Nothing CEO Carl Pei believes that traditional smartphone apps could eventually disappear, as AI agents become capable of handling tasks autonomously, signaling a major shift in how users interact with mobile devices and digital services.
TL;DR
- Carl Pei says apps could “disappear” as AI agents evolve
- AI agents may replace traditional app-based interactions
- Shift could redefine smartphone interfaces and user experience
- Reflects growing role of generative AI in consumer technology
Carl Pei, CEO of consumer technology company Nothing, has shared a forward-looking view on the future of smartphones, suggesting that apps as we know them today may not remain central to the user experience.
Speaking about the evolution of mobile interfaces, Pei said that apps could eventually “disappear” as artificial intelligence agents take over many of their functions. Instead of manually navigating between apps, users may increasingly rely on AI systems to carry out tasks on their behalf.
Pei indicated that the current app-based model, where users switch between multiple applications for different needs, may become less relevant as AI capabilities improve. AI agents could enable more seamless interactions by understanding user intent and executing actions across services without requiring direct app usage.
This approach points to a broader transformation in how smartphones are designed and used. Future devices may move away from traditional app grids and instead center around AI-driven interfaces that operate through natural language, context, and automation.
The comments come amid growing industry momentum around generative AI and agent-based systems. Technology companies are increasingly embedding AI deeper into operating systems and platforms, aiming to create more intuitive and personalized user experiences.
Pei’s perspective aligns with a wider shift in the role of AI, from being an assistive feature to becoming the primary interface layer. This transition could reduce friction in digital interactions and simplify how users access services.
However, such a shift could also disrupt existing ecosystems built around apps. App stores, developer monetization models, and digital advertising frameworks are all closely tied to the current app-based structure. Moving toward AI-driven interactions may require significant changes to these systems.
Pei did not specify a timeline for when this transition might occur but emphasized the direction in which the technology is evolving. As AI continues to advance, its integration into consumer devices is expected to deepen.
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