{
  "id": 128473,
  "title": "The best anti-AI smartphones in 2026: Expert tested and recommended",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/04/the-best-anti-ai-smartphones-in-2026-expert-tested-and-recommended",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-04T11:00:55.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ZDNet",
    "slug": "zdnet",
    "url": "https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-phones-without-ai-features/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As AI and machine learning algorithms proliferate across devices, many consumers seek smartphones that avoid this technology. Despite the prevalence of AI features, several options remain on the market for those desiring a digital detox. Let's examine the best anti-AI smartphones currently available.\n\nFor iOS users, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is a solid choice, just one generation behind with premium-grade features. It allows you to opt out of Apple Intelligence, which is a key selling point. When it comes to Android devices, the Galaxy S22 series is the last known model that doesn't ship with Galaxy AI support. However, the best options may lie in devices that either prevent AI support or permit opt-outs.\n\nThere are several advantages to using AI-free smartphones. Beyond removing unwanted features, these phones safeguard sensitive data and personal information from potential vulnerabilities in AI-enabled devices. Apple Intelligence and Microsoft Co-Pilot have faced scrutiny for security flaws that could expose names, addresses, and medical data. Moreover, AI programs often record audio and video of your screen without explicit consent, further raising privacy concerns.\n\nOpting out of AI features might result in minor drawbacks, such as battery or performance issues. Disabling or removing AI-enabled apps and programs may cause occasional battery drain or CPU performance hiccups. However, these issues are generally minor and outweigh the significant benefits of enhanced security and privacy.\n\nDespite the absence of AI features, some users might experience limited functionality due to software-level AI only being available on certain devices. In cases of hardware-level AI, altering the phone's internal electronics to remove AI features could lead to device damage, warranty voidance, or even trigger a kill switch. Manufacturers' End User License Agreements (EULA) may also allow them to void warranties for hardware modifications.\n\nAs AI continues to permeate smartphones, it may become increasingly challenging to avoid or remove these features. In conclusion, while the absence of AI features in smartphones offers notable advantages, users must weigh the potential drawbacks and take necessary precautions to protect their sensitive data and maintain optimal performance.",
  "summary": "Sick to death of unwanted AI features getting stuffed into your smartphone? We tested the best models from Apple, Samsung, and more that forego AI in favor of features you actually need.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}