AI in Your Pocket: Super Apps, Floating Assistants & the Future

ChatGPT Widgets: The Rise of Always-On AI

The line between our reality and AI is blurring. We're seeing this with new widgets like ChatGPT integrations that bring AI directly to our lock screens, allowing for quick interactions without opening the full app. This "AI always on" concept is intriguing, but adoption is still limited.

Enter Haishio (海螺), a fascinating take on this idea. Imagine an Assistive Touch-like floating orb always present on your screen. Tap it to access a curated set of functions, powered by ChatGPT. Think of it as a mini AI assistant, ready at your fingertips.

Here's where things get really clever:

  • Seamless Activation: Instead of traditional button presses, Haishio leverages screen recognition technology developed by its creators, MiniMax. This avoids privacy concerns associated with constantly listening for voice commands.
  • Contextual Interactions: By default, tapping Haishio captures a screenshot of your current screen and sends it to ChatGPT, similar to Copilot on a phone.
  • Real-World Use Cases: Imagine using Haishio to write product reviews, snag coupons on platforms like Yelp or Meituan, or even analyze complex game strategies in real time. The possibilities are vast, especially for situations where direct text input is impractical.

Leveling Up with Voice Control:

Haishio could get even more powerful with a long-press gesture. This could activate voice input, allowing you to have a natural conversation with AI while simultaneously sharing your current screen context.

Imagine playing Hearthstone and asking Haishio for advice on your hand – it could analyze the cards, suggest plays, and even draft text responses for in-game chat.

The Future of Super Apps:

While traditional "Super App" models might be facing challenges due to rapid AI innovation, I believe there's still an opportunity for "Super Entrances", platforms that seamlessly integrate AI into our lives.

These AI-powered interfaces won't just provide functionality; they'll become extensions of ourselves, constantly adapting and learning based on our needs and preferences. Think about it – the future might be less about downloading apps and more about interacting with personalized AI companions through intuitive gestures and natural language.

This is an exciting time for AI development. We're witnessing a paradigm shift where technology isn't just about functionality but also about human connection and augmentation.

Back to blog

Leave a comment