In a recent exclusive interview, George Zhao, CEO of Honor, emphasized the importance of protecting user data in the development and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Zhao highlighted that the transformative power of AI is only valuable if data security and user privacy are maintained. Honor’s approach involves keeping AI operations limited to the smartphone, known as on-device AI, to ensure that user data does not leave the device. This stands in contrast with AI tools that rely on cloud computing for operation.
Zhao compared the development of AI in two directions: on-device AI and network (cloud) AI. While network AI has become more powerful, on-device AI offers more intimacy and understanding for consumers. Zhao believes that on-device AI has the potential to empower consumers and enhance their interaction with AI technologies in the future. Despite the limitations in computing power for on-device AI compared to cloud-based AI, Zhao stressed the importance of balancing AI capabilities with energy usage and data privacy to address the challenges faced by manufacturers.
According to Zhao, the future of smartphone development should focus on empowering individuals rather than making the system itself stronger. He expressed concerns about systems that collect large amounts of user data to deliver personalized features, as they can potentially overpower the individual using the system. Zhao’s vision for mobile end devices is to empower and enable individuals in the AI era. Honor’s Magic V2 folding phone, which received the “Best Smartphone in Asia Award” at the Shanghai Mobile World Congress, exemplifies the company’s commitment to integrating the latest AI functions in their products.
Honor’s on-device AI is self-developed, and the company works with tech giants like Baidu and Google Cloud for additional AI features. This collaborative approach allows Honor to leverage the expertise of industry leaders while maintaining control over user data security. Zhao reiterated that data security and user privacy are fundamental value propositions for Honor, and without them, AI would lose its value. As the company prepares to launch the Magic V3 with the latest AI functions in July, Honor remains focused on enhancing user experience while prioritizing data protection in AI development.
Overall, the integration of AI technologies in smartphones presents both opportunities and challenges for manufacturers. By prioritizing data security, user privacy, and on-device AI development, companies like Honor can empower individuals and create more personalized and secure AI experiences for consumers. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, maintaining a balance between innovation and data protection will be crucial for the future of AI-powered devices.
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