AI Agents to Dominate Mobile Devices in Next Decade, Says Honor's President

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Mobile devices are set to evolve from mere application platforms to active agents in artificial intelligence over the next decade, according to the head of the product division at a leading Chinese smartphone manufacturer. As AI progresses to become capable of understanding user intentions, planning tasks, and executing actions, these devices are entering a new phase of transformation, explained the company executive during a keynote at a 2026 industry expo in Shanghai.

The transformation involves three main changes. First, the interaction paradigm is shifting from traditional graphical user interfaces to one driven by natural language and intent expression. Second, the core value system is evolving from a focus solely on application ecosystems to deeper analysis and management of users’ long-term behavior data. Third, the distribution logic is transitioning from a consumer-centered approach to an agent-oriented one.

“The devices will become essential gateways for AI integration into daily human life,” the executive noted. Historically, these devices primarily served as hardware carriers and entry points, but with the increasing reliance of AI on user scenarios, device status, and behavioral data, their significance is growing. This shift also presents a rare opportunity for device manufacturers in the AI age.

Furthermore, traditional operating systems, which mainly manage applications, will struggle to support the autonomous coordination required by advanced AI agents, she emphasized.

During the event, she announced a new top-level AI system architecture called Agentic OS, with full technical details expected to be released shortly. Under this architecture, AI agents will independently complete multi-step tasks across various apps without human intervention. Devices will accept diverse inputs such as voice commands, gestures, eye movements, and body language, moving beyond the limitations of touchscreens. These agents will proactively plan, assist, and carry out tasks for users and will enable seamless coordination among different devices, including smartphones, computers, wearables, and smart home gadgets.

This new OS aims to fundamentally alter the human-device relationship, transforming passive tools into intelligent partners capable of understanding users and acting proactively.