In June, Apple introduced "Apple Intelligence," applying on-device AI to its iPhones. Prior to this, Samsung had successfully incorporated on-device AI functionalities into its Galaxy S24, based on Android. Until recently, the focus in AI technology revolved around massive investments in large language models (LLMs) and generative AI. However, since this year, criticisms have arisen about the lack of clear revenue models re

“Many AI companies face challenges in profitability due to the enormous costs of GPU cloud servers. In this context, On-device AI is emerging as a compelling alternative to cloud-based AI.”

These heartfelt statements were the acceptance speeches of the top three teams honored at this year’s COMEUP Stars program. COMEUP Stars is the flagship program of COMEUP 2024, Korea’s largest startup festival, identifying innovative startups with market potential, innovation, growth prospects, and global scalability. This year, 1,208 startups applied; 40 teams advanced through preliminary rounds, 10 teams reached the final pitching stage, and the top three teams — Toonimotion, Pscore, and Foretell My Health — were crowned the “Best COMEUP Stars.”

On-device AI, LLM-based e-commerce solutions, and smart water management are some of the services offered by promising domestic AI startups that participated in the 65th AI Future Forum Startup Roundtable held recently. The event was hosted by Hankyung Geeks, the 'Citizens' Coalition for Scientific Society' (CCSS), AI Future Forum (AIFF), and Capstone Partners to connect companies and investors.

On-device AI software startup ZETIC.ai, led by CEO Yeonseok Kim, released the beta version of their integrated on-device AI solution, ZETIC.MLange, on the 29th. Under the brand mission "Bring on-device AI to everyone," ZETIC.ai is developing on-device AI solutions that enable startups offering AI services to internalize AI computations typically handled by servers. In May, ZETIC.ai secured seed funding from Korea Investment Accelerator and The Ventures.

Apple CEO Tim Cook confidently stated that "Apple Intelligence" would be a game-changer. Recently, Apple unveiled "Apple Intelligence," which incorporates on-device AI technology, providing features like generative AI and ChatGPT. Apple also announced a partnership with OpenAI, planning to integrate ChatGPT into their voice assistant, Siri. Apple aims to expand AI applications, starting with Apple Intelligence.

As generative AI technology rapidly advances, interest in 'On-Device AI' is also growing. On-Device AI refers to AI technology that performs data computation directly on end devices, such as smartphones or tablets, without relying on central data centers or clouds. This technology can address the drawbacks of cloud-based AI, such as excessive power consumption, privacy risks, and latency issues. It is also known as 'Edge AI' because it operates on the edge of the network, without requiring an internet connection.

B2B AI service startup ZETIC.ai announced on the 21st that it recently secured seed funding from Korea Investment Accelerator and The Ventures. The investment amount remains undisclosed. ZETIC.ai plans to use the funds to hire AI developers and other personnel to enhance its products and prepare for global market expansion.

ZETIC.ai, a Korean startup specializing in the on-device transition of B2B AI services, has secured seed funding from Korea Investment Accelerator and TheVentures. The company has developed ZETIC.Melange, a server-less AI solution that allows AI models to run directly on mobile devices without the need for expensive GPU servers.