TECNO upgrades Ella AI with practical features for smartphones
TECNO has revealed a major upgrade to its AI ecosystem at Mobile World Congress 2026, highlighting a new strategy called Practical AI designed to bring accessible and useful artificial intelligence features to everyday smartphone users.
At the center of this initiative is the enhanced TECNO Ella AI assistant, which now includes improved contextual understanding, learning support tools, and health related capabilities.
A practical approach to AI
TECNO emphasized that its goal is not simply to showcase advanced AI technology but to deliver tools that users can realistically benefit from in daily life.
According to the company, AI services across its devices were activated more than 500 million times in 2025, demonstrating growing interest from users who rely on smart assistants to manage tasks and information.
The new strategy focuses on Localized AI, ensuring that the assistant can understand different languages, cultural contexts, and regional needs.
This includes support for multiple dialects and the ability to function offline in areas where internet connectivity is limited.
TECNO has also partnered with regional services to allow users to perform tasks such as booking rides, ordering food, or purchasing mobile data packages using simple voice commands.
Education and health tools powered by AI
TECNO has also expanded AI features in the CAMON 50 Series smartphones to support education and health related functions.
A new contactless health scanning system allows users to perform a basic health check using facial recognition technology.
For learning, the company introduced AI Problem Solving, which helps students understand homework problems and allows parents to assist children with studying more effectively.
Another feature called AI English Coach provides interactive support for improving English language skills.
A redesigned Ella AI experience
The upgraded Ella AI assistant is integrated into the HiOS 16 operating system, offering a redesigned interface focused on convenience and quick access.
Users can access Ella by swiping left to open the Minus One Screen, where a collection of AI powered tools and services are available in one place.
The assistant now features stronger contextual awareness. For example, it can:
- Summarize videos from YouTube
- Read and respond to messages on WhatsApp
- Suggest useful actions throughout the day using a Dynamic Island style interface
These improvements transform Ella from a simple voice assistant into a more proactive digital companion.
AI designed for emerging markets
TECNO concluded that the long term vision of Practical AI is to make artificial intelligence accessible to everyone, particularly in emerging markets where localized technology solutions are essential.
By focusing on language support, regional services, and real-world use cases, the company aims to ensure that AI features are not only advanced but also practical and widely usable.
 Origin: Tecno
