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In further evidence that the internet of things (IoT) is set to take over the world in 2016, Samsung has announced its entire line of smart TVs coming next year will be “IoT ready”.
This means that the new line of ultra high definition televisions will be connected not only to the internet – like most modern smart TVs, but also to Samsung’s SmartThings platform, which will enable it to work with and control other sensors and devices on the platform that a user has around the home.
For example, if you happen to have smart light bulbs and speakers in your home, you will now be able to connect both to your TV, automatically changing the lights and sound set-up in your home when you turn on the TV to watch a movie or sport.
The idea at the centre of the “smart home” – an area where Samsung is launching an increasing number of products – is to give control and personalisation over more parts of the house to users. Of course security is a key factor too, with many firms already creating sensors that enable users to monitor comings and goings at their home via a smartphone or tablet, even when they’re out of the house.
Samsung bought SmartThings in 2014 for $200m (£134.9m).
Alex Hawkinson, the co-founder of SmartThings, said: “With Samsung Smart TVs working with the SmartThings technology, we have an opportunity to reach millions of households.
“Applying this technology into current household devices is a major step forwards that will make it much easier for everyone to experience the benefits of a smart home.”
In connecting their TVs to the SmartThings platform, Samsung also confirmed that feeds from home security cameras could be viewed on-screen as well.
Hyun Suk Kim, the president of Samsung’s visual display business, said: “The 2016 line-up of Smart TVs will offer consumers new possibilities and cement Samsung’s market leading position, as the first company to launch IoT ready TVs.”
