a true competitor to Siri and Gemini remains to be seen, but the company is undoubtedly moving in a promising direction.
