Pei believes the current app ecosystem, popularised by devices like the iPhone, may not survive the shift to AI-first computing
Future AI systems could understand user habits and offer proactive suggestions without manual input
Pei says smartphones haven’t evolved in 20 years and need new AI-driven interfaces instead of apps
Nothing CEO Carl Pei stated that the future of smartphones can go far beyond the app-driven experience that is popularised by devices like the iPhone. Instead, it may move to AI. Speaking at the SXSW in Austin, Carl Pei stated that the current app ecosystem may not survive the transition towards AI-first computing. As per him, apps can gradually become irrelevant as AI systems take over their core functions.
SurveyPei previously pointed in this direction while raising $200 million in funding for Nothing, where the company pitched the idea of smartphones built around AI and deep personalisation. He explained that the goal is to make a system that understands the users well enough that they no longer feel the need to double-check what the AI is doing.
He also mentioned that it can happen in phases. The first phase, which we can see today, includes AI tools that can perform tasks like booking flights or hotels. But he added that this stage is basic and not exciting.
The next phase, as per Pei, is where things can be more meaningful. Here, AI would begin to understand long-term user intent and habits, giving proactive suggestions. For example, if a user wants to improve their health, the device can nudge them with timely recommendations without being asked.
Also read: OpenAI launches GPT 5.4 mini and nano, its most capable small AI models yet: How to use them
Further, Pei also talked about smartphones that no longer depend on apps or constant user input. Instead of the apps to complete tasks, the device will be able to recognise the user intent and carry out actions automatically.
He also stated that even after big advancements in tech, the way people use phones has not changed in the last 20 years. The users still rely on home screens, app icons and app store. He argued that this approach is inefficient, often needing users to jump between several apps just to complete a basic activity like meeting someone for coffee. In contrast, an AI-first system can organise the process by handling everything in the background.
He also suggested that future devices may need entirely new interfaces, designed not for human interaction but for AI agents to operate more efficiently.
Follow Us
Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile
