Samsung Integrates One UI and Bixby into Home Appliances at IFA

At the recent IFA event, Samsung announced the expansion of its One UI interface and Bixby voice assistant to its range of home appliances. This development aims to create a cohesive and user-friendly software environment across its product ecosystem.

Previously recognized on Samsung smartphones, wearables, and televisions, One UI will now enhance the functionality of home appliances, beginning with models released in September 2024. Samsung's initiative is designed to offer consumers an intuitive and unified experience when interacting with various devices.

Jeong Seung Moon, the Executive Vice President and Head of Research and Development for Samsung's Digital Appliances division, noted that the introduction of One UI into smart home devices is set to transform how users engage with technology at home. The update will incorporate applications and services such as Bixby, the Gallery app, and Samsung TV Plus into appliances like refrigerators. This integration aims to facilitate seamless interaction and media use across devices while enhancing connectivity through Samsung's SmartThings platform.

One notable feature stemming from this update is the 'Now Brief' assistance function, which debuted with the Galaxy S25. Designed to deliver relevant information at a glance, it will be tailored for household appliances, providing curated content such as daily weather forecasts, family schedules, personalized recipes, and updates on appliance status, such as laundry completion times. However, it is important to note that the deployment of Now Brief for refrigerators and other appliances is not expected until 2026.

The software update will first be available for compatible appliances from the 2024 model year, which will include improved security features through Knox Matrix for Wi-Fi-enabled refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, and induction cooktops. Samsung has stated that the update will also monitor the status of all connected devices and provide enhanced security options, including encrypted login credentials and support for passkeys in models equipped with displays.

Samsung's 2024 refrigerators featuring Family Hub technology and 9-inch screens will also receive an upgraded 'AI Vision Inside' capability, which is designed to recognize a broader variety of fresh produce and frequently used packaged foods. Additionally, Bixby will support voice recognition on shared devices, enhancing user convenience.

To ensure continued support, Samsung is committing to a seven-year update guarantee for its home appliances, similar to the coverage provided for its flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S25 series and its foldable devices. This commitment, while generous, may seem short given that many consumers retain their washing machines and refrigerators for a decade or longer.

In parallel, Samsung is set to initiate the rollout of One UI 8, based on Android 16, beginning this September, with the Galaxy S25 series being the first to receive the new operating system. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 models, which were introduced earlier in July, will also come equipped with this updated interface.