AI Devices Are Coming. Will Your Favorite Apps Be Along for the Ride?

Is the Future Pointing to AI-Powered Devices and a New App Landscape?

Have you ever wondered if your daily smartphone habit might soon look totally different - thanks to the explosion of AI devices are coming and the question on everyone's mind: Will your favorite apps stick around as the center of your digital life?

The tech world is buzzing with rumors, announcements, and even a hint of fear about what's next. By 2026, it's almost certain we'll see AI-powered gadgets that can do more than just answer questions - they're designed to take action on your behalf.

For more details, check out Google Announces AI Overviews in Gmail Search: The Experimental AI-Organized Inbox You Need To Know About.

But what does this mean for the apps you use every day? Let's break it down. Imagine asking your new smart glasses to book a flight, order groceries, or even schedule a doctor's appointment - all without ever opening a single app.

That's the dream (and the worry) of the digital age we're diving into. The big players - Amazon, Meta, OpenAI, and others - are racing to build operating systems for these next-gen devices. But as we unpack what's really happening, you might find your favorite apps could face a bigger upheaval than you realize.

What Are These "AI Operating Systems" and Why Do They Matter?

So, what exactly are companies talking about when they say "AI operating systems"? It's not just a fancy new app. These frameworks are designed to let AI agents manage your digital tasks seamlessly - think of it as your own personal digital butler.

These systems can integrate with smart home devices, wearables, and even AR glasses to carry out complex routines without your direct input. For example, imagine an AI assistant that can automatically check your calendar, order lunch, and notify your delivery app - all in one go.

The goal is to create a smooth, hands-free experience that feels more intuitive than ever before. But here's the twist: instead of passing through your usual apps, the AI is supposed to know what you need and get it done, often bypassing the traditional user journey.

How Does This Threaten Traditional Apps?

This shift raises a big question: if AI devices can do everything for you, why would you - or would you - open a specific app at all? For years, companies like Uber, DoorDash, and even Facebook have built their empires by keeping you locked into their apps.

They show you ads, nudge you to upgrade, and collect data with every interaction. But if an AI device can order you food, schedule your meetings, or even book flights without you ever opening an app, those businesses might lose a huge chunk of their ad revenue and data collection opportunities.

As Anjney Midha, an AI investor, points out, developers who can't control the supply chain through these new platforms could find themselves out of the loop. It's like going from being the main attraction at a theater to just being a background prop.

Will Your Apps Simply Get Replaced… or Just Transformed?

Don't panic yet! While the idea of AI devices replacing apps sounds sci-fi, the reality is probably more nuanced. Many experts believe these devices will act as bridges, not replacements. Think of apps as the tools your AI uses, rather than the destination you visit.

For example, your AI might still call DoorDash's API to order food, but you'd never see the DoorDash app open - it's all handled invisibly behind the scenes. The key here is integration. If developers adapt, they could find new ways to partner with AI platforms.

Imagine a loyalty program that's baked directly into your smart device's AI, or push notifications that are delivered through your AI assistant rather than a traditional app notification. The apps themselves might evolve - or even disappear from your direct interaction, but their services could still power the experiences you enjoy.

What About Privacy and Control?

Here's where things get tricky. If AI devices are handling your requests and decisions, who controls the data? And how do you keep your information safe? Experts warn that this shift could make privacy and user control harder to manage. Unlike browsing a website or opening an app, you might not even know exactly how your requests are being processed or what data is being collected.

To stay in control, experts recommend being proactive. If you're a developer, start exploring partnerships with AI platforms early. If you're a regular user, keep an eye on privacy settings and consider what data you're willing to share with these new systems.

After all, in the age of AI devices are coming, you deserve to know what you're signing up for.

How Can Developers and Users Stay Ahead?

So, what can you - or your favorite app - do in this rapidly changing landscape? For app developers, the message is clear: adapt or risk being left behind. Start thinking about your service not as an isolated app, but as a modular piece of a larger, AI-driven ecosystem.

Build APIs that can be easily integrated into future AI operating systems. Stay attuned to trends in AI partnerships and open standards. As for regular users? Stay curious, and don't be afraid to experiment with new devices. Right now, most AI tech is in early stages, so reliability and privacy still matter.

Use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and read up on how your data is being used by these emerging platforms. Treat AI not as a replacement for apps, but as a smarter collaborator - just like your phone has always been.

Final Thoughts: The App Revolution Isn't All Bad News

The arrival of AI devices are coming and the possibility that your favorite apps might not be the star of your digital day is both exciting and a little scary. But history shows that every major tech shift creates new opportunities for innovation - and for those willing to adapt.

Related reading: Jensen Huang Says Nvidia’s New Vera Rubin Chips Are in ‘Full Production’: The AI Revolution Gets Faster.

The real question isn't "Will apps disappear?" but "How will they transform - and thrive - in this new world?" Don't wait to start learning. The future of apps isn't written yet. Whether you're a developer, a power user, or just someone who loves the convenience of a good app, now is the time to stay informed, ask questions, and shape how these AI-powered experiences will work for you.

After all, in the age of AI, the best guide is always curiosity - and a little bit of caution.

Ready to stay ahead? Follow along for the latest tips on navigating the evolving AI landscape.

• Wired: Inside the race for AI operating systems
• BBC Tech: The future of apps in the AI era