Whether we want it or not, artificial intelligence is becoming an inseparable part of modern smartphones. From on-device processing to cloud-based assistants, AI features are increasingly baked into the system at the chip level. However, a significant number of users remain resistant to this trend, seeking devices that prioritize simplicity, privacy, and control over automated assistance. A recent report from Circana highlights that many consumers actively avoid AI features on their phones, and some even yearn for the days of feature phones without smart capabilities. But finding a phone completely free from AI is challenging; most current models integrate AI at the silicon level, meaning you would have to go back several generations to find truly AI-free devices. Those older phones, however, often lack security updates and are not recommended for daily use.
Fortunately, there are still a few Android phones on the market that either lack AI features entirely or allow users to disable them completely. These phones are still within their software support lifecycle and offer a viable path for users who want a modern smartphone experience without the AI baggage. Below, we explore four of the best options available today, focusing on models from Samsung, Fairphone, OnePlus, and Sony. Each phone has its own approach to AI, but they share one thing in common: you can keep AI out of your pocket.
Samsung Galaxy A17
Samsung's A-series is the company's entry-level line of smartphones, offering a more affordable alternative to its flagship S-series. The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G sits at the bottom of this lineup at a price of $174.99, while the range tops out at $549.99 for the Galaxy A57 5G. While these phones differ in specifications and price, one common thread is the absence of Samsung's Galaxy AI suite. Galaxy AI, Samsung's on-device and cloud-based AI processing platform, begins with the S24 Ultra and later models, so the entire A-series remains free from these integrated capabilities. This is a major advantage for users who want a modern Samsung experience without the AI features that many find intrusive or unnecessary.
Although Samsung's A-series don't come with Galaxy AI pre-installed, like other smartphone manufacturers, Samsung has been working to bring AI features to more of its product lines over time. In the case of the A-series, newer Android updates have enabled certain AI tools such as Circle to Search and the Gemini app. The good news is that both of these can be easily disabled. Circle to Search can be turned off in the Google app settings, and the Gemini app can be uninstalled or deactivated through the standard app management interface. This means users can retain full control over their phone's AI exposure without resorting to complicated workarounds.
Samsung promises six years of software updates for the Galaxy A17, covering both OS upgrades and security patches. This support extends through 2031, which is impressive for a budget phone. It's worth noting that its predecessor, the Galaxy A16, also receives six years of updates and is supported until 2030. Although Samsung no longer sells the A16 directly, it can still be found online for around $150. For those on a tight budget, the A16 offers a similar AI-free experience with almost the same longevity. The A17's display, performance, and camera quality are adequate for everyday tasks, and the phone supports 5G connectivity. However, it lacks some higher-end features like wireless charging and an IP68 rating. Overall, the Galaxy A17 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a long-lasting, AI-free Android phone without breaking the bank.
Fairphone 6
Fairphone, a Dutch company founded in 2013, is a unique player in the smartphone market, often flying under the radar of mainstream consumers. The company's mission centers on repairability, environmental sustainability, and ethical sourcing. The Fairphone 6 is the latest model, continuing the legacy of modular design that makes all core components user-serviceable. The phone has earned a perfect 10/10 repair score from iFixit, a testament to its design philosophy. This focus on longevity extends to software support as well: Fairphone guarantees eight years of updates, outlasting both Google and Apple in that regard. The Fairphone 5, the previous generation, is still supported and expected to receive updates through 2031.
In terms of AI, the Fairphone 6 is refreshingly clean. The only AI support comes from Google services like Gemini, which Fairphone explicitly states can be disabled or removed entirely through standard settings. Since Fairphone uses a near-stock version of Android, there are no additional manufacturer AI features layered on top. The phone launched with Android 15 and now runs Android 16, with a clear upgrade path. For users seeking even stronger privacy, Fairphone offers an alternative version running Murena's /e/OS. This is a privacy-focused, open-source fork of LineageOS that strips out all proprietary Google apps and services, including Gemini and Play Services. Choosing this variant means a completely AI-free experience, though it does limit access to the Google ecosystem.
The main challenge with the Fairphone 6 lies in availability. At the time of writing, the phone is not widely sold in the United States. Fairphone has been slowly working on expanding its U.S. presence, but the /e/OS version is currently available through the Murena online store. International buyers in Europe and other regions can purchase it directly from Fairphone's website. The modular design also means that if a component fails, users can order a replacement part and fix it themselves rather than replacing the entire phone. This makes the Fairphone 6 an excellent choice for environmentally conscious users and those who want maximum control over their device's AI features and longevity.
OnePlus 12
The OnePlus 12 launched in early 2024 as a flagship contender that focused heavily on hardware and performance rather than AI gimmicks. In our hands-on evaluation, it was praised for being the right phone at the right price, with a stunning display, fast charging, and a capable camera system. OnePlus runs its custom OxygenOS on top of Android, and the latest version is based on Android 14. OxygenOS has a distinct look and feel that some Android users love and others find polarizing, so it's worth testing before committing. But for those who appreciate its clean aesthetics and smooth performance, the OnePlus 12 remains a top choice.
When the OnePlus 12 first shipped, it had no AI features integrated at the silicon level or in software. However, OnePlus later added some cloud-based AI functions through system updates based on Android 15. These include features like AI eraser for photos and intelligent search tools. The good news is that many of these can be disabled from the settings menu. In typical Android fashion, AI features tied to system apps can often be toggled off, and Google's AI services (like Gemini) can be manually disabled or uninstalled. For stubborn features that resist removal, third-party tools like Canta and Shizuku can help uninstall or disable system apps without requiring root access, though this requires some technical know-how.
The OnePlus 12's performance is still excellent in 2026, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, up to 16GB of RAM, and a 5400mAh battery that supports 100W wired charging (65W in the U.S.). Software support is competitive: OnePlus promises four major Android updates and five years of security patches. While that's less than Samsung or Fairphone, it's still sufficient for most users who plan to upgrade within three to four years. The OnePlus 12 strikes a balance between high-end hardware and the ability to avoid AI, making it a compelling option for power users who want to keep their phone free from unnecessary intelligence.
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Sony exited the U.S. smartphone market a few years ago, choosing not to bring its latest Xperia models to American shores. That includes the Xperia 1 VI, which launched in 2024, and its successor, the Xperia 1 VII. Sony's handsets have always targeted a niche audience: photography enthusiasts who prioritize dedicated camera hardware, manual controls, and high-resolution displays. The Xperia 1 VI features a 6.5-inch 4K OLED screen, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, and a triple-camera system with Zeiss optics. AI is intentionally limited on this phone.
The only area where AI appears on the Xperia 1 VI is in its camera software. Sony uses its proprietary Mobile Bravia image engine, which relies on certain AI algorithms to process photos and apply HDR effects. However, users can easily disable these AI enhancements in the camera settings, reverting to a more traditional processing pipeline. The phone does not include any other AI features like voice assistants beyond the standard Google services, and there is no on-device AI chip for tasks like real-time translation or generative photo editing. This makes the Xperia 1 VI one of the most AI-light flagships available.
Availability is the biggest hurdle for interested buyers. The Xperia 1 VI is sold primarily in Asia, Europe, and Canada. Importing the phone is possible, but buyers must be mindful of regional variants, as different versions support different 5G frequency bands. Not all carriers support the same bands, and using an incompatible version may result in limited or no 5G connectivity. The Sony Xperia 1 V, the previous generation, is also worth considering; it shares many of the same design principles and can often be found at a discount through used markets. Software support for the Xperia 1 VI includes three years of major OS updates and four years of security patches, which is adequate but shorter than some competitors. For users who prioritize camera control and want a smartphone that feels like a traditional device without AI clutter, the Sony Xperia 1 VI is a rare gem.
Source: SlashGear News