In a recent exclusive interview with CNBC, George Zhao, the CEO of Chinese smartphone company Honor, emphasized the critical importance of user data protection in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. It is clear that without robust data security and privacy measures in place, the transformative power of AI becomes essentially worthless. This sentiment is particularly relevant in the context of advancements in personalized AI tools, such as those recently announced by Apple.
Honor’s approach to AI, known as on-device AI, involves keeping AI operations limited to the smartphone itself. This stands in contrast to AI tools that rely on cloud computing for their operation. Zhao highlighted the fact that user data does not leave the device, reinforcing the company’s commitment to data security and privacy. While Apple’s AI product, Apple Intelligence, utilizes on-device processing and private cloud compute, Honor’s focus on self-developed on-device AI ensures that user data remains secure and protected.
As AI continues to evolve, manufacturers like Honor are faced with the challenge of balancing AI capabilities with energy usage and data privacy. Zhao noted that while network AI has become increasingly powerful, on-device AI offers a more intimate and consumer-centric approach. The need for large computing power, as seen in generative AI applications like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, raises concerns about data security during data transfer to the cloud. It is essential for manufacturers to prioritize data protection while harnessing the full potential of AI technology.
Zhao believes that the future of smartphones lies in empowering individuals through AI technology. By providing personalized features and support to users, mobile devices can enhance the overall consumer experience. Honor’s commitment to developing AI functions that benefit users, such as detecting deepfakes in videos and simulating lenses for reducing myopia, reflects a customer-centric approach to AI development. As the company continues to innovate with devices like the Magic V2 folding phone, user empowerment remains a central goal.
With the upcoming release of the Magic V3 folding phone in July, Honor is poised to continue integrating the latest AI functions into its flagship devices. By focusing on data protection and user privacy, the company aims to empower individuals in an increasingly AI-driven world. As technology evolves, it is crucial for manufacturers to prioritize security while enhancing the capabilities and benefits of AI for consumers. Honor’s dedication to on-device AI and user-focused innovation sets a valuable example for the industry as a whole.