Gartner defines GenAI smartphones as devices equipped with a built-in neural engine or neural processing unit (NPU) capable of running small language models. The forecast covers both premium smartphones and basic smartphones (under $350) but excludes utility smartphones as they are not expected to have NPU capabilities at any time. "Currently, most users still rely on text or touch for all tasks, and voice interactions remain limited in scope. However, as conversational AI becomes more natural in the future, users are expected to become more comfortable with AI as a proactive digital companion, rather than just a reactive tool," said Ranjit Atwal, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner.