Samsung, like most big brands, creates a big fuss around new device launches, and the Galaxy S26 was no exception. But the approach doesn't appear to be the same when major apps are getting updated — and the latest Bixby update proves it.
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What's new Intelligence that works for you, introducing Bixby 4.0
New Features: - Natural Chats: Ask questions and chat freely with Bixby, enjoying a more natural and engaging conversation experience. - Context Awareness: Bixby now… pic.twitter.com/j3XTUbiJ6d
The Galaxy S26 debuted with an upgraded Bixby, transformed as a conversational AI agent capable of understanding natural language to adjust system settings.
What's your favorite AI agent on the Galaxy S26?
86 Votes
Gemini
50%
Bixby
3.49%
Perplexity
3.49%
I use all three
8.14%
I use none
34.88%
At the Galaxy S26 launch, the Bixby app was v4.0.51.0, which could still be the last available version for some users around the globe. For now, the exact rollout schedule remains unclear, but Samsung typically launches updates in its home market before introducing them to users globally.
New features
According to Tarun Vats's post, the latest version of the Bixby app comes with some new features, all focused on a more natural interaction with the agent.
A demo of how the revamped Bixby (launched in February) works. | Image by Video by Samsung
The new Bixby update comes with:
Natural Chats — users can now ask questions and chat freely.
Device Help — Galaxy S26 owners can now get troubleshooting advice from Bixby.
Conversation History — this allows users to review or continue recent chats effortlessly.
Info on Demand — ask about anything and get quick answers, no keyword needed.
Context Awareness — the agent can now remember conversational context for a more efficient interaction.
Multi-step Actions — Bixby can handle complex tasks in a single request.
Besides launching a new Bixby app update, Samsung has also started rolling out a Voice Wake-up update for the Galaxy S26. This one triggers Bixby with a simple voice command even when your phone is locked.
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Samsung doubles down on AI integration this year
Samsung has been heavily investing in AI over the last few years. But the Galaxy S26 brings Galaxy AI even closer to users.
Among the highlights of this year's flagships is Samsung's integration of several AI agents. Users can now choose their preferred AI agent, with Gemini, Perplexity, and Bixby all integrated for on-device AI assistance.
From modifying system settings with natural language to getting enhanced live translate features, the Galaxy S26 shows just how big Samsung's commitment to AI is.
It's about time
The Galaxy S26 is finally living up to its potential, AI-wise. | Image by PhoneArena
During the Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung hammered down on the S26's new AI capabilities. But to me, the Bixby app update shows that the company was eager to release its flagships first and then deal with fixing apps.
I wouldn't say Samsung is the only brand to do it, as that's certainly not the case. And yet, given the massive revamp of Bixby in February, this update feels like the missing piece of the puzzle that should have been integrated on Day 1.
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Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.
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