Nothing CEO Carl Pei Envisions AI Agents Replacing Smartphone Apps Carl Pei, co-founder and CEO of Nothing, has outlined a future where smartphone apps are replaced by AI agents capable of executing tasks autonomously. During a discussion at SXSW, Pei emphasized that the current app-based model is outdated and that AI-driven devices will redefine how users interact with technology. “Apps are going to disappear,” he said, warning that startups relying on traditional app models risk disruption as AI becomes more integrated into daily life. Pei’s vision centers on an AI-first device that anticipates user needs without requiring explicit commands. He described a system where the AI learns long-term intentions, such as helping users achieve health goals by offering personalized suggestions. “The system will come up with things we don’t even know we wanted,” he explained, drawing a parallel to ChatGPT’s memory features. This shift would eliminate the need for users to navigate multiple apps to accomplish simple tasks, such as ordering coffee, which currently involves switching between messaging, maps, ride-hailing, and calendar apps. The CEO criticized the current smartphone interface as “old-school,” comparing it to pre-iPhone devices like Palm Pilots and PDAs. He argued that the user experience has remained largely unchanged for two decades, despite advancements in technology. “It’s very hard to get things done on a phone,” Pei said, highlighting the inefficiency of manual app interactions. His ideal future involves a device that acts on behalf of the user, eliminating the need for repetitive steps. Pei acknowledged that apps are not disappearing immediately, noting that Nothing’s operating system allows users to create mini apps.#carl_pei #nothing #sxsw #ai_agents #smartphone_apps
