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Samsung Debuts SmartThings Now for Users

On October 6, 2026, Samsung Electronics announced an exciting update to its connected living platform, SmartThings, which boasts over 470 million registered users and compatibility with over 430 Works with SmartThings (WWST) certified brands. At the heart of this update is the launch of "SmartThings Now," found at the top of the home tab. This innovative feature not only enhances usability but also expands local control functionalities, ensuring that intelligent management of connected devices remains possible even during network disruptions.

Jaeyeon Jung, Vice President of Samsung Electronics and Head of the SmartThings Team at the AI Platform Center, stated, "SmartThings continues to evolve the user's smart home experience, transitioning from merely exploring features to enjoying a more intelligent home. This update takes us a step further in delivering timely information and actions, allowing users to manage their daily lives more seamlessly."

Revolutionizing the Home Tab with SmartThings Now

SmartThings Now is characterized by a card format that displays essential information and actionable options seamlessly at the top of the home tab. By building upon the original "Home Insight" feature, it enhances personalized suggestions for users based on their needs. For example, if a family member's device has not been used for an extended period, a "Care Card" suggesting a wellness check or phone call appears to the caregiver. Additionally, when approaching the registered home location, users receive a suggestion to activate lights or air purifiers ahead of their arrival. If the user takes this action, SmartThings can remember it, automatically executing similar tasks in the future.

The SmartThings Now functionality allows for a tailored experience based on individual usage patterns. By analyzing a week’s activities, the system recommends adjustments to favored devices, services, and routines. For instance, as users transition into cooler seasons and the air conditioner is used less, the card for the AC might be removed. Conversely, if anAirDresser’s utilization increases, it will suggest adding the dresser card. Users can also access details on their routine status through the Routine Insight card to manage their automations effectively.

The revamped home tab intelligently organizes critical information, including dashboards, device cards, and service cards, displaying them in a user-friendly format that optimizes viewing across devices ranging from mobile phones to Samsung Smart TVs.

The design incorporates more effective use of screen space, allowing users to check device statuses and data easily. In addition, a feature called "Live Wallpaper" transitions naturally based on the time of day, adding dynamic visual engagement.

Strengthening Local Control for Offline Performance

One of the most noteworthy upgrades in this update is the enhanced local control technology. These improvements ensure that users can continue to control their devices reliably, even when facing changes in home network environments or external internet service issues. If mobile devices connect to the same Wi-Fi as SmartThings Hub, commands can be sent directly, bypassing the cloud and resulting in approximately a 30% faster response time. Consequently, even with temporary network instability, operating connected devices remains straightforward.

SmartThings automatically distinguishes between local control and remote cloud-based operations, adapting to whether mobile devices are at home or on the go. The diagnostics for offline devices have also been updated, enabling the rapid restoration of connections across all registered devices with a new network summary.

Moreover, Samsung confirms additional compatibility with the latest smart home connection standards established by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), significantly boosting reliability and group control capabilities. SmartThings Now can now support four new device categories, including Energy Meters for real-time electricity monitoring and Irrigation devices for automated watering tasks.

As we embrace the future of smart homes, Samsung’s SmartThings continues to redefine user interactions, significantly enhancing daily conveniences and offering a more connected living experience.