Samsung has launched a SmartThings Hub with a video monitoring capability and new sensors, at the recent IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin. The Hub can be used to control lights and connect smart thermostats, security cameras and other smart home gadgets with the use of ZigBee and Z-Wave radios.
The Samsung SmartThings Hub is currently available only in US and will hit the UK market on September 10th. The launch is considered as a kick start in the evolution of IoT which reflects an idea of a home where everything is connected with an internet. The idea helped Samsung to regain the lost momentum in areas like smartphones and tablets.
The SmartThings Hub costs $99 with sensors available in the range of $30 to $55. It has a backup battery that lasts ten hours and is capable to perform many functions locally in between gadgets which means it can operate without an internet connection.
The Hub, along with a range of SmartThings branded devices, will also work with other products from Samsung and accessories from brands like Philips, Honeywell, Yale, Aeon and others.
Andy Griffiths, President of Samsung U.K and Ireland said, “We believe a connected home will provide users with more information, more piece of mind and more control in their lives- but privacy is fundamental.”
The Samsung SmartThings Hub has also created “The Smart Home Monitor” which provides information about break-ins, fire alerts and smoke while operating around the Hub.
SmartThings also updated its iOS and Android application for simpler functionality of remote control of the smart home system. The purpose behind redesigning the system includes resolving some reliability issues faced by its predecessors.
“We have a different philosophy for our IoT vision, not hidden behind a walled garden, but open and interoperable with many devices.” said Griffiths.
