Samsung has enhanced SmartThings by integrating family care functionalities designed for remote monitoring of elderly relatives. These features include fall detection using robot vacuum cameras, cognitive decline screening through behavioral pattern analysis, environmental safety alerts, and activity tracking. Additionally, the update introduces Galaxy AI-powered routine creation, millimeter-wave ambient sensing with local processing, and support for Matter cameras on the 500-million-user SmartThings platform.
These updates shift SmartThings closer to a remote care system by utilizing data from connected appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and wearables to assess home safety. Samsung’s broader SmartThings strategy for 2026 also emphasizes energy management tools and interoperability with Matter-compatible devices.
Care on Call provides caregivers with a snapshot of a monitored family member’s recent activities before a phone call. Reassurance Patrol uses Samsung’s robot vacuum for mobile monitoring and alerts caregivers if a person is detected lying on the floor. Care Insight monitors environmental conditions and analyzes device usage to detect potential health issues. Cognitive decline detection analyzes behavioral data to identify early signs of cognitive changes, notifying caregivers if necessary.
Samsung’s ambient sensing technology combines millimeter-wave radar with sound sensors in appliances to identify various activities in a home. All data is processed locally, ensuring privacy. Enhanced Map View uses generative AI to provide detailed spatial interfaces based on room photographs.
SmartThings supports more than 500 million users, leveraging Samsung’s extensive appliance ecosystem for comprehensive monitoring. The integration of Galaxy AI helps automate routines based on sensor data. However, the ethical implications of such monitoring highlight the need for clear communication about system capabilities and user consent.
The elder care features are expected to launch with the Galaxy S26 in 2026, with SmartThings Pro and energy management upgrades already available. Pricing details have not been disclosed.