Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that, in collaboration with the Carbon Trust and other major tech companies, it has launched a new methodology for measuring the emissions and reductions linked to the use-phase of connected devices, such as laptops and speakers.

The launch of this methodology is part of Samsung’s participation in the Decarbonising the Use-Phase of Connected Devices (DUCD) initiative, through which the company has teamed up with the Carbon Trust, Amazon, Microsoft, and Sky to tackle the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from use-phase electricity consumption of internet-connected electrical and electronic products.

These organisations are focusing on the use-phase in particular because it is typically the largest source of product’s carbon emissions throughout its entire lifetime. Globally, connected devices currently require approximately 500 terawatt-hours (TWh) of energy annually — similar to France’s total energy use. Therefore, understanding and accounting for products’ carbon impact and finding ways to drive down emissions while devices are being used is a priority for the tech industry.

This new methodology sets out how companies can assess and report emissions using data drawn from devices that are being used by their customers, enhancing the accuracy of reporting that has until now relied upon lifetime forecasts used in current emissions accounting. Tech firms will also be able to account for emissions reductions that have been achieved in the process of using the methodology.

The annual reporting of use-phase emissions and reporting of emissions reductions will lead to increased transparency in communication to consumers, incentivising companies to make reductions while products are still being used. The standardisation and accuracy of the data will also guide companies to identify innovative solutions to further reduce the carbon impact of their devices.

Samsung’s contributions to launching the new DUCD methodology are a continuation of the company’s commitment to finding new ways to help save energy. This type of innovation is exemplified by SmartThings Energy, which empowers users to track their energy usage and make better energy decisions, as well as AI Energy Mode, which considers usage patterns and electricity rates to help users better manage energy usage[1].

“The use-phase emissions make up the lion’s share of our products’ carbon emissions across their lifecycle, and measuring is key to managing and reducing emissions,” said Inhee Chung, Vice President of the Corporate Sustainability Center at Samsung Electronics. “At Samsung, engaging and empowering consumers through our energy saving solutions is a key element of our climate strategy, and we look forward to applying the DUCD methodology to demonstrate how our SmartThings platform and its AI Energy Mode support  consumers to monitor and help reduce the energy use of their connected devices.”

“Connected devices are becoming increasingly relevant in everyday life and so it was important to bring key players in the technology industry together to start to address use-phase emissions now. This collaboration has produced a significantly improved approach for the calculation and reporting of carbon emissions and reductions achieved from connected devices and lays the foundation for further efforts to address emissions in this challenging area,” said Felix Prettejohn, Senior Consultant at the Carbon Trust.

[1] The SmartThings App is available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. Users are required to utilise a single log-in account between the devices.

When it comes to household chores, laundry likely ranks among the more time-consuming tasks. Samsung’s AI-integrated appliances are here to offer the support you need as you care for yourself, your family and home. The new Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo comes with AI-powered capabilities that turn this household struggle into a faster, smarter and easier experience.

A washer and dryer all in one, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo will do the hard work for you while you reclaim your time at home.

One companion is all you need

Washing and drying one’s clothes can sometimes be a logistical nightmare. From ensuring there’s enough hanging space for all your clothes to accidentally leaving your clothes in the washing machine overnight, laundry can be a much easier process.

With its All-in-one design, the Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo seamlessly integrates a washer and dryer into a single unit, freeing up valuable space in your utility area or closet. This also means that you don’t have to go through the hassle of transferring your laundry to a dryer or hanging it up on your racks for it to dry. Just sit back and relax while the Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo does the heavy lifting.

Stop thinking, start washing

Al Wash & Dry detects fabrics, adjusting settings as needed

Let the washing and drying process be streamlined with the intelligent sensing capabilities of the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo. The AI Wash & Dry[1] feature helps you take the guesswork out of adding detergent or choosing the wash setting, by sensing your laundry’s weight to dispense the right amount of water and detergent.

For delicate fabrics, AI Wash & Dry also adjusts the drying process according to the type of fabrics[2] detected.

Quick and energy-saving

Wash and dry your clothes in 98 minutes[3] with the Super Speed cycle

Select AI OptiWash and Dry cycle and enable the AI Energy Mode using the SmartThings app to enjoy savings on energy usage. It consumes 60%less energy during the wash cycle at 40 degrees and with two rinses on high spin. It also uses 20% less energy during the dry cycle when compared to using the same cycle without AI Energy Mode. By using the SmartThings App you can also easily monitor energy consumption for connected products and get your estimated electricity costs[4][5].

Take laundry off your mind today

SmartThings Clothing Care sends tips to keep your laundry fresh wherever you are

Integrate this AI-equipped companion into your way of doing things. Control your washing process all from the AI Home[6], a sleek 7-inch touch LCD display on the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo that lets you set AI-customised courses while providing information on detergent levels, energy consumption and water usage.

The Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo can also fit right into every smart home. It allows voice control with Bixby and connects to other compatible appliances through the SmartThings app[7] for smarter, easier usage and control through Samsung’s connected platforms and services – for you to enjoy more and do less, starting today.

[1] AI Wash & Dry’s detection and sensing capabilities are based on our deep learning models trained using predefined set of data and may yield inaccurate or incorrect results. New datasets may be introduced to our learning models from time to time to enhance its accuracy.

[2] A turbidity sensor operates for all weights, while fabric sensing operates for 8lbs and under. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.

[3] Based on using a Super Speed cycle with an 10lb DOE load (cotton 50% + polyester 50%). Dryer only: with a Residual Moisture Content of 48% after a wash cycle.

[4] Tested on the WD18DB8995BZSA Samsung Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo comparing results with AI Energy Mode turned on (Wash –Avg0.11055kWh / Dry –Avg. 1.0150) and off (Wash -Avg0.31911kWh / Dry –Avg. 1.2791kWh). Tested with 3kg Cotton base load and using AI OptiWash and Dry cycle. Actual energy saving may vary, depending on variables including the wash and/or dry cycle, type of detergent and laundry material.

[5] Available via the SmartThings App on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

[6] Does not mean all services available on the AI Home are AI or generate information or outcomes using AI. The services/features that use deep learning models are limited to AI Smart Dial, AI Opti Wash & Dry, and Voice enabled with Bixby. The learning models may be updated from time to time and may generate incomplete or incorrect information.

[7] The SmartThings App is available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

“Tesla Energy’s customers can now manage and monitor the power status of their homes through SmartThings Energy and Samsung devices in addition to the Tesla app, ensuring more access and connectivity,” said Chanwoo Park, EVP and Head of IoT Development Team of Device Platform Center at Samsung Electronics. “This new collaboration is a key milestone for Samsung Electronics in making our solution more widely available beyond home appliances.”

The key consumer benefit of Samsung’s collaboration with Tesla allows SmartThings Energy to connect to Tesla Powerwall, Solar Inverter, Wall Connector charging and EVs, allowing SmartThings Energy to display information relating to users’ energy production, storage and usage.

Additionally, consumers will be able to better prepare for power disruptions and outages through SmartThings Energy’s ability to sync with the Tesla app’s Powerwall “Storm Watch” function. This means that in the case of extreme weather events such as typhoons or heavy snowfall, users can be alerted through SmartThings on their connected compatible Samsung TVs and mobiles in addition to the Tesla app. What’s more, they can activate AI Energy Mode before and during power outages to extend the remaining backup energy stored in Tesla Powerwall.

Simulated Image (for demonstration purpose only) of SmartThings App Alerting Tesla Powerwall Status and AI Energy Mode Activation with Photo of Tesla Products that are available to connect to Samsung SmartThings Energy

Samsung’s utilisation of the Tesla API is part of its continual drive toward making substantial progress on the Net Zero Home project and enhancing the multi-device experience of SmartThings users.

“At Tesla we are excited to add capability to our products to interact with other intelligent devices and software in customers’ homes. We recently published FleetAPI, allowing developers to interact with Powerwall, Solar, and Wall Connector in addition to our vehicles. We are pleased that Samsung has chosen to be an early developer, given their leading position in consumer smart home technology. Customers will be able to view the status of their grid connectivity across multiple devices and intelligently control home loads to extend their Powerwall energy when off grid.” said Drew Baglino, Tesla.

SmartThings Energy connected to Tesla Powerwall will be first shown at the Samsung booth at CES® 2024. The actual service is currently in development and is targeted to launch in the second quarter of 2024.[3] Please note that the features described above are subject to change.

[2] An application programming interface (API) is a software intermediary that enables two different applications to integrate with each other.

[3] Service limited to countries where Tesla Powerwall is sold and SmartThings Energy is available. Availability in Australia is yet to be confirmed.

“The technologies we’re unveiling at CES 2023 place sustainability at the core of the user experience,” said Moohyung Lee, EVP and Head of the R&D Team of the Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our ambition is to become the most energy-efficient appliance brand globally, and our latest products and partnerships will help make sustainable living a reality for more people and more communities.”

SmartThings Maximises Energy Savings

With more than 80 million connected devices across the globe^[2], the SmartThings platform continues to expand while helping to unlock more ways for users to reduce their carbon footprint at home.

Now, SmartThings Energy’s AI Energy Mode^[3] is more powerful than ever, offering support for more devices and regions and even more significant energy savings. Testing on overseas Samsung products suggests that these energy savings include up to 15% more savings for compatible refrigerators^[4], up to 20% for compatible air conditioners^[5], and up to 35% for compatible washers^[6] on select cycles^[7]. These energy saving figures may vary locally.

Industry’s First Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS) Certification

Samsung’s efforts to enrich and expand SmartThings Energy have led the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to award Samsung the industry’s first mass-market Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS) certification. The certification recognises smart home appliances and services that manage and automate connected devices to help consumers gain insights into their energy use, which is designed to inspire energy-saving behaviour, helping customers to reduce costs and facilitate demand response measures that minimise stress on the grid.

The USEPA has also awarded base model Samsung home appliances in the US 260 ENERGY STAR® certifications, including 43 “Most Efficient” recognitions^[8]. Samsung is one of the long-standing leaders with more than a decade of ENERGY STAR award leadership, and a rare recipient of the prestigious ENERGY STAR Corporate Commitment Award.

Helping Make Net Zero Homes a Reality – Offering Households the Ultimate in Energy Efficiency

To empower more people to enjoy energy independence at home, Samsung has unveiled the next phase of its net zero home initiative: the Smart City Project. Working with Sterling Ranch and its long-time technology partner Siemens, the Smart City Project will help establish Sterling Ranch as a master-planned sustainable housing community designed to house 30,000 residents in Littleton, Colorado.

SmartThings Energy will serve as the residents’ primary interactive app to monitor data, with Samsung appliances offering residents real-time insights on their energy, water and natural gas use. Throughout the community, solar panels and household batteries will produce and store energy, while energy-efficient appliances will help minimise power usage and monitor water use to help save resources. Together with smart infrastructure solutions from Siemens paired with smart home and energy optimisation solution from Resideo Technologies, Samsung technologies will make it easy for the residents of Sterling Ranch to enjoy a net-zero lifestyle.

Samsung’s collaboration with Resideo, extends beyond the Smart City Project. Samsung and Resideo are exploring an opportunity to integrate Samsung’s appliances with Resideo’s smart grid solutions to connect customers with energy management programs in California and Texas. In the future, this work could help make more communities smart-grid ready by expanding Resideo’s best-in-class demand response offering and optimising SmartThings Energy’s savings.

Tackling Microplastics Head-on With ‘Less Microfibre’ Technology

While reducing the impact of devices and homes is vital to creating a sustainable future, other clear and present risks to the environment demand our attention. For over a year, Samsung and Patagonia have been working together to address the challenge of microplastics shedding during the laundry process and polluting oceans and other bodies of water.

Samsung’s new Less Microfibre Cycle^[9] and Less Microfibre Filter^[10] are products of that collaboration. A breakthrough in the fight against microplastics, the Less Microfibre Cycle (currently available on overseas models only) can cut microplastic emissions by up to 54%^[11]. Now available in Europe, the cycle will roll out to compatible washers in Korea from February this year and in the US soon ^[12].

Tests carried out on overseas models such as the model featured above have found the Less Microfibre Cycle may reduce microplastic emissions by up to 54%^[11]. The availability of this product in Australia is yet to be confirmed.

Like the Less Microfibre Cycle (the availability of which is yet to be confirmed in Australia), Samsung and Patagonia’s newly developed washing machine filter has the potential to have an impact on the health of aquatic ecosystems. The Less Microfibre Filter helps to minimise microplastic emissions by preventing them from escaping into the ocean at the end of wash cycles. It will be available in select Samsung washing machines in Australia and Europe beginning in the second half of 2023.

BESPOKE refrigerators also feature customisable door panels that support long use by allowing users to easily update their existing appliance’s design instead of replacing it with a new one.

Through close collaboration, technological breakthroughs, and a commitment to becoming the world’s most energy-efficient appliance brand, Samsung aims to lead the way to a more sustainable future. Visit Samsung.com/au to learn more about the eco-conscious innovations Samsung is showcasing at CES 2023.

[1] The new wash cycle called the Less Microfibre Cycle, is already available for select Samsung washers in Europe and will be expanded to Korea early this year and the U.S. by the end of 2023. The availability of the Less Microfibre Cycle is yet to be confirmed in Australia. The Less Microfibre Filter will be available in Australia from Q2 2023.

[2] As of December 2022.

[3] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account are required.

[4] Available on specific models from May 2023 through a Wi-Fi update. Test results based on a comparison of U.S. models’ factory setting temperatures with and without AI Energy Mode. Results may vary depending on usage conditions and patterns.

[5] Based on internal testing of U.S. models. Results may vary depending on the user’s actual environment and usage patterns.

[6] Based on internal testing on the WF8900B model with an 8lb IEC except for Small Load cycle (4lb IEC). Results may vary depending on actual usage conditions.

[7] Can be applied to Heavy Duty, Small Load, Towels, and Power Rinse courses only when the selected washing temperature is ‘hot’.

[8] As of November 2022. Certifications awarded to US models only.

[9] The availability of the Less Microfibre Cycle is yet to be confirmed in Australia.

[10] The Less Microfibre Filter will be available in Australia from Q2 2023.

[11] Tested with 2kg load of 100% polyester hoodies, comparing Synthetics cycle on Samsung Conventional model of European washer WW4000T and the Less Microfiber Cycle on WW7000B. The results may be different depending on the clothes and environment. Tested by the Ocean Wise Plastics Lab.

[12] The availability of the Less Microfibre Cycle is yet to be confirmed in Australia.

The new Samsung Infinite Refrigerator combines a premium aesthetic, convenient features, and flexible storage options to seamlessly sync with your lifestyle. Image simulated for illustrative purposes.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the global launch of the Samsung Infinite Refrigerator[1] in select markets around the world. Having originally launched in Europe[2], the Infinite Refrigerator will expand to Australia by Q2 2023, and additional countries including, Mexico and Thailand by the end of the year.

Samsung’s new premium built-in refrigerator is available with a choice of fridge, freezer, or wine cellar models, and features a timeless, modular design that seamlessly blends into any interior. With simple lines, high-quality natural materials, and features that maximise convenience and streamline food storage, the Infinite Refrigerator adds lasting value to consumers’ kitchens.

“Combining high-quality materials with modular designs, the Samsung Infinite Refrigerator reimagines bespoke customisation in a premium fridge, creating the ultimate blend of style and performance,” said Junhwa Lee, EVP and Head of the Customer Experience Team of the Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics.

A Timeless Design That Elevates Any Kitchen

With a timeless aesthetic that reflects the latest trends, Infinite Refrigerator is built to last. Known as Infinite Design, the new aesthetic is distinguished by its seamless look, durable materials, premium finishing, and elegant design cues.

As a premium bespoke refrigerator, Infinite Refrigerator naturally features a modular design made from high-quality materials that can be customised and combined to suit consumers’ changing needs. Infinite Design enhances that versatility by ensuring that the refrigerator will remain stylish no matter how consumers’ lifestyles change. With its simple lines, smooth surface, Timeless Greige finish and elegant gold copper edge frame, the Infinite Refrigerator looks outstanding in any interior.

The refrigerator’s exterior is made from premium aluminum which provides a level of dent- and scratch-resistance and allows marks and stains to be removed[3]. The interior is bright and refined with its Black Metal Cooling and Tunnel Lighting – two features that epitomise the refrigerator’s elegant balance of form and function.

Applied to the duct and door, Black Metal Cooling not only creates a sense of depth for a distinctly premium look, but it also helps keep food fresher for longer by quickly compensating for heat loss. The Tunnel Lighting on the frame and shelves enhances the aesthetic while giving users clear views of every corner of their fridge. Not only is the interior striking, but it is also spacious. The fridge and freezer feature a combined capacity of 805 litres[4], while the wine cellar offers room to store up to 101 bottles.

Raising the Bar for Kitchen Convenience

To offer users an experience that is more in tune with how they use their fridge today, the Infinite Refrigerator comes packed with features that maximise convenience. Together, these technologies provide instant access to food and refreshments for a truly outstanding user experience.

The new Auto Open Door features a sensor on its side[5] that instantly opens the door with a simple touch[6]. This makes it easy for users to access their fridge even when their hands are full of groceries or messy from food prep. The door’s built-in sensor means there is no handle to get in the way, while its stylishly simple look reflects modern consumers’ demand for clutter-free designs.

The dishwasher-safe[7], BPA-free[8] AutoFill Jug[9] provides easy access to refreshingly cold filtered water, anytime. It also features a built-in infuser[10] that allows users to create deliciously flavoured beverages by adding any fruits and herbs they like. The Dual Auto Ice Maker[11], meanwhile, ensures that users have plenty of ice, offering a choice of either whiskey ball ice or cubed ice.

Flexible Cooling for Optimal Freshness

The Infinite Refrigerator’s flexible storage options allow users to simultaneously store different foods under optimal conditions, keeping everything inside deliciously fresh.

The Flex Pantry[12] is an independently controlled drawer that can be quickly converted to different preset temperatures to suit users’ daily needs. The two built-in temperature modes are ideal for storing a wide range of high-quality ingredients, from meat and fish to fruits and vegetables, preserving their natural flavours and textures.

The wine cellar’s Triple Temperature Zone brings a similar level of optimised freshness to wine storage. With three separate climate zones and precise temperature controls, it allows users to simultaneously store different bottles of wine under optimal conditions, delivering the ultimate in wine preservation. The UV Protect Glass Door has triple-glazed glass with UV ray protection. It safeguards it from changes in the outside temperature, so the internal temperature remains stable, and shields it from harmful UV rays[13].

Seamless SmartThings Integration

The refrigerator’s seamless connectivity makes using it a breeze by simplifying everything from wine storage to managing energy use.

Part of the SmartThings app[14], the new SmartThings Smart Wine Storage wine management feature takes the guesswork out of storing wine by analysing wine labels and offering details on optimal storage conditions. When combined with SmartThings Cooking, the service helps recommend the perfect food to pair with wine[15].

SmartThings Energy[16] support allows users to easily monitor and manage their refrigerator’s electricity use and offers tips to help reduce their carbon footprint and save money. AI Energy Mode takes that efficiency to the next level by analysing usage patterns and other factors and optimising settings to help save energy.

For more information about the Infinite Refrigerator, please visit Samsung.com/au/.

[1] Product name may vary across regions to Bespoke Infinite Line Refrigerator.

[2] Launch markets include the UK, Germany, Italy, France, and Benelux.

[3] Based on internal tests.

[4] Fridge capacity: 393L; freezer capacity: 412L. Actual capacity may vary.

[5] Auto Open Door’s hinge is placed on the right side of the fridge and wine models and on the left side of the freezer.

[6] Door automatically opens to about 25 mm. If you do not open the door further, it will close automatically after 2 seconds (automatic closing may not be possible in certain environments).

[7] Tested for 125 cycles in accordance with the “Mechanical dishwashing resistance of utensils” test method (BS EN 12875-1:2005) and certified as dishwasher safe by SGS.

[8] Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which are often used in food and beverage containers, and has been linked with possible adverse health effects.

[9] Exclusive to refrigerator model.

[10] To produce flavoured water the Infuser should be filled with your preferred fruits or herbs before use.

[11] Exclusive to freezer model.

[12] Exclusive to the refrigerator model.

[13] Based on internal tests.

[14] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account are required.

[15] Food pairing service is available in certain countries

[16] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.