Samsung has launched SmartThings WiFi, a mesh wifi router that it said combines smart home networking and artificial intelligence (AI).
The company said it boosts WiFi coverage at home and at the same time manage network resources and smart home systems.
“Samsung is optimizing AI technology for IoT to streamline users’ everyday lives. SmartThings even deliver a consistent experience across the entire Samsung ecosystem, allowing consumers to enjoy a seamless and uncomplicated connected life,” said Yiyin Zhao, Managing Director of Samsung Electronics H.K. Co. Ltd.
At the Samsung Developers Conference in San Francisco last year, Samsung executives have unveiled an elaborate plan to connect people and devices at home anchored on its SmartThings platform.
The company sells more than 500 million devices and will be diving fully head-on into developing the internet of things (IoT) ecosystem, according to Eui-Suk Chung, EVP, Head of Software, and Artificial Intelligence.
The newly introduced SmartThings Wi-Fi would allow users to connect a whole range of Samsung mobile products and home appliances through SmartThings as well as SmartThings-compatible third-party products.
Utilizing multiple access points, each with a coverage area of up to 1,500 square feet, the router can extend coverage to up to 32 devices.
Samsung said it also serves as a smart home network that can connect to electronic products and appliances bearing the “Work with SmartThings” label, including smartphones, tablets, televisions, washing machines, air conditioners, refrigerators, and more.
Users can also use it to connect to other accessories, including SmartThings Hub, smart power plugs, smart lighting, and sensors. Meanwhile, its voice assistant Bixby can be used to control smart devices through voice demands on Galaxy phones.
For the AI function, Samsung is collaborating with Plume.