Samsung's S26 gives an advance look at what the Google-powered Apple Siri could do

Core Insights - Samsung has launched the Galaxy S26 series, integrating Alphabet's Gemini AI technology prominently, marking a significant step in mobile AI applications [1] - The S26 features a multi-agent AI system combining Google's Gemini, Perplexity, and an upgraded version of Samsung's Bixby, showcasing Samsung's strategy to diversify its AI partnerships [2] Group 1: AI Integration - Samsung is combining three AI engines: Google's Gemini for tasks like booking rides, Perplexity for web queries, and an enhanced Bixby as the on-device assistant [2] - The S26 allows Gemini to perform autonomous actions within third-party apps, expanding its functionality beyond Samsung's ecosystem [3] Group 2: Partnership Dynamics - Samsung's partnership with Google has deepened, with Samsung being the first to ship Gemini in the Galaxy S24 and enhancing integration in subsequent models [3] - Despite past efforts to establish independence with its Tizen OS and Bixby, Samsung has aligned closely with Google in the AI era while also engaging with Perplexity for additional options [4] Group 3: Market Position - Samsung has emerged as the most significant distribution channel for Google's consumer AI, a position that Apple has yet to match despite its own investments in AI technology [5]