Samsung Enhances SmartThings with Natural Language Routines and More User-Friendly Features

Samsung is introducing several new features to its SmartThings smart home platform, aimed at simplifying the setup and management of home automation routines. One of the most significant updates is theRoutine Creation Assistant, which allows users to automate their homes using natural language commands. Instead of manually configuring each device or setting, users can simply type phrases like “turn off all the lights whenever I leave the house,” and SmartThings will handle the details. This feature addresses a common pain point in home automation—complex and time-consuming setup processes—making it more user-friendly and potentially increasing adoption rates. Similar AI-powered automation tools are being developed by Google (through its Gemini integration) and Amazon (with Alexa Plus), but Samsung's Routine Creation Assistant is already available to users in Korea and the US on both Android and iOS platforms. In addition to the Routine Creation Assistant, SmartThings is introducing the Delay Actions feature, allowing users to schedule multiple timed steps within a single routine. For example, a “Good Morning” routine can now turn on bedroom lights at 7:00 a.m., start the coffee maker 15 minutes later, and open curtains while playing music after 30 minutes. This is currently available in the SmartThings app. To enhance control, the Confirm to Run Actions feature adds a notification step to confirm before executing a routine. This helps prevent accidental actions, particularly in shared households. For instance, a security mode that activates upon exiting the house can be confirmed to avoid locking out other family members. The SmartThings app on Apple Watch is receiving an update with a new widget, enabling faster device control right from the wrist. Users can switch between locations and control individual devices without needing to pull out their phones, making tasks like unlocking doors or turning on lights more convenient. Samsung’s Virtual Home feature is now live for all users, allowing them to simulate smart home scenarios without purchasing actual devices. This feature can help users understand how SmartThings works and how they might improve routines by adding new smart devices. SmartThings Find, Samsung’s location-tracking service for Galaxy SmartTags, is getting a new URL sharing option. While the URL can only be created on a Galaxy phone, it can be viewed on any internet-connected device, including iPhones, making it easier to share the location of lost items with friends and family. Lastly, Samsung is expanding its Calm Onboarding program from 14 to 58 countries, including support for the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds. This simplified setup process automatically detects, registers, and connects compatible Samsung products to the SmartThings app. The feature works with a range of 2025 Samsung appliances, 2024 TVs, air conditioners, air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, ovens, and Family Hub refrigerators. Users need to opt in to this feature by enabling “Add My Device Automatically” in the SmartThings app. Industry experts view these updates positively, seeing them as a significant step forward in making smart home technology more accessible and user-friendly. Samsung’s commitment to enhancing the user experience is evident, and these features are likely to attract more users to the SmartThings platform. The company's strategic move to integrate natural language processing and automated onboarding aligns well with the broader trend in the tech industry towards simplifying complex technologies for mainstream use. Samsung remains a key player in the smart home market, with SmartThings showcasing its commitment to innovation and user convenience.