Samsung Introduces Advertisements on Smart Refrigerator Displays

Samsung has announced a significant software update for its Family Hub smart refrigerators, which brings new features and interface enhancements. Among these changes, the most notable is the introduction of advertisements displayed on the refrigerator's built-in screens, a move that is currently being rolled out in the United States.

The update includes an enhanced user interface based on Samsung's One UI platform, offering a more intuitive navigation experience. An updated screen feature, referred to as the 'Cover' widget, now appears when the refrigerator is not in use. This widget is designed to provide users with useful daily information, such as news updates, calendar events, and weather forecasts. However, the update also enables the display of advertisements alongside this information. The advertisements are context-based but not personalized, and are carefully selected to align with general user interests. Initially, only Samsung products are advertised, but the company is reportedly considering allowing third-party advertising in future iterations.

The refrigerator models equipped with these displays vary, offering screen sizes between 21.5 and 32 inches. While the advertising feature is active by default, Samsung has included options within the settings menu for users to manage their experience. Users can disable advertisements entirely, which will then replace the ads with images. However, opting out of ads also disables the entire Cover widget, removing access to the associated news, calendar, and weather features. Additionally, users can block specific ads selectively.

Beyond the new advertising capability, the software update brings practical enhancements to the refrigerator's core smart features. One notable improvement is the expanded AI-powered food recognition system, known as AI Vision Inside. This technology is now capable of identifying a broader range of fresh and packaged foods--up to 37 types of fresh produce and 50 packaged items. The primary aim of this feature is to help households reduce food waste by providing better inventory management and timely reminders about food items.

The update also enhances the Bixby voice assistant with new voice identification functions. Bixby can now recognize individual users, enabling personalized access to features such as personal calendars and photo galleries. Additionally, Bixby can assist in locating misplaced smartphones within the home environment.

With the integration of the One UI platform, users gain access to a familiar ecosystem of apps and services found on other Samsung devices, ensuring a more unified smart home experience. According to Samsung, the software update will begin rolling out on November 3, with device owners receiving notifications when the update becomes available for their specific refrigerator model. The update is optional and can be declined if users prefer to retain their current setup.

Samsung's Family Hub refrigerators, which fall within the premium segment and are priced between $1,900 and $3,500, continue to evolve with the integration of new digital features. The inclusion of advertisements marks a notable shift towards utilizing household appliances as platforms for digital content and commercial messaging, reflecting broader trends in the smart home industry.