Is your phone's next big innovation a dedicated AI button?

Phones are exploring dedicated AI buttons, but users aren't sold yet.

: The latest trend in smartphone innovation is the introduction of dedicated AI buttons. Companies like Nothing and Motorola are integrating these AI-centric keys into their new models, enabling quick access to AI-powered features. Apple is joining this movement with its Action Button, but the adoption is questionable with 73% of iPhone users and 87% of Samsung users believing AI does not significantly enhance their experience. There are concerns about potential subscription fees, with rumors that Nothing could charge up to $120 for its AI app Essential Space.

The smartphone industry is witnessing a new wave of innovation with the rise of dedicated AI buttons, aimed at offering more personalized and context-aware experiences. These buttons promise to simplify how users interact with their devices by providing quick access to AI-driven features, potentially reshaping mobile UX paradigms. The shift reflects how manufacturers are now prioritizing artificial intelligence not just as a backend enhancement but as a primary interface for the user.

OnePlus is leading this trend with its upcoming OnePlus 13 series. It replaces the signature Alert Slider with a new “Plus Key” — a programmable button focused on launching AI features like Plus Mind, which can analyze and extract structured data from whatever’s on screen, such as appointments or notes. This data is then stored in a new space called Mind Space, enabling users to retrieve it quickly without manual copying or pasting.

Motorola has also jumped in with its latest devices that include an AI button to trigger Moto AI. This tool can summarize web pages, generate content, or provide contextual suggestions across different apps. Motorola positions this button as a gateway to proactive AI assistance, helping users manage their digital lives with fewer steps and interruptions.

The growing momentum for AI buttons suggests broader industry support, with reports indicating that Samsung and other Android OEMs may follow suit. These buttons not only provide utility but also act as a branding opportunity, signaling the device’s AI capabilities upfront. Manufacturers hope this hardware addition will differentiate their devices in a crowded market increasingly shaped by generative AI.

Still, challenges remain — including how users will actually integrate these buttons into their habits, and whether AI tools invoked are secure, private, and accurate. As more brands experiment with this approach, the effectiveness of AI buttons will depend on how seamlessly they integrate into real-world use cases and whether they genuinely reduce friction.

Sources: Android Authority, TechRadar, GSM Arena, The Verge, Tom's Guide

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