On February 4th, 2025, I had the pleasure of being a guest on NTV Kenya’s Business Redefined with Julians Amboko to discuss the AI-powered revolution ushered in by Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Series and its broader implications for Kenya and Africa. The conversation spanned Samsung’s journey from Generative AI to Agentic AI, the policy environment surrounding AI, and how AI adoption could disrupt industries and create opportunities across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.

From Generative AI to Agentic AI: A Leap Forward with the Galaxy S25

At the heart of our conversation was Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Series, the first smartphones globally to feature Agentic AI. Unlike the previous Generative AI capabilities in the Galaxy S24 Series, which could create outcomes like live translations and image generation, Agentic AI goes further by acting as a proactive personal assistant. This feature, known as Companion AI, integrates with apps, analyzes schedules, and autonomously performs tasks such as flight planning, email organization, and task management.

I explained how the S25 represents a major shift in mobile AI, with the device capable of executing tasks independently. For example, AI agents can monitor your calendar, organize meetings, and proactively alert you to changes — transforming the smartphone into a true digital companion.

The Policy Environment: AI’s Potential & Risks

AI’s rapid growth raises important regulatory questions, especially in countries like Kenya. Julians and I explored the challenges of AI infrastructure investment and regulatory frameworks, which are necessary to ensure that AI benefits the broader population without exacerbating inequality.

We touched on the potential risks, including:

AI’s impact on jobs, where AI-enabled employees may outperform those without access to technology.

Data privacy and security concerns, especially when AI systems handle sensitive personal or corporate information.

I highlighted that Kenya’s AI policy roadmap (2024–2028) must be carefully crafted to support innovation while addressing risks like AI bias, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and data sovereignty.

AI for SMEs & Everyday Use

A key point of discussion was how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can access AI tools to remain competitive. I shared how devices like the Galaxy S25 and AI-powered productivity applications are lowering barriers for businesses. The Galaxy S25’s on-device AI processing, for instance, enables features like live transcription, making meetings more efficient without the need for costly external tools.

From live translations for cross-border business to meeting summaries automatically generated on the device, AI is already transforming the way we work. I stressed that businesses should embrace these tools, even at a basic level, to enhance productivity and stay ahead.

Sustainability & AI: More Than Just Technology

Julians also raised the issue of sustainability, and I explained how Samsung’s Galaxy S25 contributes to the green agenda through:

Eco-friendly packaging and recycled materials used in device production.

Long-term software support, ensuring devices remain functional and updated for years.

Energy-efficient AI processes that optimize performance while minimizing energy consumption.

By designing devices that last longer and consume less energy, Samsung is helping users reduce their carbon footprint while maximizing device value.

AI Security: Protecting Data & Privacy

As AI takes on more autonomous tasks, ensuring security is critical. I explained how AI systems on the Galaxy S25 are designed with privacy in mind through features like:

On-device AI processing to minimize reliance on external cloud services.

User consent mechanisms for sensitive actions like accessing financial data.

Data sandboxing, allowing businesses to run AI models securely without exposing sensitive data to public platforms.

Final Thoughts: Are You AI Ready?

We ended the conversation with a call to action: AI is already transforming the world, and it’s up to individuals and businesses to adopt the right mindset and tools. Whether it’s using AI-powered smartphones or investing in AI training, staying competitive requires an AI-first approach.

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 is more than a smartphone — it’s a tool for innovation. Its Agentic AI capabilities, robust design, and affordability, it’s set to play a key role in helping businesses and individuals embrace AI-driven productivity. Watch the full conversation for more insights:

Video Podcast: 

Audio Podcast: