Samsung Unveils SmartThings Now in Platform Update
Samsung Electronics has announced a significant update to its global connected living platform, introducing SmartThings Now alongside a redesigned Home tab and expanded local control features.
Radwan AbdulhadiEditor and technology writer
Platform Update Expands Reach
Samsung Electronics has officially announced its latest platform update for [Samsung SmartThings](https://news.samsung.com/global/tag/samsung-smartthings), its global connected living platform. According to the company's announcement available via [Press Releases](https://news.samsung.com/global/category/press-resources/press-release), the service now serves 470 million registered users and supports more than 430 Works with SmartThings-certified brands worldwide.
The new update introduces [SmartThings Now](https://news.samsung.com/global/tag/smartthings-now) directly at the top of the Home tab, refreshes the app layout, and expands local device control capabilities. The changes are designed to help users access relevant information more efficiently, take quick actions, and manage their smart home devices with greater reliability.
Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of the SmartThings Team at Samsung's AI Platform Center, stated that the update represents another milestone in moving beyond a system where users search for features manually. By delivering relevant data and controls at the right moment, the update aims to push the boundaries of intelligent home automation.
Redesigned Home Tab and SmartThings Now
At the core of the refreshed user interface is SmartThings Now, which appears as cards at the top of the Home tab. Building on previous Home Insight features, it combines relevant information with immediate actions based on a user's current situation.
For instance, if a member tracked through [SmartThings Family Care](https://news.samsung.com/global/tag/smartthings-family-care) shows no device activity for an extended period, the system surfaces a care card allowing caregivers to check in or call. Similarly, when a user arrives near a pre-registered home location, SmartThings Now can suggest turning on lights and air purifiers in advance, later prompting the creation of automated routines.
Furthermore, the feature analyzes activity from the past week to suggest updates to Home tab Favorites, adapting to seasonal changes such as adjusting air conditioner or air dresser cards. Users can also manage routines using the Routine Insight card to review and delete unnecessary automations.
Streamlined Navigation and Visual Enhancements
The updated Home tab organizes key information into a more streamlined view covering dashboards, device cards, and service cards. Service cards now utilize a space-efficient design to display more services on a single screen along with precise numerical readings.
Visual updates also include Live Wallpaper that changes dynamically throughout the day. Additionally, a new Floating Bar places frequently used features at the bottom of the screen to improve one-handed use on larger smartphones, aligning with recent One UI design principles.
Enhanced Local Control and Offline Reliability
To address network stability, Samsung has introduced local control technology that allows users to operate connected devices reliably during internet service disruptions or local network changes. When a mobile device and a SmartThings Hub share a Wi-Fi network, communication occurs directly rather than through the cloud.
Samsung notes that local control can improve response times by approximately 30% compared to cloud-based routing. The application automatically switches between local and remote control depending on user proximity, while an updated Offline Device Diagnostics page helps restore offline hardware by updating network settings across all registered devices simultaneously.
Matter 1.6 and Expanded Ecosystem Support
The platform update incorporates support for Matter 1.6, the latest smart home connectivity standard from the Connectivity Standards Alliance, which improves stability and Group Control performance. Additionally, the update expands compatibility to four new device categories, including Soil Sensors for measuring ground conditions.
The updated interface features are rolling out across supported mobile devices, Samsung Smart TVs, Family Hub refrigerators, appliances equipped with 7-inch or 9-inch screens, and Windows devices. Users seeking additional assistance can visit the official [Customer Support page](https://samsung.com/support) or reach out through the [Media Contact](https://news.samsung.com/global/media-contact) portal for inquiries.
Sources
- Samsung Global NewsroomSamsung Introduces ‘SmartThings Now’ in New Platform Update That Brings More Intuitive User Experiences
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