In August 2025, Deutsche Telekom boldly brought artificial intelligence into the mainstream with the launch of the Telekom AI Phone, centered on the T Phone 3. This AI Smartphone isn’t just another handset—it features deep integration with the Perplexity Assistant, activated instantly via a dedicated magenta button. Available from €149 (or just €1 with a contract), this device bundles 18 months of Perplexity Pro, 3 months of Picsart Pro, and positions AI as a ready-to-use tool—no app hunting required. This article explores whether this represents a real step forward for AI in the mass market or a clever marketing play.
Overview: What Is the Telekom AI Phone?
- Base Model: The device is the T Phone 3, equipped with AI as a central user interface.
- Launch Date: Released on August 14, 2025 across Germany and nine other European markets.
- Price: Priced at €149 standalone; drops to €1 with a subscription plan.
- AI Integration: Powered by the Perplexity Assistant—deeply embedded and accessible via button press or double-tap power key.
- Value Bundle: Includes 18 months of Perplexity Pro and 3 months of Picsart Pro.
Perplexity Assistant: Smarter Than Your Average AI
Why Perplexity? Deutsche Telekom opted for Perplexity over ChatGPT or Gemini, banking on its reliable, sourced answers rather than creativity.
Use Cases:
- Cooking Help: Show ingredients, get recipes instantly.
- Travel Planner: Suggest itineraries, hotels, reservations, and calendar entries.
- Communication Aid: Summarize emails, write messages, translate menus in real time.
- Creative Support: Craft a bedtime story or generate personalized content.
How It Works: Activated via magenta button or power button, the AI can see, listen, and understand—interacting with screen content, voice input, or objects in view.
Hardware Highlights: T Phone 3 & T Tablet 2
T Phone 3 (AI Phone)
- Display: ~6.58″ LTPS LCD, 120Hz.
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3.
- Battery: 5,000 mAh with 25W charging.
- Camera Setup: Dual rear—50 MP main + 2 MP macro; front 13 MP selfie camera.
- Build: IP54 rating, durable design, and enhanced sustainability (#GreenMagenta label; Eco rating 90/100).
- AI Features: Integrates Picsart Pro for instant image editing, adds AI translation and “Circle to Search.”
T Tablet 2 (AI Tablet)
- Display: 10.1″ TCL NXTPAPER, easy on the eyes with three modes: Ink Paper, Color Paper, Regular.
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity (MT8755); 5G support and dual SIM.
- Battery: 6,000 mAh with 15W charging.
- Extras: Optional T-Pen (€29.95); sustainable design with 75% post-consumer recycled plastic.
- Software Support: Promises 5 Android upgrades and 6 years of security updates.
Broad Rollout Across Europe
- Devices launched in Germany, Austria, Croatia, Czechia, Greece, Hungary, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, and Slovakia, with localized pricing.
Telekom AI Pricing & Subscription Model
- Telekom AI Phone price: €149 standalone or €1 with a contract.
- Telekom Tablet: €199 standalone; €1 with plan.
- Includes 18 months of Perplexity Pro (~$360 value) and 3 months of Picsart Pro.
- Users without new devices can still access AI via the Magenta AI feature in the MeinMagenta App.
What This Means for Users and the Market
Making AI Accessible
This launch places AI capabilities—like AI speech assistant, image editing, and real-time translation—into the hands of mass consumers for under €150. Deutsche Telekom is aiming to democratize AI, not just showcase innovation.
Redefining the Smartphone Interface
By using AI as the primary interface—rather than apps—Telekom moves toward an “app-less” future. The AI assistant prioritizes direct answers and actions, aligning with trends explored at MWC.
Market Timing
Industry forecasts suggest that by 2028, 70% of smartphones shipped will feature generative AI capabilities. Telekom is establishing this as mainstream now, not later.
Sustainability and Support
The devices are built with eco-policies in mind and backed by multi-year software support—adding substantial long-term value.
Looking Ahead
An enhanced AI phone model, dubbed the Pro edition, is slated for release in late 2025, boasting significant upgrades and advanced capabilities.
Final Thoughts: Is This the AI Phone Breakthrough?
The Telekom AI Phone may not be the most technically advanced device, but it hits a powerful sweet spot: affordability, thoughtful AI integration, sustainability, and long-term support. At just €149 and with added software subscriptions, it makes AI approachable for millions of users—not just tech-savvy enthusiasts.
Whether you call it a smartphone with AI or simply a clever “AI phone,” Deutsche Telekom may have just moved the needle on what smartphones could and should be by 2025. And as generative AI becomes a standard feature, Telekom is launching today with its finger on the pulse of what mainstream users truly need.
FAQs – Telekom AI Phone
What is the Telekom AI Phone?
It’s the T Phone 3—a budget to mid-range device with a deeply embedded Perplexity AI assistant, accessible via a magenta or power button.
What is the Telekom AI Phone price?
Available for €149 separately, or just €1 with a qualifying Telekom subscription—including 1.5 years of Perplexity Pro and 3 months of Picsart Pro at no extra cost.
What AI is used in the phone?
The Perplexity Assistant delivers sourced answers, handles tasks, and interacts via voice, text, or camera.
Is it available outside Germany?
Yes—in ten European countries, including Austria, Poland, Greece, and more. Availability and pricing vary by region.
Can I get AI on my existing phone?
Yes—Telekom integrates AI capabilities directly into the MeinMagenta app via its Magenta AI feature, allowing users to access premium artificial intelligence tools without requiring upgraded hardware.