Samsung Unveils Vision for Open Ecosystems in Home AI at CES 2026

Samsung Unveils Vision for Open Ecosystems at CES 2026

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. kicked off CES 2026 by gathering industry leaders to discuss the crucial role of interoperability in smart homes during its inaugural Tech Forum session. Hosted at The Wynn in Las Vegas, the session titled "When Everything Clicks: How Open Ecosystems Deliver Impactful AI" highlighted transformative cross-industry partnerships in creating intelligent living environments.

Emphasizing Openness in Home Intelligence

The consensus among panelists was clear: the next stage of home intelligence will thrive on open collaboration rather than restricted ecosystems. As households increasingly integrate devices and services from various brands, the need for open systems that harmoniously work together becomes evident. Samsung believes that open connectivity is essential, as it enables appliances, energy systems, safety services, and cross-industry partners to create experiences that are unattainable in isolated settings.

Yoonho Choi, President and Chair of the Home Connectivity Alliance, and Head of Strategic Alliances at Samsung Electronics, emphasized, "Home is the most personal place in our lives, so home AI must earn trust — quietly, respectfully, and with value users can feel." He noted that true interoperability requires brands to collaborate, enabling the home to function as a cohesive unit instead of a collection of disconnected features. Through cooperation with the Home Connectivity Alliance and various industries, Samsung aims to translate openness into tangible outcomes: safer homes, simplified routines, and measurable savings, all founded on principles of consent and transparency.

The Power of a Connected Home Ecosystem

Samsung also showcased the vast and rich connected ecosystem it has developed over the years, revealing that more than 500 million users are part of the SmartThings community. With over a decade of leading the charge in connected living, Samsung has garnered in-depth insights into how the concept of AI companionship within homes is progressing, from today’s smart devices to the envisioned future of system-wide intelligence.

This solid groundwork allows Samsung to curate AI experiences that seamlessly coordinate among various appliances and services, providing users with value that feels intuitive rather than overly technical. Michael Wolf, founder and editor-in-chief of The Spoon, remarked, "It's crucial to deliver tangible user benefits that make people's lives better. Along these lines, there's no area that will bring more benefit than a broadly connected kitchen — one that allows users to understand what's in their refrigerator while connecting to water and heating networks for a more holistic understanding that takes preventative action."

Collaboration Leading to Consumer Benefits

Furthermore, the panel discussed how open ecosystems can translate into measurable advantages for consumers through cross-industry collaborations. Samsung highlighted its groundbreaking partnership with Hartford Steam Boiler (HSB), showcasing how responsible and transparent use of smart home data can lead to meaningful outcomes.

Jed Usich, Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth Solutions at HSB, noted, "We're at a point where the connected home can bring seamless integration into user lifestyles, which begins to develop trust in smart home equipment that results in direct benefits to consumers." This partnership creates a pathway to align consumer data with the insurance sector, allowing for the transformation of simple data points into significant savings for users.

Making AI Feel Human

Throughout the discussion, it became apparent that for home AI to flourish, it should exhibit emotional intelligence and fit naturally into daily routines, encompassing activities like cooking, relaxing, entertaining, and caring for families. Utilizing design, storytelling, and behavioral understanding, panelists highlighted the importance of ensuring connected devices feel like dependable companions, rather than intrusive technology.

In conclusion, the future of home AI hinges on interoperability, responsible data practices, and collaborative efforts across industries, delivering genuine value while safeguarding user trust. As AI becomes more pervasive and system-wide, Samsung is devoted to fostering open ecosystems that render connected living simpler, safer, and more meaningful. The narrative is clear: when all aspects align, home AI can genuinely enhance daily life.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung is dedicated to inspiring the world and shaping the future through groundbreaking ideas and technologies. The company is redefining various sectors, including TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances, and network systems, alongside advancements in medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions, and robotics. Through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaborations, Samsung continues to enhance the connected experience for users. To stay updated, visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.