Samsung Galaxy S26: The Rise of Multi-Agent AI and the ‘Hey Plex’ Era
Samsung is poised to significantly expand its AI capabilities with the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, introducing “Hey Plex” as a new voice command to activate Perplexity AI. This move signals a broader shift towards a multi-agent AI ecosystem, where users can seamlessly interact with various AI assistants – Google, Bixby, and now Perplexity – on a single device.
A Trio of AI Assistants: Google, Bixby, and Perplexity
For years, “Hey Google” has been the dominant voice assistant on Android. Samsung has supplemented this with “Hey Bixby,” offering users a choice. The addition of “Hey Plex” demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to an “open and inclusive integrated AI ecosystem,” allowing users to select the AI best suited for their needs. This isn’t about replacing existing assistants, but augmenting the user experience with more options.
Perplexity: A New Kind of AI Companion
Perplexity stands out as an AI focused on providing concise, sourced answers to questions. Unlike traditional chatbots, Perplexity emphasizes transparency by citing its sources, making it a valuable tool for research and information gathering. Its integration into the Galaxy S26 series, accessible via voice or quick-access controls like holding the side button, promises a more efficient way to locate information on the go.
System-Level Integration and Seamless Workflows
The integration of Perplexity isn’t limited to a standalone app. Samsung highlights a “system-level” approach, embedding the AI agent across select apps like Samsung Notes, Clock, Gallery, Reminder, and Calendar, as well as some third-party applications. This deep integration enables “smoother, multi-step workflows,” allowing users to move between tasks without constantly switching between apps. Imagine quickly summarizing a meeting in Samsung Notes using Perplexity, then adding it to your Calendar – all through voice commands or contextual menus.
The Multi-Agent Future: Why Samsung is Leading the Charge
Samsung’s strategy reflects a growing trend: users are increasingly relying on multiple AI agents. The company reports that “nearly 8 in 10 users now rely on more than two types of AI agents.” This suggests a demand for specialized AI tools, each excelling in different areas. Samsung’s vision is to provide a platform where these agents can coexist and collaborate, offering a richer and more flexible AI experience.
Beyond the S26: Expanding the AI Ecosystem
While the initial rollout is focused on the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung hints at broader availability. Details on “supported devices” will be announced “soon,” suggesting that other Galaxy devices may also gain access to Perplexity and the “Hey Plex” command in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perplexity AI?
Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine that provides concise, sourced answers to questions. It differs from traditional search engines by focusing on direct answers and citing its sources.
What does “Hey Plex” do?
“Hey Plex” is a voice command that activates Perplexity AI on the Galaxy S26 series, allowing users to ask questions and receive information hands-free.
Will Perplexity replace Google Assistant or Bixby?
No, Perplexity is being added as an additional AI agent alongside Google Assistant and Bixby, offering users more choice and flexibility.
Explore more: Discover the latest innovations in mobile AI and the evolving landscape of voice assistants. Share your thoughts in the comments below – which AI agent do you rely on most, and how would you leverage “Hey Plex”?
