A recent survey reveals that when purchasing smartphones, the majority of consumers prioritize fundamental features, primarily battery life. Despite Apple’s emphasis on its new Apple Intelligence as a key incentive for upgrading to the iPhone 16, survey results indicate that AI capabilities have yet to significantly influence purchasing decisions.
Research from CNET highlights that only 10% of smartphone owners actively use AI for tasks like photo editing, while just 12% engage with generative AI services such as ChatGPT. Additionally, only 14% of consumers expressed enthusiasm regarding potential future AI features.
When considering reasons for upgrading their devices, slightly more than one in six users (18%) identified AI integration as their primary motivator. In contrast, the more critical factors influencing new phone purchases include longer battery life (61%), increased storage capacity (46%), and enhanced camera capabilities (38%).
These findings pose a challenge for Apple, especially as it seeks to capitalize on AI services through its Apple Intelligence+ offering. Notably, nearly half of smartphone users indicated they are reluctant to spend additional money on AI functionalities, primarily due to subscription fatigue. The average American, for instance, already spends over $1,000 annually on streaming services, leading to hesitance toward further expenses.
This landscape is not particularly surprising given that consumers currently have limited opportunities to engage with the AI technology Apple promotes, aside from familiar applications like image processing tools. However, Apple may be optimistic that sentiments could shift as Apple Intelligence becomes more broadly integrated and accessible to users.