T-Mobile’s Parent Company is Building an AI-Powered Smartphone
Deutsche Telekom, the parent company of T-Mobile, is developing a new AI-powered smartphone. The device, named the AI Phone, will feature Perplexity Assistant, Google Cloud AI, ElevenLabs, and Picsart. The company made this announcement at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona.
This smartphone is expected to bring a new approach to using AI in daily life. Unlike traditional devices, the AI Phone will operate mainly through voice commands. Users can book flights, make reservations, shop online, and more—all without switching between multiple apps.
What is the AI Phone?
Deutsche Telekom first introduced the AI Phone concept at MWC 2024. The device aims to simplify user interactions by reducing the need for apps. Instead, it will rely on AI-powered voice commands.
With Perplexity Assistant at its core, the phone will work like an advanced digital helper. It can answer queries, assist with travel bookings, and even help with shopping. This aligns with the growing trend of large action models, seen in other AI-driven products like the Rabbit R1.
Features and AI Tools
Apart from Perplexity’s AI-powered search engine, the AI Phone will integrate several AI-based tools. These include:
- Google Cloud AI – Enhances smart responses and automation.
- ElevenLabs – Powers AI-generated voice assistance.
- Picsart – Provides AI-driven image editing capabilities.
Notably, some of these AI tools will also be available for other smartphones. Users can access them through the MeinMagenta app, which works on multiple devices. Perplexity has also launched an Android app, further expanding its reach.
What Does the AI Phone Look Like?
Deutsche Telekom has not yet revealed detailed specifications of the AI Phone. However, early images suggest it will be a budget to midrange Android device. The design shows a thicker forehead and chin bezels, along with a pink sleep/wake button—a signature touch by Deutsche Telekom.
While the phone may not compete with premium flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, its real value lies in its AI-driven functionality. The focus is on making digital interactions easier, rather than offering top-tier hardware.
Launch Date and Availability
The AI Phone is set to launch in the second half of 2025. Meanwhile, Deutsche Telekom plans to integrate some of the AI tools into the MeinMagenta app by summer 2025. This means existing smartphone users, including those using Samsung and other brands, will also benefit from these AI advancements.
How Will the AI Phone Change the Market?
With AI becoming more integrated into everyday technology, Deutsche Telekom’s AI Phone could mark a shift in how smartphones function. Instead of tapping through multiple apps, users will speak commands and let AI handle tasks seamlessly.
This development raises several questions:
- Will this new approach replace traditional smartphones?
- Can AI handle complex tasks reliably?
- How will competitors like Samsung, Apple, and Google respond to this shift?
Final Thoughts
Deutsche Telekom’s AI Phone is an ambitious project. While its success remains to be seen, it introduces an innovative way to use smartphones. By leveraging AI tools like Perplexity Assistant, this device could simplify how people interact with technology.
As the launch approaches, more details will emerge about its capabilities, pricing, and real-world performance. Whether it becomes a breakthrough or a niche product, it’s clear that AI-powered smartphones are set to shape the future of mobile technology.
