Generative AI & LLMs
On-device AI
AI processing performed on the device being used.
Example
A phone sorts a photo without sending it elsewhere for that task.
Why people use it
It can provide quick AI features without sending every task to a remote computer.
What you'll hear
“This feature works right on my phone.”
What this means for you
Check what the app sends online as well as what it does on the phone.
Can you control it?
Sometimes
Sometimes. Your choices depend on the tool and your access. The settings available to an everyday user may differ from those available to the people running it.
Common questions
- Does on-device processing guarantee complete privacy?
- No. The app may still sync data or use online features.
- Will it work on any device?
- No. A feature may need enough memory, processing power or a supported operating system.
- Can it use more battery?
- Yes. Running calculations on the device uses power, although the amount depends on the task and hardware.