Samsung Electronics has announced new updates for its SmartThings platform, adding new features that focus on making smart home automation more simple and personal. The updates aim to improve the experience for anyone using smart devices, whether they have Android or iOS. The changes include new tools that use artificial intelligence, easier ways to set up devices, better scheduling, and new options for sharing information between users.
A main change is the new Routine Creation Assistant. This tool uses artificial intelligence to help people set up automated tasks in their homes by using everyday language. For example, a user can type in a sentence like “Turn off all the lights when I leave the house” and SmartThings will create a routine that follows these instructions. The tool is powered by large language models and is meant to help both new and experienced users. It removes the need to go through each device and setting one by one, making it less confusing for people who may not be used to setting up smart home routines.
Another part of the update includes smarter scheduling and the option to confirm routines before they run. Users can now add time delays to routines, so actions can happen in a certain order with set gaps in between. For example, a morning routine could turn on the bedroom lights at a certain time, then turn on the coffee maker a few minutes later, and finally open the curtains and play music after another set time. There is also a new option called Confirm to Run Actions, which lets users decide whether to allow a routine to happen before it starts. This helps prevent mistakes, like turning on security settings when someone is still inside the house.
Samsung is also making it easier to add new products to SmartThings with its Calm Onboarding program. This feature helps users set up their new Samsung devices as soon as they are bought, either from Samsung’s website or a Samsung Store. The system can now automatically find, register, and connect the device to the SmartThings app, making the setup process quicker. Calm Onboarding is now available in 58 countries, up from 14 before. The program now includes Galaxy wearable products such as Galaxy Watch and Buds. Some devices from partner brands bought in Korea and the UK can also use this feature, and Samsung plans to expand support to more countries.
The SmartThings update also brings new options to SmartThings Find, a service that helps users track the location of items using SmartTags. More than 67 million people use this service. With the update, Galaxy users can share the location of their SmartTags through a link, making it easier for family and friends to help find lost items, even if they use iOS devices. This can help families keep track of things like bags, pets, or luggage.
For iOS users, SmartThings has added a new widget for Apple Watch. This means users can control lights, air conditioning, and routines from their wrist without needing to open the main app. This makes it easier to manage smart home devices while on the move.
Mark Benson, Head of SmartThings US, said these updates are meant to help users build a smart home that fits their habits and needs. Samsung plans to keep adding new features so users can spend less time setting up devices and more time doing other things. More information about the new SmartThings features can be found at smartthings.com.
View the original press release.
