SHANGHAI: Chinese technology companies are racing to launch a new generation of artificial intelligence-powered smartphones capable of performing everyday tasks—from ordering food and comparing shopping prices to composing messages—through simple voice commands. The devices, known as agentic smartphones, were among the key attractions at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, where at least three companies showcased AI-first handsets that promise to transform how people interact with their phones. Smartphone manufacturer Nubia unveiled its NaviX Ultra, powered by Doubao, the popular AI chatbot developed by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. Describing the launch as the beginning of "a new era of AI agent smartphones," the company said the device is designed to execute complex tasks across multiple apps without requiring users to switch between them. Interest in the technology has already been strong. A limited-edition prototype, the Doubao Phone, sold out shortly after its release in December. The device allowed users to complete tasks such as ordering meals, comparing online prices and managing everyday digital activities using natural voice commands. However, the rollout also exposed a major challenge facing AI-powered smartphones. Within days of the prototype's launch, Chinese technology giants Alibaba, Tencent and JD.com restricted the AI assistant's access to their platforms, preventing it from interacting freely with their apps. The restrictions significantly reduced the phone's ability to perform cross-platform tasks. In response, ByteDance disabled several AI agent functions in specific situations, particularly those involving financial transactions and payments. The dispute highlights a growing battle over the future of mobile technology. While AI developers envision smartphones that can seamlessly manage services across multiple platforms, major app providers remain cautious about surrendering control over customer interactions, data and digital transactions. Industry observers believe agentic AI could redefine the smartphone experience in the coming years, but widespread adoption will depend not only on technological advances but also on greater cooperation between AI developers and platform operators.