In today’s world, where major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft are embedding artificial intelligence (AI) into almost every aspect of their services, Honor is charting a unique course.
Instead of just following the trend, Honor is pioneering what it calls “human-centric on-device AI.” At the recent MWC Shanghai 2024, Honor introduced two revolutionary AI features: AI Deepfake Detection and AI Defocus Eye Protection.
AI Deepfake Detection: A Guardian Against Digital Deception
Honor’s AI Deepfake Detection is an on-device tool designed to identify videos manipulated by AI. This technology works by meticulously analyzing videos frame-by-frame, focusing on details such as eye contact, lighting, image clarity, and video playback.
These elements can reveal discrepancies that are invisible to the naked eye but indicative of AI-generated content. When the tool detects a potential deepfake, it alerts the user with a message: “Honor scam alert. It looks like the other person could be using AI to swap their face.”
Currently, this feature is limited to video calls, making it particularly useful for spotting scams during live interactions. However, it’s not hard to imagine this technology being extended to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
These platforms are increasingly plagued by AI-generated content, and such a tool could become essential for maintaining authenticity and trust online.
AI Defocus Eye Protection: Promoting Eye Health in the Digital Age
The second feature Honor unveiled is AI Defocus Eye Protection, addressing the widespread issue of nearsightedness due to prolonged screen usage. This innovative feature effectively turns the screen of Honor phones into a tool for eye health.
It works by intentionally blurring the peripheral visual field while keeping the central vision clear. This technique helps to slow down the elongation of the eye, which is a primary cause of nearsightedness.
Honor claims that this feature can “decrease transient myopia by 13 degrees on average after reading for 25 minutes.” If these claims hold up, it could represent a significant advancement in reducing the eye strain associated with extended screen time, particularly among younger users who are most vulnerable to these issues.
A Vision for On-Device AI
George Zhao, the CEO of Honor, highlighted the transformative potential of on-device AI during the keynote: “AI is revolutionizing our lives and driving the smartphone industry forward, but much of the industry has focused on cloud-based AI, which is just a part of the puzzle.
On-device AI, which is run on smartphones that understand us better than any other devices, is uniquely positioned to deliver services that are tailored to us and our preferences.
At Honor, we believe on-device AI has the potential to empower users and become more capable in everything they do. We invite all industry players to join us as we explore the untapped potential of on-device AI.”
This approach underscores a significant shift from the prevailing trend of cloud-based AI. On-device AI offers several advantages, including faster response times, enhanced privacy, and the ability to function without an internet connection. By harnessing these benefits, Honor aims to provide a more personalized and secure user experience.
Looking Ahead
Although these groundbreaking features are not yet available, they are expected to be rolled out on Honor’s current flagship smartphones and upcoming devices. This focus on practical, user-centric AI solutions demonstrates Honor’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges and enhancing daily smartphone experiences.
As we look to the future, Honor’s innovations could set new standards for the smartphone industry. By prioritizing user empowerment and safety, Honor is not just keeping pace with the integration of AI but is also leading the way in creating more intelligent and human-friendly technology.
These developments highlight the company’s vision of leveraging AI to improve the quality of life for its users, ensuring that technological advancement goes hand in hand with user well-being and security.