The Galaxy Z series has set the standard for foldable phones from its very first launch, with a new release every year. Now in its seventh chapter, the latest design revisits where it all started. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are the result of refinements made over each year of innovation. Samsung Newsroom spoke with Hubert Lee, Head of the Design Team and Huichul Yang, Head of the UX (User eXperience) Team, both part of the Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, to discover the story behind the products and the designers’ persistent pursuit of incredible design.

* Content images simulated for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. Product specifications may vary by country, region, model and carrier.

Hubert Lee

Executive Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics

Since joining as Head of the MX Design Team in late 2022, Lee has overseen the design direction for all MX product launches. With the launch of the new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, Lee showcases Galaxy’s ultimate pursuit of ultra-sleek and modern design.

Huichul Yang

Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics

Since joining Samsung in 2005, Yang has played a pivotal role in advancing mobile UX innovation as an HCI (Human Computer Interaction) expert. Since late 2023, Yang has led the UX Team in the MX Business, crafting the mobile experiences powered by Galaxy AI.

The Essence of Foldable Design

Q. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 have finally been unveiled. As the heads of the Design and UX teams, it must mean a lot to both of you.

Lee: Among the products I’ve designed at Samsung, the Galaxy Z Fold7 stands out as the one I am most proud of. Most people said, “Wow!” as soon as they saw it. It’s the thinnest, lightest Galaxy Z Fold series model yet. I believe it captures the essence of what a foldable phone can be. It’s only just been unveiled at Galaxy Unpacked 2025 in New York, but I’m confident that customers will understand its true value as they see it up close and get a feel for it in their hands.

Yang: Alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, we also introduced One UI 8, an interface optimized for the AI experience. I believe that a sleek, modern design — paired with an intuitive interface — can really resonate with users seeking a more elevated mobile experience in this age of AI.

“The Galaxy Z series isn’t just well-made — it reaffirms our position as a pioneer and benchmark in the foldable phone market.”

— Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics

Q. It’s clear you’re both really proud of the products. It must have taken a lot of work to get it out into the world.

Lee: The Galaxy Z series marked the very beginning of foldable phones. To solidify that symbolism, we knew we had to create a product that felt truly impressive to anyone who saw it. There was a shared understanding within the team that simply repeating what we had done in the past wouldn’t be enough to meet customer expectations. Change wasn’t a choice; it was a must. That’s why with the seventh models of the Galaxy Z series, we didn’t approach it as a refinement — we approached it as a redesign from the ground up. We approached it as if we were starting completely from scratch.

We design lifestyle products. To be part of people’s daily lives, portability is essential and reducing weight was key to achieving that. Our mobile R&D office put in a huge amount of effort in that respect. The nature of the hardware meant there was a certain weight we had to carry, but we kept wondering if we could make it just a little bit lighter. That led to a lot of research and testing. As it became lighter, it became thinner and the display larger, until we arrived at the sleek, modern form we had envisioned. The product you see is the result of countless hours of deliberation, passion and engineering.

Q. How did changes to the design of products affect the user interface?

Yang: Since One UI 6, we’ve been introducing a range of AI features as an AI companion. With One UI 8, we focused on meaningful productivity. We took advantage of the Galaxy Z Fold7’s large-screen form factor to enable users to easily compare original and AI-generated content side by side and move it seamlessly between apps.

Q. What are the changes to the Galaxy Z Flip7 UX?

Yang: One of the standout features of the Z Flip7 is its full-front FlexWindow. Gemini is now optimized for the FlexWindow, enabling quick and seamless interaction with AI — anytime you need it. It’s our new take on an AI companion — one that unfolds right in the palm of your hand. Notably, the form factor is such that the main camera faces you when folded, so now you can launch Gemini Live from the FlexWindow and ask about everyday things, like if your outfit is appropriate for the weather or your schedule for the day.

“We envisioned a new future with One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Flip7 as an AI companion in your hand.”

 — Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics

* This background image has been created by generative AI (Macnific AI, Midjourney).

Q. The products come in a range of colors. Which one is your favorite?

Lee: I love them all but if I had to choose one, it would have to be Silver Shadow. It’s the most straightforward and simple one, but I think it represents Galaxy’s “Ultra Sleek, Ultra Modern” concept really well.

When customers buy premium products like the Galaxy Z Fold7, they tend to prefer values that feel timeless, so we really took that into consideration when choosing the colors for this series. We leveraged the metallic material to bring the colors to life in a way that expresses our design intent and complements the foldable form factor. One of the standout colors of this series is Blue Shadow. As you move the product around, the shine and sophistication are noticeable from all angles.

▲ (From left) Hubert Lee and Huichul Yang

Let’s Design Together!

Q. Even though you’re on different teams, you’ve been working on the same product. How did the Design and UX teams get connected?

Yang: Wallpaper design is where we really tend to collaborate closely. We work together to make sure the message the Design team wants to convey is properly communicated through the wallpaper, the face of the product. For One UI 7, we aligned the product’s corner radius with the One UI icon geometry. We’ll continue to align the GUI (Graphic user interface) with the underlying style of the product for future releases, too.

“Designing with the authentic mindset that we are all one team — this, I believe, is the most important attitude we need to break silos and grow together.”

 — Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics

Q. How do the team members collaborate?

Lee: The Design team holds a session called Design Clinic. Group leaders and managers come together to share ongoing projects and insights. It’s not a formal meeting, but rather a relaxed gathering to share ideas over coffee and dessert. It’s an open discussion where even criticism is seen as a way to make our products better and support each other. In the MX Business’s Design team, we cover everything from smartphones and wearables to PCs, tablets, CMF (Color, material and finish) and packaging, each item with its own functions. The Design Clinic helps us gain insights from other fields or discover early-stage ideas.

Q. How do you encourage synergy between designers on the team?

Lee: I often emphasize the phrase, “Let’s Design Together.” Rather than just holding onto what they’ve been assigned, I encourage the team to think collectively about what we’re making and how we can improve it. If feedback or advice isn’t sincere, it just leads to silos between teams. Designing together as one team with an authentic, shared mindset is what I emphasize most within the organization.

Reframing the Future

Q. Aside from designers’ intuition, sensibilities and qualitative insights, do you also incorporate user testing or quantitative validation during the design planning phase?

Lee: The Design team has established a Galaxy Design principle called “Essential Design,” aimed at focusing on core value and removing unnecessary elements. It’s based on three key elements: Simple, Impactful and Emotive. We believe that when these three elements come together in harmony, they create a truly aspirational product. We use the principle and its key elements as evaluation tools during the design planning stage; through a process we call Design Analytics. We conduct evaluations with internal employees to make sure our design intent is being communicated to users effectively. We use the data and insights from this to refine current designs and even identify future products. It’s how we strengthen our design identity, and it’s an integral part of the Galaxy design process.

Q. Do you use AI in your work?

Yang: We refer to AI tools during the testing process. We’ve observed that results from AI-based virtual user testing are fairly close to tests done by recruiting actual users. This leads us to expect that AI can play a significant role in UX evaluation going forward. We’re also experimenting with AI in other ways, like testing multiple versions of motion or animation effects, or turning 2D assets into 3D or animated formats. In this way, we’re continuously learning more about how to enhance our designs with AI.

“Amid the momentum of AI, the ability to direct design will become one of the most valuable assets in making your work truly meaningful.”

 — Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics

▲ (From left) Huichul Yang and Hubert Lee

Q. The age we live in is constantly changing. What kind of mindset and vision should guide designers today?

Yang: AI is a new momentum for designers. There are more and more of us thinking about how to use AI to make our work more meaningful. I believe those who show interest in how the world is changing and make new tools their own will be the ones leading in the age of AI. Some say designers will fade away as AI advances, but I see it differently. Design direction, the ability to guide AI creations and enrich them, is bound to become even more essential.

Lee: When it comes to new devices like foldable products, we’re not designing features. We’re designing the entire experience. I believe it’s our role as designers to deeply consider why a device folds, why it unfolds and what kind of value and convenience those actions should provide. That’s because we’re not just product designers, we’re lifestyle designers, and in the end, the user is the most important part of all. We have to read the trends constantly and keep asking ourselves what users truly need. To me, design that makes their lives better is design that’s truly meaningful.

For more information about Samsung Electronics’ design, please visit the Samsung Design website.

We are living through a defining moment in history. Technology has become a central force in our daily lives like never before, and the pace of innovation and change is truly extraordinary. In this rapidly evolving world, the human element — our thoughts, emotions, aspirations and needs — matters more than ever. Even as technology takes the lead, we believe our greatest strength lies in empathy and care.

As designers, our mission goes beyond creating innovative products. We aim to elevate people’s lives — to design tools and experiences that help them live better, longer and more meaningfully, by taming technology in service of humanity.

Samsung Electronics is a worldwide leader in tech and already plays an essential role in the lives of billions around the globe. Through our products, we help you clean your home, wash your clothes and dishes, preserve your food, store your memories, stay entertained, stay connected and express yourself — whether at home, on the move or in public spaces. This reach is both a tremendous privilege and, in the age of AI and accelerated technological change, an incredible opportunity and an immense responsibility.

That sense of purpose is what inspired me to join Samsung this year, after more than two decades as a designer and business leader across industries and cultures. I was drawn by the possibility to help reimagine the relationship between people and technology — putting humans at the heart of our product universe, to create a world where innovation truly supports and enhances our lives, unlocking, amplifying and elevating the human side of technology.

Rewriting the Code of a Design-Driven Company

To me, design is far more than a product or a user interface. It’s more than the interplay of form and function. I like to define design as the art of dreaming, crafting and taking to life distinctive solutions, meaningful experiences and authentic stories that deeply resonate with people’s needs and aspirations. In this sense, form and function follow meaning. Design becomes a force for purposeful innovation — one that begins and ends with people.

Across Samsung’s product portfolio, design serves as a language — one that understands people and interprets the complexity of the world around us. It has the power to humanize technology, transforming algorithms into emotion, features into feelings. In a time of accelerating complexity, design is how we restore clarity and foster deeper connections — with ourselves, our cultures and our lives.

Samsung’s commitment to design thinking dates back to 1996, when it declared the “Year of Design Revolution.” That year marked a turning point, with design officially recognized as a core strategic asset. With a “human-centered design philosophy” at its heart, Samsung laid the foundation for a design ethos that continues to evolve and grow.

Now, in the era of AI, our challenge is to build upon that legacy — to amplify its intent, refine its spirit and redefine what design means in a new cultural and technological landscape. Products can be copied, but a design philosophy — its purpose and point of view — cannot be replicated. This is why culture matters. For individuals and for organizations alike, consistency, authentic creativity and genuine care at every touchpoint are what set great companies apart.

A New Challenge to Everyday Innovation

Today, Samsung innovations are already transforming everyday life. Robot vacuum cleaners quietly maintain our homes. Smartwatches provide real-time insights into our health. Intelligent appliances, from washing machines to dishwashers, offer greater efficiency, performance and ease of use. Smart refrigerators adapt to our habits to keep food fresher for longer. Our screens deliver breathtaking visuals, our audio systems fill rooms with immersive soundscapes, and our smartphones, tablets and wearables keep us connected through intuitive design and purposeful features.

All of this is remarkable. Yet, the real frontier lies in something greater: the seamless integration of all these devices into a coherent, human-centered journey. We’re not just designing individual products — we’re designing an ecosystem of experiences. We’re redefining what “smart” really means by infusing technology with empathy, meaning and emotional resonance.

Samsung’s design now goes beyond the object. It places thoughtful connections, insightful information, and intentional emotions at the center. Through a cohesive design experience across our entire ecosystem — from mobile to TV to home appliances — we’re committed to enriching every interaction.

Our vision is a future where design brings warmth to innovation, and where technology helps us not only do more — but live longer, live better, and live more connected, and more meaningfully, creating an empathetic layer between people and their environments. This personal field of emotionally attuned, physiologically aware, and ethically governed technologies interconnects to form constellations of care — enabling shared rhythms and deeper connection across the home, family and community.

The Future Is Emotional, Meaningful, Connected Intelligence

The next frontier of smart technology must offer more than just functionality. With Samsung’s advancements in AI, empowered by hardware and software, we are unlocking a new dimension of emotional intelligence — where technology doesn’t just work for us, but resonates with us.

What excites me most about AI in product design is how it enables us to listen, learn and craft experiences that feel deeply personal. As intelligence becomes ambient — woven seamlessly into our everyday devices — design takes on a greater responsibility: to ensure that intelligence feels warm, human and caring. We’re shifting from devices that demand our attention to those that pay attention, anticipating needs, adapting preferences and forming meaningful relationships with users.

We’re envisioning an ecosystem where intelligence isn’t confined to one device, but exists around you — quiet, empathetic, always present when needed, and gracefully invisible when not. Samsung’s holistic approach to AI spans across the entire ecosystem — from smartphones to TVs, wearables to home appliances — transforming each product into a thoughtful companion in your daily life.

Imagine a TV that mirrors your mood. A refrigerator that understands your dietary goals. A watch or ring that knows when you need rest, and gently guides you toward better mental and physical wellbeing. This is not just innovation — it’s a design philosophy where intelligence surrounds you, senses you, learns from you and ultimately adapts to serve you better. Each product becomes part of a larger, unified story, grounded in empathy, awareness and care.

Design as a Force for Meaning — And for a Better Tomorrow

Technology will always continue to evolve. But what truly matters is the meaning it brings — to individuals and to society. At Samsung, we innovate not just because we can, but because we care. It starts with a sincere commitment to people and a deep sense of responsibility for the impact we create.

What has always inspired me about Samsung is its belief in openness — not just as a platform strategy, but as a cultural principle. Openness to collaboration. Openness to bold, unconventional ideas. Openness to meeting people where they are. This spirit of openness removes barriers, fuels connection and sets the stage for truly meaningful innovation.

These are the values that have shaped my career and the principles I believe will drive our industry forward. They reflect a shared mission: to build technology that enriches human life, with empathy at its core.

Through our love for humanity and our clear vision for the future, we invite you to join us on this journey — one shaped by Samsung Design, and guided by purpose, care and imagination.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 embody modern, sleek design. Through their simple, solid exterior and linear form, these devices express what Galaxy’s design identity is all about. Explore the design story behind the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, where modernity and simplicity converge.

* The images featured in this article are for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. Product specifications may vary by country, region, model and carrier.

Iconic and Unique

Floating Design, a distinctive and impactful design element newly incorporated into the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, makes it seem like the foldables’ screens float above their bodies when viewed from the side. When folded, the bold line along the side of the devices not only accentuates their sleek, linear form, but also facilitates easier opening, enhancing overall usability.

Linear form is a core aspect of the Galaxy Z Fold6 design, maximized by its effortlessly sleek and streamlined, yet balanced shape. By reducing the length and increasing the width of the cover screen, the Galaxy Z Fold6 is more user-friendly than ever before with a refreshing new look. The corners on the right-hand side of the device now mirror the shape of those on the left, resulting in an almost symmetrical silhouette when folded.

Through six generations of technological advancements and design expertise, the Galaxy Z Fold6 stands out as the slimmest and lightest among all Galaxy Z Fold models to date. Its balanced design and thin form ensure maximum comfort, adding to the desirability of this premium foldable phone.

One of the Galaxy series’ most defining features is its signature linear camera layout and this design motif takes center stage on both the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. The Galaxy Z Fold6 sports a bold camera decoration that further highlights the row of three circles descending vertically from the back top left corner of the device.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip6’s camera design exudes the vibrant, bubbly spirit of the Galaxy Z Flip series with a new camera decoration designed to match the diverse range of available body colors. The linear camera arrangements are even more prominent than in previous models, making the new Galaxy smartphones instantly recognizable.

Vibrant and Multicolored

* The Navy, Blue, Mint and Yellow images were created by generative AI (Navy, Blue, Yellow: Photoshop AI / Mint: Midjourney)

The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 bring a lively mood with both vivid and subtle colors. Each hue in this series evokes joyful moments connecting with nature. The Galaxy Z Fold6 is available in Silver Shadow, Pink and Navy, reflecting the confidence and sophistication of premium foldable phones. The Galaxy Z Flip6 is also available in the same Silver Shadow as the Galaxy Z Fold6, plus Blue, Mint and Yellow.

Featuring geometric shapes, the wallpapers of the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 seamlessly blend into the devices’ exterior aesthetics. They illustrate a graceful motion of light and shadow that mirrors the light reflecting off the haze glass on the back of the products.

The palette of the wallpaper dynamically adapts to the visual cues conveyed by each device’s color, bringing it to life. To balance aesthetics and usability, brightness and contrast adjustments optimize the display’s energy consumption. Elegant animations amplify the sense of space created by the arrangement of outwardly extending circles and lines. Additionally, the wallpaper responds interactively depending on the angle of the display, turning the simple act of folding and unfolding into moments of joy.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 herald a new beginning for the Galaxy Z series with designs that focus on the essence of what they are. Encapsulating the very nature of what Galaxy seeks to be with even greater boldness and style, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 are poised to shape the future of foldables.

For more information about Samsung Electronics’ design, please visit the Samsung Design website.

“Bringing innovative design projects to mass production is a multi-step process that involves iterative exploration and trial and error. The Music Frame project is the culmination of positive energy and passionate collaboration across our design, development and CX teams since the summer of 2021.”

— Chulyong Cho, Head of Design Team, Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics

Designing the Experiences of Tomorrow

Samsung Electronics is home to forward-looking departments seeking untapped opportunities. True to its name, the Visual Display Business’ Future Experience Design group actively develops concepts for user experiences that are missing in the market before turning those ideas into innovative products.

Launching a new product is no easy feat, however. There is a long journey ahead after proposing an initial concept — from designing for mass production and collaborating with other departments to enhancing marketability and perfecting the product’s technical aspects. Brought to fruition through unceasing passion and innovation, this is Music Frame and its design story.

* Content images have been simulated for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. Product specifications may vary by country, region and model.

Bringing Style to Spaces

Inspired by Your Lifestyle

Consumers are now opting to purchase products that seamlessly blend into their living spaces instead of ones that only offer functionality. To that end, Samsung has introduced a series of lifestyle TVs including The Serif, The Frame and The Sero. Since TVs are not in use most of the time, these products transition to Ambient or Art Mode to offer a tasteful design experience — rather than displaying a black screen.

Delivering audio in the form of a picture frame, Music Frame is an extension of this approach. Setting itself apart from conventional speakers designed mainly to amplify sound, Music Frame and its concept of lifestyle audio prioritize the user’s lifestyle and living space. Picture frames are a familiar furnishing that can be placed anywhere, reflecting each individual’s taste and personality based on the kind of art being displayed. Music Frame draws inspiration from ordinary picture frames, allowing users to listen to music as they appreciate their favorite pictures.

Breathing Life Into an Innovation

In collaboration with the development and CX teams, Samsung designers built and tested a working prototype that demonstrated high-quality sound. They received positive responses from users after extensive testing, which solidified their confidence in the product’s acoustic performance and overall concept. As a result, the initial design remained intact and went into mass production.

Bridging the Gap Between Decor and Audio

Sculpting Unseen Sound

Music Frame embodies audio, so Samsung couldn’t lose sight of how people enjoy listening to high-quality music. Given the product’s unique form factor compared to traditional, elongated soundbars, the designers worked closely with the sound development team to perfect acoustics from the get-go. Speakers commonly have fabric, grilles or other materials on the front to easily emit sound. Together with the sound development team, the designers found a way for Music Frame to amplify sound through a gap between the frame and panel — creating a design rarely seen in audio products. The result? A frame-shaped speaker that is not restricted by the material that covers the front side.

Due to the frame’s shape, the gap between the bezel and the panel was important since this portion produces high- and medium-pitched sounds. After countless tests to find the optimal sized gap, both in terms of design and sound quality, the team settled on a width of 9mm. The designers worked with developers to make sure the vibrations from the rear woofer speaker — responsible for the bass — would not create noise when the product is hung on a wall like a picture frame.

A Piece To Personalize Your Space

Just like a real frame, Music Frame allows users to swap the images inside for personal photos or works of art. Listening to music while looking at a framed photo of a precious memory or a piece of art adds new levels of depth to users’ experiences.

Samsung designers also considered users who might place the Music Frame on a table instead of hanging it on a wall. Meticulous refinements were made to the frame stand’s shape and angle to ensure it doesn’t look too prominent or cause reflections on the panel. Since the rear of the product is visible if placed on a table, the back was designed in a neat and minimal fashion.

Music Frame in Your Everyday

Your Life, in the Frame

If there’s a particular image users want to cherish, they can create their own art panel by uploading an image to a third-party website and placing an order.

Music Frame comes in a default black bezel, but users can purchase an additional white bezel to match their decor. They can fill their frames with stunning images to create a stylish space that is perfect for listening to music.

* Art panels are sold separately and customization availability may vary by region. White bezels are sold separately and will become available starting in the summer of 2024.

Fill Your Room With Rhythm

For more captivating TV viewing, users can utilize Q-Symphony for richer stereo sound by placing two Music Frames on either side of their TVs. For surround sound, users can place a soundbar in front of their TV and a Music Frame on the opposite wall to act as a rear speaker. With the SmartThings app, users can set the equalizer settings to their preferences. By fine-tuning the audio, users can enjoy more vibrant sound and immersive content.

* Q-Symphony using Music Frame is available only when connected to a 2024 Samsung TV (DU7000↑ & LS03D) or 2024 Samsung TV and 2024 Samsung Soundbar (Q700D↑, Ultra Slim, S-Series).

Looking forward to a future of new possibilities, Samsung designers will continue to develop products and designs that naturally blend into users’ lifestyles and living spaces.

For more information about Samsung Electronics’ design, please visit the Samsung Design website.

Versatile, compact and stylish, the Galaxy Z Flip is made for fast-paced, modern lifestyles and for those who aren’t afraid to make a statement. Built to inspire creativity, the device packs everything you need for content creation and sharing into a form factor that fits in the palm of your hand.

Flex Your Creativity

The Galaxy Z Flip’s unique form factor is designed to provide hands-free experiences, making it easy for you to create content no matter where you are.

Thanks to its Hideaway Hinge, the device can stand on its own at various angles. Simply pop open the device, place it on a desk or on the floor, and you can start filming your latest dance challenge video without extra accessories or stands.

With Flex mode, you can easily snap hands-free selfies for your social media feeds or capture steady, stunning Night Hyperlapse videos with just the Galaxy Z Flip. The feature also lets you easily set up live streams to connect with your followers or instantly collaborate with other creators via video call.

Capture the World Differently

From spontaneous selfies to hilarious GIFs of funny moments, the Galaxy Z Flip gives you new ways to capture your experiences.

The Quick selfie feature uses the device’s powerful rear cameras to create high-quality self-portraits. Double click the power button when the phone is folded and the cover display will transform into a selfie viewfinder. You can then click the volume button to capture a shot. If you are taking a groupie with your friends, you can tap on the cover display to switch to the Ultra Wide lens.

With so many ways to create photos and videos, it can sometimes be difficult to decide which one to go for in the moment.

Single Take on the Galaxy Z Flip is a dream tool for digital creators. The feature is especially useful for shooting action-packed scenes.

Just hold down the shutter button and the camera will capture the moment in a wide range of formats. What’s more, the feature even recommends the best shots, which means you don’t need to scroll through your gallery to find the perfect post.

Elevate Your Content

Ask any digital creator and they will tell you that taking photos and videos is just the start of the creative process. From image editing to caption writing, there are many steps when it comes to producing engaging content.

Equipped with quick and easy image editing tools, the Galaxy Z Flip is a mobile creative powerhouse. As soon as you take a shot, you can start polishing your image, try out different filters, and put your next post together on the device. The Multi-Active Window feature also allows you to run two apps simultaneously on the main display. With the ability to edit photos on the top half of the display while writing captions or responding to comments on the bottom half, you can multitask and manage your platform on the go with ease.

Fashion Meets Technology

Featuring a bold and playful design, the Galaxy Z Flip is perfect for those who see technology as a way to express themselves. Available in various luxurious color options, including Mirror Purple, Mirror Black, and Mirror Gold for the Galaxy Z Flip, and Mystic Gray and Mystic Bronze for the Galaxy Z Flip 5G, the device will turn heads and bring individuality to your outfit.¹

¹ Color availability may vary depending on country or carrier.

Our homes are the spaces that best represent our personal preferences, needs and tastes, much of which presents itself in the way in which we arrange the objects in our living spaces. Understanding that such organization techniques and choices are crucial to users when looking for pieces to add to their homes, the designers at Samsung Electronics have been pursuing a design direction that prioritizes how an object will blend into customer’s homes as well as their everyday lives.

Samsung’s The Serif, released in 2016, was the beginning of the solidification of this design direction as the company began to introduce lifestyle television products. Similarly, The Frame’s picture frame-like design allows the TV to serve as an artistic object when switched off, and The Serif blends in naturally to a space’s aesthetic due to its furniture-like design. Samsung’s latest product, lifestyle projector The Premiere, follows this design trajectory, too.

When designing The Premiere, Samsung’s designers deliberated constantly over not just the purpose of the product, but also the user experience it could offer. Accordingly, The Premiere was designed in consideration of the entirety of a user’s daily life as opposed to just those moments of downtime enjoying content, resulting in a design that truly gives back to the space it is placed in.

A Seamless Match With Any Environment

“The Premiere can be used in living rooms or bedrooms just like a normal TV, following a change in usage habits that has become the focal point of all our latest designs,” noted Sungil Bang, designer at the Product Design Group of Samsung’s Visual Display Business. Rather than being a product that is used just occasionally, the designers of The Premiere visualized an ultra-short throw projector product that is used frequently while being stored in a way similar to how users position their television sets. The Premiere’s main purpose is to provide users with cinematic experiences at home, but the designers looked beyond this simple role to explore how the product’s design could complement the space in which it is placed.

“The Premiere is a premium home appliance equipped with advanced technology,” noted designer Jigwang Kim. “However, despite its special functional offering, a projector can become less appealing when its design ruins the aesthetic of a home. We worked to create a design mockup and then verified its appearance within a space in order to confirm our conviction that we were creating a product that can truly become one with its environment.” As a result of this process, The Premiere’s material, appearance, color and size were all designed with the user environment in mind.

A Projector With a Natural Touch

Rather than appearing as just another rigid electronic device, The Premiere is finished with fabric materials that help the product merge naturally into any space. Kvadrat textiles are known for the premium colors, textures and finishing they offer interior design products, and was therefore a natural choice to complement The Premiere’s design aesthetic. However, the process of including it in the product was not initially simple: due to the tight weave structure of Kvadrat fabrics, there were concerns the sound quality would be affected when the speakers were covered. Therefore, after much effort and trialing, a new fabric was developed with an increased aperture ratio built into its woven structure that would provide a high-quality aesthetic while also maintaining sound quality.

Refined Lines and Minimal Space

It takes a trained eye to achieve harmony within one’s home, given the range of objects and appliances each person has and the level of personalization they might wish to achieve. The Premiere features a smooth, refined design that is free of any superfluous accents and instead boasts a minimal and rounded shape with a slim silhouette. Its appearance allows it to harmonize well with any and every object, be it placed on a table or a book cabinet.

In order to achieve this appearance, the biggest hurdle faced by the designers was reducing the overall size of the product. The more advanced the technologies there are in a product, the bigger a product tends to become, but The Premiere’s designers were set on crafting a softly-shaped object as opposed to having a larger or rectangular-shaped design. It was by finely adjusting the position of the product’s circuit, lens, speaker and fan that this design was achieved, and not without constant correction of various curves and discussions with related teams. Furthermore, The Premiere’s softer color tone was chosen over more striking shades so that the projector gives a warm and elegant impression to users.

Designing a Product for Every Aspect of Daily Life

“We made sure that the natural aspects of the design complemented the actual user experience of The Premiere,” stressed designer Junpyo Kim. In order to match the exterior design with the simple, easy-to-use nature of the product, the designers considered the everyday use habits for a product like The Premiere, noting that, for the most ideal viewing experience possible, such tasks as closing the curtains, installing additional equipment or purchasing separate speakers should be made obsolete.

“We wanted to make sure the product could be used effortlessly by users, so our aim was to remove the need for them to adjust their environment according to the product,” highlighted designer Byungwook Kang. “This intent, which we included at every stage of the design process, accompanies the integration of new technologies in The Premiere that facilitate new viewing experiences and habits.” Such new technologies include The Premiere’s rich, three-dimensional sound that requires no extra speakers, clear image brightness and accurate, vivid image coloration, as well as the ultra-short throw technology that overcomes the limitations of where a projector needs to be placed to ameliorate the daily lives of users.

Keeping It Close and Easy

The position of a domestic product in the home will usually depend on its function. With a product like a lifestyle projector, this positioning can get quite complicated, as users have to consider installation requirements and habitual movement paths. The Premiere comes with none of these worries, as it can be placed freely wherever a user desires with no excessive installation required. The Premiere shoots its laser beams upwards rather than to the front thanks to its ultra-short throw technology, ensuring a large screen for viewers even when it is close to the wall and opening up the options for users to place and enjoy the lifestyle projector wherever they would like.

Vivid Color in Any Light

Clear picture quality is a necessity for the proper enjoyment of large screens (up to 130 inches), wherever a viewer may be sitting. Further to this, for maximum impact, the colors of content should be as vivid and as bright as a movie screen whatever the time of day the content is being enjoyed at. This is why The Premiere features a triple laser and HDR10+ technology for maximum color expression, and thanks to its contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1, every little detail is emphasized. Finally, its maximum brightness of 2,800 ANSI-Lumens means that external lighting is not a barrier for viewing enjoyment. If the value of The Premiere’s technologies is in how they enable users to enjoy crisp picture quality in any environment, the value of its design is in how it enables the product to provide this user enjoyment in any space.

Ample Sound, All by Itself

Sound is one of the elements that truly define a remarkable home cinema experience. Since the performance of speakers mounted on projectors is usually not enough to provide an immersive cinematic experience, users normally have to install extra speakers in order to achieve the desired quality of sound. However, The Premiere introduces a whole new world of on-device sound quality. The Premiere’s all-in-one speaker is equipped with a woofer and an acoustic beam with a powerful output that emits sound through 44 audio holes on both the left and right hand sides of the device to create a truly three-dimensional sound experience. The product’s acoustic beam technology is structured similarly to wind instruments, with holes punctured through long tubes to achieve an immersive sound quality. While these tubes require a certain amount of space within the product, the designers went to extra lengths to ensure this wouldn’t affect its overall size by creating precise internal designs that allowed for the surround sound technology within a small exterior form.

The Premiere was designed to be a product that complements its environment seamlessly as opposed to standing out. This aesthetic decision was one made unanimously by the Samsung team in order to craft a product that understood its users and could suit actual situations, preferences and environments. Thanks to this approach, The Premiere features a design that blends naturally into everyday life and can fit comfortably into any environment.

* The images featured are simulated and for illustration purpose only. The actual product may differ from the images shown below.

* This product does not require the installation of an additional screen and can project onto flat monotone surfaces that are in white or bright colors. For an optimal projection environment, users are recommended to use a customized screen made for an ultra-short throw projector.

Featuring a larger Cover Screen and an expansive Infinity-O Display for the Main Screen, the Galaxy Z Fold2 gives users more immersive viewing experience. Built with craftsmanship and premium materials, the device offers a luxurious experience which can be customized to match personal sense of taste.

Check out the video below to hear the story of Galaxy Z Fold2’s design.

*Subtitles are available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic and Korean

As a result, the latest addition to the Note family is not only easy to use, with its customizable, Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) connected S Pen, it’s also easy on the eyes, with a thoughtfully refined display and frame design. And with a total of four standout color options, which users are encouraged to mix and match with S Pens and accessories of various hues, the Galaxy Note9 offers users more ways to express their fashion and style.

Enhancing an Iconic Design

The Galaxy Note9 furthers the Note series’ stunning design heritage with a sleek and square form factor, as well as enhancements that enable users to multitask more efficiently and enjoy immersive multimedia experiences.

A cornerstone of Samsung’s design legacy, the Infinity Display is known for its seamless form and captivating visuals. Measuring 6.4 inches, the Galaxy Note9’s Quad HD+ Super AMOLED Infinity Display is the series’ largest yet, offering more room for work, play and everything in between. That means a bigger screen to immerse yourself in a favorite movie or game, and more space to write or create with the S Pen.

To amplify users’ immersion, Samsung rounded the corners of the display to a bare minimum, and refined the Galaxy Note9’s barely-there bezels to conceal its iris sensor. The screen itself is also a deeper black, which allows it to blend in with the bezels when the device is off and enhances the overall aesthetic. Other enhancements include the redesigned camera deco, which now matches the color of the device, and the repositioned fingerprint sensor, which is now found beneath the camera.

The smartphone’s design is rounded off with a choice of four expressive color options: Ocean Blue, Midnight Black, Metallic Copper and Lavender Purple.

A Standout S Pen

Each Note adds new capabilities to the smartphones’ signature feature: the S Pen. Over the years, these enhancements have unlocked innovative ways for users to manage their mobile lives more comfortably and freely. When designing the Galaxy Note9, Samsung’s team focused on enhancements that would take the S Pen’s ‘freeing’ aspects to the next level, transforming it into more than a tool, but rather a device in its own right, complete with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity and its own independent functions.

The S Pen’s individuality is also reflected in aesthetic elements of the Galaxy Note9’s design. For example, unlike the other colorways, which each feature an S Pen in a matching hue, the stylish Ocean Blue model comes with a vibrant Yellow S Pen that stands out from the rest. And because each model’s S Pen is compatible with any other Galaxy Note9, you can easily swap your S Pen for another if you feel like a different color would better suit your style*.

The S Pen’s significance to the line is also reflected in the new flagship’s packaging, which prominently displays an image of the S Pen in place of the devices’ traditional logo. This adjustment was made to honor the S Pen as the symbol of the Note series, and a key reason why the smartphones have garnered countless fans.

A Refined Frame

One of the first things you’ll notice when holding the Galaxy Note9 is just how nicely it sits in the hand. The smartphone’s comfortable contours are the result of a frame design that reflects thoughtful consideration for both usability and aesthetics.

The metal frame was forged using a cutting process known as Dia-cutting, which utilizes a fast-rotating artificial diamond tool to create smooth, glossy surfaces that accentuate design details. The process involved tapering the surfaces of the frame that blend into the device’s front and back, and carefully rounding the middle section, which comes into contact with your palm the most. The tapered parts of the frame feature a glossy finish, while the rounded middle section is matte.

The resulting frame is sleek and slim, and features an interplay of glossy and matte finishes that complements the Galaxy Note9’s premium design cues.

• The video above illustrates the dia-cutting process, followed by the coloring procedure of the Galaxy Note9.

Exceptional Accessories

The Galaxy Note9’s accessories selection includes a wide range of stylish covers that offer users more ways to customize their smartphone’s aesthetic. Designed to suit a wide array of tastes, the protective covers span from fine leather to military-grade options.

The new Leather Wallet Cover is perhaps the most eye-catching of the bunch. Crafted from genuine calf leather, it features a handy card pocket as well as a soft microfiber lining that helps protect the Galaxy Note9 from scratches. It’s available in a choice of five colors—black, brown, red, blue and yellow—which users are encouraged to mix and match with their Galaxy Note9 to showcase their style.

Also included in the Galaxy Note9’s collection of compatible accessories is Samsung’s new Wireless Charger Duo. A combination of the Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand and the Wireless Charging Pad, the fast-charging two-in-one allows users to quickly charge their phone alongside another Qi-compatible phone or wearable. The charger eliminates the need to fumble with cables each time you need to top up your devices’ batteries, and its built-in stand offers easy access to your phone’s screen.

*Each model’s S Pen is also available for individual sale.

**Certified MIL-STD-810G-516.7 compliant.

Originally launched as a product design studio for North America in 1994, the SDIC will merge with a new user-experience research arm to expand its role from designing products mostly individually to designing multi-device user-experiences. The mission of the SDIC will be to contribute to creating stronger insights based on a deep understanding of consumer lifestyle trends, as well as adapting to the changing trends and emerging lifestyle patterns of local markets. The center will also play an important role of envisioning product concepts that do not exist today and assist in the launch of those products to market. The SDIC is part of the Corporate Design Center, located in Seoul, and one of seven Samsung design studios globally.

Dr. Federico Casalegno, Head of the SDIC

Dr. Federico Casalegno, who has extensive experience as a designer and a social scientist at MIT, has recently joined Samsung Electronics. Dr. Casalegno’s expertise and interests lie in the impact of networked digital technologies on human behavior and society.

“In this age of connected devices, it is imperative that a designer understands and considers the cross-device user experience for every design element of a product, because most products no longer serve a standalone purpose anymore.” said Dr. Federico Casalegno, head of SDIC. “Our mission is to understand people and lifestyles to deliver meaningful experiences, through beautiful yet functional design, enabled by innovative cutting-edge technologies. With a talented team of multi-disciplinary designers, the SDIC will seek to leverage insights from the North American market and tap into the Silicon Valley entrepreneurial spirit to design inspiring products and experiences.”

“At Samsung, we recognize that our design and innovation have to be meaningful to people. It has to help people do more. User experiences must involve awareness of the other devices around them and work together. This is what consumers expect today,” said Don Tae Lee, head of the Corporate Design Center. “With the launch of the new center, we are establishing the framework to deliver that sort of experience to people across all our consumer devices.”

Form that is Perfected through Perpetual Refinement

The Galaxy S9 has been carefully and delicately shaped to preserve the bare essence of design. With attention to detail and precise technology, the Galaxy S9 showcases a perfectly singular form.

Experiencing Unity through Curves

To establish a visual sense of unity in their form, the display and body come together to create a single silhouette. The Galaxy S9 boasts an enhanced design quality by adjusting the curvatures of the body and display to swerve together. Users can experience oneness from the harmonious curves that connect the body and display.

A Visually and Functionally Enhanced Metal Frame

The metal frame uses an upgraded aluminum material with improved resistance to scratches. The frame is also slightly more protruded than the glass for an increase in durability. Samsung added a Satin Gloss finish to the metallic material to give a soft and glossy shine and established unity between the body and the frame by applying the same color to the frame and body.

Visually Experiencing Oneness

The front surface of the Galaxy S9 features a shortened length on the top and bottom part with a reduced bezel for deeper visual immersion. Furthermore, it concealed the hole used by various sensors on the top to minimize visual distraction.

Understanding Value through Usage

Some values cannot be understood by simple observation. The Galaxy S9 understands the nuances of a user’s experience and provides an optimized design.

Heartfelt Considerations and Detail in the Palm of Your Hand

The delicately crafted design of the Galaxy S9 is based on profound consideration for its users. The height and width of the Physical Key on the side has been adjusted for easier use with just one hand. The curves of the device’s sides have been gracefully reduced to allow for a much more stable and comfortable grip.

The two camera holes on the back are vertically aligned to create a slimmer and more stable look to the rear design. The camera and rear sensors are designed to blend even more harmoniously with the body. User’s comfort is further enhanced by the fingerprint sensor placed in the center to make it easier to reach with either the right and left hand.

Completing the Display Design

The all-new AOD (Always On Display) features 20 different GIF animations that are offered by default. Users can personally pick and choose images to put on display to reflect the user’s mood. The Lock Screen, which users see countless times throughout the day, has been designed to bring a sense of visual completeness. The various components of the Lock Screen, such as the text used for the clock and date, automatically change in color to adjust and blend to the background that has been set by the user to complete a wholesome and adaptable Lock Screen.

Relishing the Richness of Sound

The Galaxy S9 has changed to enrich our lives with the richness of sound. The dual speaker’s surrounding effect emits wide and far-reaching sound. The speaker hole on the bottom of the device has been combined into a single hole to orchestrate a much more natural sound.

Colors that Embody Light, Accessories that Embody Lifestyle

Samsung instilled the sensibilities and familiarities of everyday life into the smartphone, the one device users spend the most time with throughout the day.

With refined colors and a wide selection of accessories, the Galaxy S9 harmonizes more naturally with our daily lives and surrounding environments.

The Galaxy S9’s Colors that Capture the Course of a Day

The Galaxy S9’s four colors were created from the shades of light that change throughout the day. Black is inspired by the darkness of night just before dawn; Gray portrays the soft glow of light that passes through a frosty, foggy morning; Blue is the color of water when a warm ray of morning sun shines through; and Purple embodies the colorful palette of a sunset that spreads throughout the evening sky. Through the Galaxy S9, users can witness the perfect impressions of light as it travels the course of daily lives.

Accessories Instilled with Familiar Materials and Colors

The accessory cover comfortably and delicately fits the device, while reflecting users’ taste and lifestyle. On top of the previous clear cover and silicon cover, Samsung has ramped up the selection with new materials and colors. The Weaving is an exquisite cover that sports a fabric-based weaving pattern; the Hyper Knit uses materials from sneakers to give a boost to youthful and sports-like feel; the Rugged is a witty design that looks like a mini carrier; and the Alcantara demonstrates the high-quality finish of the fine leather. With this wide array of materials and designs for the accessories, the Galaxy S9 becomes a tool to express a user’s unique taste and style.

*Covers and other accessories are sold separately.

The delicately refined design of the Galaxy S9 accompanies the user in all moments, by gently permeating into the details of everyday lives to unveil its unique value more powerfully.

To see more Samsung Electronics design stories, please visit design.samsung.com.

The Big Screen for Bigger Things

The innovation of the Galaxy Note8’s design makes possible the 6.3-inch Infinity Display. Without obstructive bezels or physical buttons, the display seamlessly blends into the device’s body, adding to the phone’s eye-catching aesthetic while improving its functionality.

To ensure that the Galaxy Note8 achieves optimal performance, the enhanced Infinity Display incorporates a slightly more squared design and a slim bezel – refinements that help to maximize the flat area of the screen, and thus provide more surface area for writing and drawing with the S Pen.

The Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display takes more than 83 percent of the body of the device, making it the biggest screen on a Note device yet. Its expansive screen space – which in landscape mode offers a 14 percent wider viewing area than the Galaxy Note5 – and aspect ratio of 18.5:9 allow for incredibly immersive viewing experiences.

The back of the phone, which features a new dual camera as well as a fingerprint scanner, maintains an equally clean and continuous silhouette as the front of the device with virtually no protrusions. Together with its symmetrically curved design, these changes help to create an ergonomic grip that enables comfortable one-handed operation.

Easy on the Eyes, Smooth to the Touch

Available in four stunning colors, including the all-new Deepsea Blue, as well as Midnight Black, Orchid Gray and Maple Gold, the Galaxy Note8 has a premium look that fits almost any style.

Each color is enhanced by the glossy finishing of the phone’s materials, which was created through an intensive polishing process. The polishing was also applied to the frame of the Galaxy Note8, allowing for a seamless flow between the front and back sides of the device. The texture of the material is smooth to the touch, creating a sense of comfort.

Note-Worthy Accessories

The accessories of the Galaxy Note8 are designed to both protect the phone and offer a contemporary look and feel that fit a wide array of lifestyles. Many of the phone’s accessories have been designed to focus on the standing function of the Galaxy Note8 to enable users to more comfortably watch their favorite shows and movies on the device’s large screen.

The Protective Standing Cover, for example, is a military-grade* protective cover that provides unsurpassed protection of the Galaxy Note8 all the while offering a full view of its Infinity Display. A kickstand in the back props the phone up for better viewing, and pops off if too much pressure is applied so it doesn’t break. The Clear View Standing Cover also protects and holds the Galaxy Note8 at an optimal angle for viewing media, while its dedicated UX makes it easy to check alerts, take calls and more, without having to open it up.

The Alcantara Cover, 2Piece Cover and Clear Cover, which were all well received when launched with the Galaxy S8 and S8+, will also be available with the Galaxy Note8.

For more convenient charging, the Wireless Charger Convertible can be effortlessly adjusted to be a horizontal pad or vertical stand so users can continue using their device while powering up. Or, should they need to keep powered while on-the-go, the stylish and slim Battery Pack easily slips into a bag or pocket.

A New Rhythm

The Galaxy Note8’s brand sound has also been updated to better harmonize with the design of the device. The tune merges a “Pen Beat,” a rhythm made by drumming the S Pen on various items, and beat-boxing to produce a catchy and millennial-esque melody perfect for a ringtone or daily alarm.

* Certified MIL-STD-810G-516.7 compliant.

Samsung has partnered with Dezeen, a leading design and architectural magazine, to call for innovative stand concepts for Samsung’s QLED TV and announce the finalists for Samsung’s first ever global TV accessory design competition. The competition drew more than 1,200 participants from 83 different countries and the competition rate was as high as 80:1.

By making it to this stage of the competition, the 15 shortlisted designs will move on to the next round of judging, from which five designs will make the final cut. The final five will be announced on August 21, with each gaining a cash prize. A total prize of 30,000 euros will be awarded.

In order to participate in the competition, designers submitted their best QLED TV stand designs along with a corresponding strategic business plan.

Extraordinary designs

The competition’s shortlist features a variety of groundbreaking designs, including a TV stand that doubles as a plant pot and another that incorporates a decorative display shelf. Others include a design featuring a counter-weighted pulley system, one inspired by the Danish “hygge” craze and one that doubles as a surfboard stand.

Competition applicants were asked to develop their stand designs with a particular focus on users’ lifestyles in mind. While some of the designs are over-the-top, many that made the shortlist range from simple wooden designs and ceiling-mounted systems intended for minimal homes, to colored glass stands designed to match more luxurious interior décor.

Major showcase

The five finalists will also be invited to IFA (Internationale Funkausstellung) 2017, Europe’s leading consumer electronics and home appliance trade show, in Berlin, Germany from September 1 to 6. The top five designs will also be exhibited as part of a special installation at the Samsung booth at the show.

Samsung’s QLED TV is truly a lifestyle TV that gives consumers the freedom to place their television in various living spaces. The QLED TV is currently available in both flat and curved screen models and can be used with a variety of interchangeable stands, including the Gravity and Studio Stands. The QLED TV lineup is the first to standardize its TV stand structures, meaning each stand is compatible for the 55-inch and 65-inch QLED TV models as well as The Frame. These unique stands allow for consumers to customize their living spaces to fit their personal home aesthetic.

“Samsung believes in developing beautifully designed products that provide overall value to our consumers and their unique lifestyles. That’s why we’ve chosen to work with Dezeen to find the next great TV accessory,” said HyunSuk Kim, President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our products are not only about innovative technology alone, but also about enhancing users’ existing home décor.”

To learn more about Dezeen X Samsung and the QLED TV line, please visit the Dezeen and Samsung Websites.

Here, product concept developers Elin Park and Jeongmin Seo from the Gear 360’s Product Strategy Team, as well as product designers Woojung Moon, Minki Ham and Namkyu Kim from the Next Generation Design Team, discuss how they optimized the device’s usability from the planning stage, how that consideration is reflected in the final design, and how to put the camera’s innovations to use to create dynamic content.

Q. What types of consumers did Samsung have in mind when designing the new Gear 360?

Elin Park: Last year’s Gear 360 targeted tech-savvy early adopters who were curious to try out a new way to create unique content. When we expanded the functionality of this year’s model, we made the device more useful to the main creators and consumers of digital content: millennials.

This is a generation of consumers who are tech fluent and constantly plugged in, recording and sharing their daily lives in real time through social media. They also prioritize bang for their buck, which is why the device’s increased functionality ultimately comes with a decrease in price.

Q. Could you expand on how taking a millennial-focused approach shaped the new model’s development?

Jeongmin Seo: In order to make the device more appealing to millennials, our plan was to adhere to the basic identity of the previous model while improving its portability, usability and price. These efforts led to the addition of key functions that young consumers will appreciate, including the camera’s livestreaming* and video and photo editing features.

By introducing the ability to broadcast live in 360 degrees, the Gear 360 offers millennials new levels of digital engagement. This function allows those who view your content to experience the scene as if they were right there beside you, and creates an immersive means to share special moments or snapshots of daily life with family and friends. Not only can you enjoy various special effects like adding stickers or filters to photos, you can also get creative with 5 unique viewing modes available in the Gear 360 app, which allow content creators customize their videos and photos without the use of a special lens.

360 degree view, Round view, Dual view

Q. The original Gear 360’s spherical form was quite unique. What led to this year’s redesign?

Woojung Moon: Last year, we focused on creating a design that reflected the device’s main function: capturing a full, 360-degree view of a scene in all its detail. This year, our goal was to create a model that was user friendly and ready for anything, and would make it easy to capture and share high-quality pictures and videos.

Minki Ham: The original model’s spherical shape proved quite popular with users, which is why when crafting the new Gear 360, we focused on a design that maintained that round identity while making the device easy to use in everyday life. The new ergonomic handle is a product of this utility-focused design process.

Because the camera was built for fun, we went with a form that looks quite playful. Aesthetically, the device resembles a friendly cartoon character, and we actually created a limited-edition figurine that brings that character to life.

Q. What were some of the other adjustments that were made to streamline daily use?

Namkyu Kim: The new Gear 360 features a blend of inviting design and intuitive controls that make it a joy to use.

Because we wanted to ensure that the new model would be easy to interact with and carry, we chose to make it smaller and outfitted it with a handle and ring strap that provide a comfortable and secure grip.

By incorporating the ring strap, we’ve also provided users with a handy stand to use to prop up the device and record hands free. We also adjusted the camera’s shutter button to make it easier to access.

Q. How are the new Gear 360’s design and functions reflective of trends we’re seeing in the VR market?

Jeongmin Seo: When it comes to capturing content, the popular trend has shifted from photos to videos, from videos to VR, and ultimately to the platforms that provide the most realistic images.

In order to be successful, products like this must evolve with their platform. Right now, we’re seeing more and more popular media platforms – including YouTube and Facebook – incorporating support for 360-degree content, resulting in more consumers viewing and sharing immersive videos and images. This has resulted in a demand for VR technologies that allow users to create and fully experience dynamic 360-degree content.

Samsung created the Gear 360 to take 360-degree content to new heights. We streamlined the new model’s UX (user experience) and editing functions to make content easier to create. To illustrate VR’s ability to foster realistic viewing experiences, we’ve partnered with BuzzFeed and NowThis to create 360-degree content that allows viewers to immerse themselves in engaging stories anytime, anywhere.

Together with the Gear 360’s livestreaming capability and streamlined design, these collaborations will inspire more users to create and share their own 360-degree videos and experiences.

Q. In your opinion, what are some examples of content that’s best captured in 360 degrees?

Elin Park: Many consumers will purchase a camera for use during special occasions, such as a family vacation. However, our daily lives are, in fact, full of unique moments and memories that are perfect for capturing in 360 degrees.

Whether you’re recording your latest vlog or your child’s soccer game, a scenic vista or a family wedding, the Gear 360 allows you to capture a complete view of special moments, big or small, in a way that smartphones simply cannot.

*Live Broadcast resolution is 1920 x 960 and requires Nougat OS and compatibility varies by device, OS and region.

The top five finalists of the “Dezeen X Samsung QLED TV: Stand Design Competition” will be invited to Internationale Funkausstellung (IFA) 2017, Europe’s leading consumer electronics and home appliance trade show, held from September 1 to September 4 in Berlin, Germany.

These designs will be produced into real stands, which will be exhibited as part of a special installation at IFA 2017 in the Samsung booth. The grand prize winner of the competition will be announced at IFA and will be awarded an 8,000 euro prize.

“We want to give everyone, including our consumers, the opportunity to show off their creativity and help us design the next big TV accessory,” said HS.Kim, President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s ultimate vision is to create an open platform for designers all over the world where they can showcase their ingenuity through unique stand designs that fit into a variety of home environments.”

Samsung’s QLED TV is a true lifestyle TV that gives consumers the freedom to place their television anywhere in their home. The QLED TV’s revolutionary design elements address consumer pain points in order to create technology that fits within each individual home regardless of the design aesthetic.

Last month, Samsung announced the rollout of its recently released QLED TV accessories, including the Gravity and Studio stands, as well as its innovative Invisible Connection, a transparent optical cable designed to eliminate the previously messy setup of televisions. These diverse stands allow for individual customization, while the optical cable allows users to remove clutter and reclaim their living space.

Samsung’s QLED TV lineup was the first in the world to standardize its TV stand structures, making them compatible for both the 55-inch and 65-inch QLED TV models as well as The Frame. Starting with these products, Samsung aims to expand the TV accessory market.

With over 13 million unique monthly views and 2.8 million active subscribers, Dezeen is one of the largest online design publications. The outlet’s primary audience is architecture and design professionals as well as knowledgeable technology and design consumers.

Participants in the competition are required to submit an innovative rendering and 3D drawing of their design and tactical business plan for their TV stand. The application and submission process will be conducted through the Dezeen website.

To download an application and learn more about Dezeen X Samsung, please visit www.dezeen.com.

Members of the Samsung Mobile UX Innovation Team discuss with Samsung Newsroom the concept, the improvements and the inspiration of the Galaxy S8’s UX.

Q. What is the overall concept of the Galaxy S8 UX?

Joan Park: The overall concept of the Galaxy S8’s UX is ‘New Rhythm.’ The word ‘rhythm’ is derived from the PIE root ‘sreu,’ meaning ‘to flow.’ We chose this concept to introduce new services and functions through the smartphone’s UX and to enhance the flow of user interactions to better fit the way people use their phones today. Like the design of the device itself, the UX is seamless, unifying both visual and audio components to establish one continuous experience.

Q. How was this concept applied to the phone’s visual language?

Joan Park: The Infinity Wallpaper of the customizable Always On Display complements the color of the phone and makes use of the captivating Infinity Display to visually immerse the user. Its eye-catching aesthetic transitions smoothly to the Lock, Home and Apps screens for an added effect.

Seockhyun Yu: We applied similar dynamic effects to other apps to not only create a fun and immersive experience, but to ensure that users could intuitively use the device, guided by visual interaction. For example, users can easily zoom in and out on the Camera app by sliding the shutter button rather than using a pinch-zoom gesture. Also, when making or receiving a call, the color scheme is extracted from the contact’s picture and is displayed as the background in a gradient form.

Heekyung Deon: Even the phone’s icons and typography incorporate the Galaxy S8’s design language through a series of continuous curves and lines – an aesthetic inspired by a ‘Light & Line’ concept that is drastically different from previous Galaxy models. By cutting certain parts of the icons’ lines, we replicated a play of light and shadow that can be observed in everyday life. The result is a design that is systematic but also unique.

Q. What were the changes made to the phone’s audio language?

Josh Youn: We wanted to complete the user experience through the musical interpretation of the Galaxy S8’s visual experience and overall aesthetic. Therefore, the essence of the phone’s visual language was injected into the Galaxy S8’s brand sound “Over the Horizon.” The latest version of the song aims to manifest the yearnings and changes of our current age, appealing especially to the millennial generation.

The phone’s ringtones have also been updated to better harmonize with the icons, wallpaper and exterior design of the device. Furthermore, five new vibration patterns that differ in strength, length and frequency have been added.

Q. What is the biggest difference in the Galaxy S8’s UX compared to the previous model?

Seungwook Nam: Perhaps the most noticeable difference in design is the considerably larger display. To create this expanded screen space, visually obtrusive elements were minimized, and the home key was embedded underneath the screen. We needed to make sure, however, that this alteration did not create any inconveniences for the user.

So, to ensure they could use their phones in a familiar way, we made it so that the ‘invisible’ home button would function in the way a typical home key would. Furthermore, when watching videos or playing games, users simply need to press and hold the location where the home button would normally be to activate its functionality, rather than pulling up a navigational menu, like some other smartphones require users to do.

Q. What improvements have been made to the Galaxy S8’s edge screen?

July Baek: With the Galaxy S8, we’ve made two major changes to the edge UX to enhance usability and allow users to do more, right from the edge screen. First, we added a new Edge lighting feature, which illuminates the edges of the smartphone when the user receives a notification to create a fuller experience. We also provided a notification preview function to alert users of incoming calls or messages while minimizing screen distractions so they can stay focused on their movie or game.

Secondly, we expanded the edge panel through the addition of Clipboard edge, Device maintenance, Smart select and Reminder panels to facilitate the user experience. The Clipboard edge panel, for example, can be accessed when using an app, without having to navigate between windows to access saved images or text.

Q. How has the Always on Display been updated?

Hayoung Kim: We also added FaceWidgets to the Always On Display. By double tapping the clock, users can scroll through these widgets to quickly control music playback, view their schedule and check upcoming alarms. Furthermore, users can customize their Always On Display screen with memos and to-do lists via the Pin to Always On Display function via the Reminder app.

Q. How would you define the perfect UX?

Junwon Jung: A good UX is not only appealing to the eye, but is also easy and fun to navigate, and built with comprehensive features. Furthermore, a UX isn’t simply what appears on the screen – it’s a continuous stream of use. Therefore, all of its elements must work harmoniously.

That’s why “perfect” is not a completed state but rather a process. Samsung’s UX designers are continuously working to understand what users want so that we can achieve a UX that’s as close to perfect as possible.

Q. Where does the UX team get their inspiration?

Hyunkyoung Kim: We are continuously listening to fellow employees’ ideas and keeping an eye on various blogs to better understand the current needs in the market. We also look at user reviews of previous products to make improvements on future models.

For example, the Samsung Connect feature that allowed users to play TV audio from their smartphone could previously only be activated when the Galaxy S7 was connected to a pair of earphones. But, after reviewing user feedback, we designed the Galaxy S8 so that it can play TV audio via its built-in speaker.

Through continuous brainstorming with related divisions and departments, we are always working to create innovative functions that add to the user experience. It’s very satisfying to receive positive user feedback regarding the newly applied features born from our efforts.

Hyoungshin Park, Hyoksu Choi, Yunjin Kim (top row), Hyejin Bang, and Hwanju Jeon (bottom row) of the Design Team at Samsung Electronics’ Mobile Communications Business discuss how the design of the Galaxy S8 was brought to life.

Q. Is there an overarching design philosophy that defines Samsung’s smartphones?

Hyoungshin Park: The very foundation of Samsung’s smartphone design is built on neutrality. Through the pursuit of neutrality, we are able to create designs that blend naturally into the environment, seamlessly integrating with the lives of all users, regardless of their age, gender or geographic location.

Q. How has neutrality influenced the design of the Galaxy S8 specifically?

Hyoungshin Park: It’s often said that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and this certainly rings true for smartphones. So, in line with our philosophy of neutrality, we aimed to create a seamless design that highlights the visual unity of the device under the concept of ‘oneness.’

To do so, we focused on creating a design that is harmonious, natural and centered on the true essence of the Galaxy S8. First, the display was softened with rounded corners to harmonize with the device’s subdued aesthetic. Next, we refined the curves on the phone’s frames to make it feel more natural in the hand. Finally, the sensors and keys on the front of the smartphone were refined to highlight its display, the true essence of the device.

Q. The Galaxy S8 incorporates glass and, two materials that Samsung has used in past smartphone designs. How does the concept of oneness apply to these materials?

Hyejin Bang: Samsung’s CMF (Colors, Materials, Finish) designers have always sought out materials that add the most value to the device. Glass and metal provide a perfect balance between aesthetically pleasing design and smartphone hardness and shock-resistance.

The Galaxy S8 in particular is differentiated by the oneness of its materials. The colors of the materials have been tuned to create a seamless transition from metal to glass. To harmonize the design, various finishes were applied – the light-reflecting nano-patterns on the glass and a high gloss finish on the side metal frame. This ‘Liquid Shade’ concept naturally embraces the structure, unifying its shape through color.

Q. Unlike previous devices, which boasted a uniform color on the front bezel and backside, all versions of the Galaxy S8 feature a black front bezel, despite the color of their rear body. What’s the reason for this?

Hyoksu Choi: Although the smartphone evolved from the telephone, it has developed into a display device, more than anything else.

Recognizing this as the smartphone’s true essence, we felt that we needed to enhance the immersiveness of the display. By applying black bezels and tint prints on the front of the smartphone to hide the front sensors, camera and other technical components, the display appears to seamlessly stretch from the top to the bottom of the device when not in use.

Q. What inspired these colors?

Hwanju Jeon: We selected the Galaxy S8 colors based on color trends in the fashion, interior design and automotive industries, among others, through cooperation with overseas design labs. We specifically looked at colors that express vibrancy and liveliness – hues that speak to young Millennials. The new color, Orchid Gray, for example, combines a trendy purple hue and a subtle gray to evoke a sense of uniqueness.

Q. There were also some changes to the smartphone’s buttons and keys. What are the reasons behind the changes?

Yujin Kim: In order to maintain the essence of the smartphone as a display device, we placed the Home button behind the display, which provides the same haptic feedback as a hard key when pushed. We also moved the fingerprint scanner to the back of the device – a location users can easily reach when holding the device in their hand. Through these changes, we were able to create more screen space without sacrificing convenience.

Furthermore, we adopted a designated button for Bixby and placed it just below the side key to allow for instant access and intuitive usability, without compromising the design of the device. It was a long journey to find the right balance between technological evolution and consistent user experience.

 Q. Considering so many different people worked on various aspects of the design, how were you able to apply the concept of ‘oneness’ to create a coherent design?

Hyoungshin Park: Designing the Galaxy S8 was a lengthy, systematic process – one that lasted much longer than a year! – and required a great deal of teamwork. From the get-go, we looked at social, cultural, technological and design trends in different regions throughout the world, and identified those that overlapped. After all, good product design isn’t simply inspired by art, but rather by the people that use it.

From there, we compiled keywords and images to create a sort of map and distributed it to designers, who then established a set of common design goals. This process allowed strategy, product design and CMF design teams to have a clear understanding of the direction of the design. As a result, the form, colors, materials and concepts of the device are aesthetically and functionally coherent.

Q. While good design is no doubt an essential component of a smartphone, so is technological innovation. How did the design and development teams work together to harmoniously merge form with function on the Galaxy S8?

Hyoungshin Park: Of course, our team worked together closely, but constant cooperation with other teams was necessary to ensure a quality final product. Perhaps the matter that demanded the most cooperation was applying rounded corners to the Infinity Display.

First, we had to find a way to ensure that the design would not interfere with the UX. So, the UX design team performed various user simulations to determine the number of pixels needed to create a rounded corner. Next, the product and design teams developed a round design to fit the curvature of the edge glass and outline of the product under the conditions determined by the UX team. The hardware team then introduced a format that would cut off the display to fit the design, while we worked with software team to create a more refined representation of the screen on the rounded corner.

Of course, designers and engineers speak very different languages so we often gathered together to translate words to numbers and vice versa so we could all be on the same page. In the end, however, we were able to collectively, as one, achieve our goals.

Q. As a smartphone user – and not just a designer – are there any features that you, personally, were happy to see added to the Galaxy S8?

Yujin Kim: Our smartphones are constantly in our hands, so, for me, a comfortable grip is really important. Although the grip of the Galaxy S7 was well received, we wanted to make it even better with the Galaxy S8, and made more than 100 prototypes to get it right. Through slight changes in the form and the addition of small details, we were able to create a device that fits comfortably and naturally in the hand.

Q. Which part of your job do you enjoy the most?

Yunjin Kim: Designing a smartphone can be very demanding. Timelines are tight and there’s certainly no room for carelessness. Nevertheless, we are essentially designing a product that people use over and over, every day. It’s always fascinating to imagine how people might use our product, or what they would look like doing so. There’s no greater reward than seeing someone benefiting from a device that I helped design.

Japan is a place where technology and aesthetics meticulously blend to perfection.

In Tokyo, a trend-setting city equipped with high-end technology and delicate infrastructure, Samsung Design Japan (SDJ) contributes to raising global competitiveness through novel and innovative research activities.

SDJ offers design solutions for hit products in Japan, where diverse cultures are both embraced and enhanced to excellence with their own significance.

One of the unique dynamics of Japan is their ability to accept and characteristically develop various cultures and information to create a perfect design solution for a hit product that appeals to everyone. It is an office of convergence where research, experimentation, and prototype development are all conducted in the processes of foreseeing future trends and reflecting real user needs.

SDJ maximizes global competitiveness based on CMF advanced technology, service, and infrastructure.

We’re able to raise the bar for product quality and develop new colors and post-processing through a combination of highly advanced technology, design infrastructure, and craftsmanship focusing on the smallest of details. SDJ has become the design bedrock on which global competitiveness is maximized through the realization and proposal of prototypes with various possibilities using a newly developed and innovative CMF(Color/Material/Finishing).

HISTORY & AWARDS

Greetings from the Director

OUR TEAM

Product Strategy Team

The Product Strategy Team formulates strategy by researching and analyzing the seeds of next generation products and services discovered from Japan’s social trends that have been through both high and low growths over the course of history. This strategy serves as the foundation for Samsung to identify new areas of opportunity.

Product Design Team

The Product Design Team develops products for the purpose of creating new value through design. The team develops design mock-ups and evaluates marketability (mass production capability) to provide users with appealing products.

UX Team

The UX team designs optimal user experiences for newly established product and service categories. Considering potential user needs and human factors, the team carries out GUI (Graphic User Interface) design, UI (User Interface) design, and UX prototypes to provide advanced user experiences.

OUR WORKS

NX1 (left) and NX30 (right)

NX1

NX1 is a product designed to establish the design identity of high-end mirrorless cameras. Its elaborately designed details and solid magnesium body are part of a stylishly classic design that provides a sense of perfected technology.

NX30

The NX30 inherited and improved upon the premium classic and ergonomic design of the NX series. A rubberized Wrap Grip was applied to all areas where the hand touches the camera, enhancing both the visual and tactile sense of grip.

WA-4000HH (left) and New A3 Biz. (right)

WA-4000HH

This top loading washing machine has been developed with the rough laundering styles of users in India and Southeast Asia in mind. The product is a collaborative effort between the Digital Home Appliances design team, SDJ, and Samsung Design Delhi(SDD) that reflect Samsung’s design identity.

New A3 Biz.

The purpose of the A3 printer is to increase intellectual productivity. Its UX design thus maximizes usability and intuitiveness by simplifying the steps a user would take to access the printer. Given the way printers are used by multiple users in offices, we expanded its functions to make group operations easier and more accessible.

Galaxy J (left) and Galaxy J UX (right)

Galaxy J

The Galaxy J is exclusive to the Japan market and has been completely designed, from product and UX to CMF by SDJ. The Parting Line has been minimized and the simplicity of Galaxy J’s exterior has been amplified by removing graphic patterns. On top of that, a fresh color much preferred by young women in their twenties and thirties has been applied.

Galaxy J UX

We developed and installed a new Japanese input system, System ‘8 Flick’, which can quickly switch between Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji all at once. Despite the limited space on a smartphone’s screen, users can enter characters more quickly with fewer errors. Also due to the history of natural disasters that occurred in Japan, we installed a ‘Long Life Mode’ function that maintains battery life in order to enable emergency communication.

Next Driving Force 1 (left) and Next Driving Force 2 (right)

Next Driving Force 1

The next generation collaborative CMF(Color/Material/Finishing) project showcases SDJ’s state-of-the-art material and processing technology that is actualized in product design. The exhibition, held under the theme ‘Integrated Design’, was an opportunity for SDJ to apply its unique CMF research and know-how to actual businesses. This exhibition presented mock-up of vacuum cleaners that went on to become a popular exhibit in the 2014 CES.

Next Driving Force 2

The ‘Next Driving Force’ that began in 2013 has continued since then. With suggestions made through advanced CMF that incorporates SDJ’s cutting-edge material processing technology, we established a strategic partnership with Japanese businesses in which we can exclusively utilize their innovative technology.

Featuring a clean aesthetic with a slim body and nearly-there bezel, QLED TV is suitable for open spaces, while its new colors and materials blend naturally into the living environment. With a no-gap wall mount, it can easily and neatly be installed flush against the wall. Or, should the users prefer a bit more choice about the location of their TV, a collection of new stands offers an array of options. The QLED TV’s practically invisible optical cable frees the area of messy wires, making it a device that is truly designed for living.

Watch as some of the minds behind the 360° design of QLED TV discuss how Samsung’s latest television is transforming the living space of tomorrow, today in the video below.

For additional information about the design features of 2017 Samsung QLED TV, check out the following link:

How QLED TV Blends into Your Living Room

Playful Design

Like a cute figurine, the iconic yet inviting design of the Gear 360 is an object you can’t help but look at, touch, hold in your hand… it’s also intuitively easy to use as it is inviting!

Continuous Grip

For Everyone

Flat-bar, round, twist… many types of grips were prototyped and tested before we decided on a continuous grip that combines the body with the handle of the camera. A form that we think maintains a steady grip but also doesn’t limit the 360° camera frame. The spherical body sits upon a shaft that tapers out at the bottom for stability but also creating more room for the hardware. The rounded finishes as well as the material is great for holding the Gear 360 in your hand. Really, a new yet wholly natural play on the words ‘point and shoot’.

Family Look

For Consistency

The encompassing look of the Gear 360 is undeniably a spherical shape. Maintaining this identity as well as adding a grip was the task we had to complete. With the continuous grip, we made a drastic change in the design and look of the camera yet kept the screw thread at the bottom of the grip for tripod heads and other universal camera accessories. Easier to use with more options!

Iconic Design

Built Just for You

Millennials and female users alike will really warm up to the design of the new Gear 360. The spherical camera body is almost like a cartoon character figurine you display on your desk. Not only that the soft material of the device makes it that much more fun to interact with. The strap ring supports the camera when it stands as well as preventing scratches on the lens is made of the same material.

Useful Function

A 360° camera built for Millennials, Everything you need to record your moments of life.

SNS Live Streaming

At Last, Your Own 360° Show

Live streaming function has been added to the new Gear 360. Whether it’s Facebook or YouTube *, it’s possible to stream your very own 360° internet show. Go on, it’s that easy!

4K High Resolution Content

Every Moment in High-Def

Real 4K 360° video recording with surround Landscape HDR — larger pixels for unbelievably sharp images. Easy to use high definition quality!

Fun & Easy Editing

Edit Like You Film – with Ease

For more conventional channels, it’s easy to edit your 360° video content. Also, a vast array of filters and effects as well as various stickers adds new flavor to your uploads. Easy to edit 360° video!

Share Your World In A Whole New Way

Our changing world brings forth new technology. We here at Samsung Electronics have looked at Millennials and their unique lifestyles and designed a product we feel is for them and ultimately built by them. No longer limiting our memories to small narrow frames, the Gear 360 encompasses the multitude of channels that this digital generation embraces into a continuous whole where not even the sky is close to the limit.

* Some functions may differ according to device model, OS or region

Innovation means breaking away from familiarity. It is about changing the way we see and use things, which has the power to transform the way we live and think. Instead of another addition to the lineup of generic smartphones, we present a completely renewed and unique design of the Galaxy S8.

Oneness

New value created from one single design

The Galaxy S8 is a manifestation of holistic oneness. Elements that felt needlessly mechanical have been eliminated to only focus on the essence of the device itself, which resulted in a design that merges the user and device as one. Extraordinary technology serves as an innovative silhouette of the device as well as gives users extended experiences.

Infinity Display

The Galaxy S8 uses the entire front panel as its display, leaving a powerful silhouette that surpasses the limits of current devices. The Home button has been removed to utilize its technical space to expand user space and shatter the boundary between the device and the real world. The 18.5:9 screen ratio maximizes immersion and leads users to new experiences.

A grip made from curves

A grip is defined by how well a device’s curves fit in a hand. The subtle curvature of the device’s front, back, and middle convene at each of the edges to form a perfect symmetry, thereby virtually eliminating the bezel. The curves are harmoniously synchronized with the rounded edges to fit comfortably in a user’s hand.

Glass flowing like streams of water

The glass material has a glossy finish that naturally blends in with the scene, rendering a brilliant reflection of the world around you even while the device is off. The flow of the glass material and the hidden rear camera lens creates a sense of unified fluidity of the Galaxy S8 design.

Harmony

Capturing the beauty of both harmony and individuality

Complicated, multi-layered connections and nuances are prevalent throughout our society and culture. Boundaries have diminished among various fields and the desire to be unbiased about a particular region, gender, or age is growing larger. The Galaxy S8 design is about maintaining a natural balance that suits well with anyone, instead of striving to appeal to specific preferences.

Neutral colors with elegance

Neutral colors blend in with our lives effortlessly due to its balanced nature. Neutral colors provide comfort by lowering the intensity of color saturation, and at times can also create unforeseen beauty as light touches the glass in various angles. Midnight Black has great depth and is reminiscent of solid onyx, emphasizing a strong sense of unity. The warm vibes of Arctic Silver and the golden profundity of Maple Gold preserve the integrity of their original colors while bringing out the natural ease of neutral colors. The calm and mysterious Orchid Gray and the muted brightness of Coral Blue that is a reinterpretation of youthful sensibilities are colors that are trendy yet balanced.

Accessories harmonizing with all spaces and circumstances

Accessories attract just as much attention as the device. The case is made from Alcantara, a material that is soft yet doesn’t show signs of wear and tear even after prolonged use. It fits in the palm easily and exudes a sophisticated aura.

The translucent cover mixes and matches with the colors of the Galaxy S8 and brings unexpected beauty into existence.

The silicone cover boasts vivid colors which are representative of the millennial generation. With its flexible and unconstrained design, the Galaxy S8 becomes an object of everyday life that adapts to any space or circumstance.

Continuity

A unified language of design spoken from the inside out

A product loses its sense of unity when the external hardware design and the internal software interface design aren’t cohesive. Only when a product feels cohesive can its design provide stability to the users. Galaxy S8’s innovative exterior speaks a single language of design that seamlessly connect from the inside to the outside, and again from the outside to the inside.

Visual experiences stemming from first impressions

Starting from the user’s initial interaction with the Always On Display to the Lock and Home screen, ambient visual effects of a galaxy are displayed throughout. This beautiful first impression gently flows in the background while the user interacts with the Galaxy S8. A series of wallpapers based on differing CMF and mood as well as the interactive galaxy effects respond differently to new angles providing a sense of infinite expansion and continuation that is felt both from the exterior and within the display.

One Continuous Experience

The Galaxy S8 Home screen features a totally new design, including icons, search bar, and even weather widgets, that altogether provide a sleek impression to its users. The icons are designed using a concept called ‘Light & Line’, which cuts a part of the visual line so that real life shadows and light are mimicked. Users can feel One Continuous Experience from the new soft Home button to the icons in the display that all speak a single language of design. Users can move to apps from the Home screen using a simple vertical swipe. It provides an easier and more intuitive accessibility than previous Home screens by unifying all methods of editing displays and offering multi-selection modes.

Newness

The beginning of a renewed interface that understands its user

Over the past decade, interactions with smartphones have mostly been touch-based. We introduce an evolved next generation interface, Bixby, that responds to both touch and voice. Users can freely and seamlessly choose the way they want to interact based on their environment. Pressing the newly added button on the left side of the device will provide optimized information, and speaking to the device while holding the button will understand the user’s rhythm and pace to get the task done. Bixby is constantly evolving, so the longer users interact with it the more Bixby becomes an essential confidant of our daily lives.

Bixby understands and takes care of you

Bixby analyzes voice patterns and provides information in a card format that is appropriate to the context. When you turn on Bixby while heading home after work, it will display a calendar card about family gatherings, or a contact card of a close friend you speak to at that time. Users can retrieve needed information from each card without having to access the app every time.

No need for perfect articulation

Accessing all features through touch alone isn’t necessary. Bixby is equipped to provide voice responding functions that previously only have been accessed through touch. A more natural voice interaction is enabled through Partial Landing technology that comprehends users’ commands from the given context, and fills in the gaps by presenting additional options.

Seeing more than what is visible

Bixby can recognize images the user is seeing and provide relevant information. Users can press the Bixby Vision icon while turning on the camera or looking at an image from the gallery to prompt a search regarding a product or place that is shown on the screen or even recognize and translate text.

Bixby, telling you what’s needed

Record any content or task you want to remember later through Bixby to have it remind you later. Whether it’s a reminder to watch a video when you get home or simply to do your laundry, just save the information on Reminder and Bixby will keep you on track.

An expanded experience that transcends beyond the mobile into our daily lives

The next generation Bixby interface extends beyond the mobile environment. The Galaxy S8 provides users a computing experience similar to a PC through Samsung DeX, and with Samsung Connect,* users can also control Samsung home appliances and SmartThings IoT devices released in 2017. Users can consistently continue on with their mobile experiences that extend into their daily lives.

*Samsung Connect is available in selected countries only.

The Galaxy S8 pushes boundaries and overcomes limits to create a single, unified design that is more straightforward and concise than any other tool that has ever been held in our hands. All experiences come into unison through the Galaxy S8, helping users advance toward discovering a new meaning of their daily lives.

To see more Samsung Electronics desgin stories, please visit design.samsung.com.

Inspired by the total design refinement of the Galaxy S8 and S8+, Patrik Schumacher and Johannes Schafelner of Zaha Architects, known for conjuring diverse shapes and curved masterpieces, collaborated with Universal Everything, to create an interactive experience. Visitors can journey through a completely bespoke interior, triggering mesmerizing digital installations and bringing to life the Galaxy design philosophy.

“Milan Design Week represents a unique opportunity to demonstrate the total refinement of the Galaxy S8 and S8+ amongst the brightest and best minds of the design industry,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “The Galaxy S8 and S8+ showcase our commitment to meaningful innovation; with the bezel-less surround and Infinity Display we have designed a device that connects with the user like never before, with function not limited by form.”

“We’re truly excited to welcome the design community to our installation with Samsung during Milan Design Week” said Patrik Schumacher, Principle, Zaha Hadid Architects. “Unconfined sets a benchmark in the way materials and technology come together to create a natural flow between device and user and was the inspiration for our fantastic collaboration with Universal Everything. We often look at the logic and coherence of nature’s systems when we are working to create environments that seamlessly connect form and function using innovative designs and technologies. This research is integrated within every aspect of the installations design.”

Finally, Samsung and Wallpaper* created an exclusive Design Book to celebrate the Galaxy S8’s aesthetic innovation. Readers will learn more about the Samsung hardware and software design philosophy and get an inside look into the Galaxy S8’s physical creation including photos from Samsung’s factory in Vietnam. Readers will also have access to exclusive commentary and interpretations of the concepts that inspired the Galaxy S8’s design by influential contemporary artists and design commentators, as well as Wallpaper* Bespoke Editor, Simon Mills . Access a digital version of the Galaxy S8’s Design Book at http://www.samsungmobilepress.com/galaxydesignbook/

From April 4-9, visitors to Unconfined: The Galaxy S8 Design will be able to get a first look at the Galaxy S8 and see for themselves the design refinement this new piece of technology for the modern age.

Samsung Electronics announced that it won 49 iF Design Awards, including one Gold award, at the world-renowned International Forum Design Awards 2017. Thirty-five of the awards were given for superior product design, four for professional concept design, seven for communication design, and three for packaging design.

“Upgrading a product is easy but upgrading consumer lifestyle is difficult. We will continue to strive for design that entertains and fulfills the lives of our consumers through consumer-focused innovation,” said BK Yoon, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics and the Head of the Corporate Design Center at Samsung.

Samsung received the Gold award for the ArtPC Pulse, a premium desktop computer with advanced expandable modules. The ArtPC Pulse integrates a high-performance PC into a refined cylinder form. It can expand its function with extended modules for HDD storage and a 360-degree speaker in a detachable rotary structure. The award-winning design of the ArtPC Pulse includes minimalist styling on its fully metal body as the buttons and port are all located at the rear of the product.

In addition to the Gold award, Samsung won 34 other iF Design Awards in the product category:

• Galaxy S7 Series, flagship smartphone designed with 3D forming glass technology to enhance grip
• Gear S3, smartwatch with an innovative round bezel and spinning UI
• Galaxy C9 Pro, 6.9mm thickness smartphone with full-metal unibody design, available in China and India
• SUHD TV KS9500, premium TV with beautiful 360 design, including a floating screen in the front and a delicate real metal line on the back
• RB38K7998S4, Smart Family Hub refrigerator features a 21.5” LCD touch screen allowing users to manage and see the food in the fridge without having to open the door
• Activewash series, touch controls located on the top back, it allows users to look inside the drum from a better viewing angle

Organized by the International Forum Design, the iF Design Awards began in Germany in 1953. Product submissions are based on a comprehensive evaluation of design, material suitability, innovativeness and seven additional categories: Product, Packaging, Communication, Interior Architecture, Professional Concept, Service Design, and Architecture.

These days, businesses such as restaurants, cafes and shops are placing more and more focus on creating aesthetically consistent interiors. Samsung’s 360 Cassette, the world’s first circular-designed air conditioner, offers powerful, even airflow and boasts a design that blends seamlessly with a variety of environments, allowing proprietors to create sophisticated and beautiful interiors that resonate with customers.

Now, to make it even easier to integrate the device in a way that suits its surrounding décor, Samsung has created customizable design panels that may be applied directly to the 360 Cassette to complement each business’s individual aesthetic.

Turkey’s Zübeyde Hanım Educational Institution was the first to attach one of the stylish designs to its 360 Cassette, opting for a design panel that displayed its school symbol. Subsequent design panels have been applied in locations spanning several fields, including a suburban cafe in Korea.

A Design to Suit Every Interior

Recently, Korean café A Twosome Place customized its 360 Cassette air conditioner with an aesthetic-amplifying design panel

The 360 Cassette’s design panels allow users to customize the air conditioner’s aesthetic to match their store’s interior. To help users find the perfect pattern to suit their style, Samsung created a diverse collection of designs tailored to match any decor. Choices include a range of colors, woods and branded designs.

After applying a matte black branded design panel to his café’s 360 Cassette, A Twosome Place’s manager remarked that the design blended seamlessly with the décor and added a sense of aesthetic harmony

A Rounded Approach to Air Conditioning

Whereas traditional air conditioners may yield uncomfortable drafts and uneven airflow, the 360 Cassette’s ‘rounded’ approach allows it to provide optimum efficiency and comfort.

The 360 Cassette’s design panels allow users to customize the air conditioner’s aesthetic to match the interior

The 360 Cassette’s circular design is responsible for the comfortable atmosphere the appliance provides, preventing its breeze from directly contacting the skin and evenly distributing air without traditional air conditioners’ ‘blind spots.’ This design was made possible by discarding with the blades that traditionally control wind direction and instead inserting a Booster Fan, which guides air to provide even, horizontal airflow that feels pleasant in any spot.

By paying equal attention to function and design, the 360 Cassette offers businesses a versatile and efficient air conditioning solution that both looks and feels great.

Samsung Electronics has reinforced its position as a worldwide leader in technological innovation, announcing the launch of Samsung Design Latin America, located in the company’s regional office in São Paulo. Through this initiative, Samsung will conduct surveys with consumers throughout the region to gain insight on their needs, and utilize its team of highly qualified designers to develop products across a range of categories.

“We want to do more than simply innovate for innovation’s sake; we want to produce new designs that enchant consumers and have a positive impact on their daily lives,” said Vivian Jacobsohn Serebrinic, the Director af Samsung Design Latin America. “This is a bold new step for Samsung, as few multinational companies have design centers in this region focusing on mobile devices, TVs and home appliances.”

The Samsung Design Latin America team is interested in hearing what local consumers have to say and identifying their needs, in an effort to place themselves in consumers’ shoes and ultimately develop customized solutions. As Serebrinic explained, “This can be done through the adaptation of product features, whether it be hardware or software, or even through the creation of an entirely original product. Every solution begins with consumer empathy – not solely by listening to what consumers have to say, but by going deep down to capture how they feel about and interact with our products.”

Samsung’s Research and Development department, which counts over 65,000 employees worldwide, develops innovative new technologies by thinking of applications that will be relevant to users.

In that spirit, the Samsung Design Latin America team will meet with both typical consumers and so-called ‘extreme users’, such as chefs, to gain a thorough understanding of both groups’ respective requirements of specific products and identify any needs that have not yet been addressed. The team will focus on enriching the user experience by presenting products that are not only enchanting and entertaining, but also functional, easy to use, capable of simplifying daily activities, and able to adapt according to consumers’ behaviors.

“We utilize a great deal of design tools to transform the innovation process from the user’s point of view,” said Serebrinic. “We believe that ideas are not born ready to go, but are rather products of interactions with the consumers who help us hone our devices in accordance with their needs. This is another point that distinguishes Samsung. This user-focused approach to development allows us to design products that harmonize with the lifestyles of consumers throughout Latin America.”

From Regional Trends to Global Solutions

Latin American consumers prize innovation and their region is seeing an increase in internet access, leading them to demand faster and more effective technologies.

In addition to tailoring designs to meet local consumers’ needs, Samsung strongly believes that insights regarding new trends may be found in any corner of the globe. For this reason, and through studying the Latin American consumer, Samsung seeks to transform, through innovation, insights gained on regional trends into meaningful global solutions.

“Samsung is proud to be a part of Latin American consumers’ daily lives, and believes that the region’s rich and vibrant cultures contain valuable insights to offer the entire world,” said Serebrinic. “As we like to say, we develop locally inspired products that can become universal.”

Samsung Design Delhi is Located in Noida, Part of the National Capital Region of India.

Noida is an industrial hub of Northern India, and SDD is strategically placed along with the Samsung Research Institute, Noida at Logix Cyber Park. The design center is also located in close vicinity to the SRID (Samsung R&D Institute India – Delhi) and SIEL (Samsung India Electronics of Production Ltd.) manufacturing unit in Noida.

SDD is a Vital Part of the Community Leading the Way in Design

SDD was established in March, 2008 to support HQ by validating Feature Phone design preferences with local users of the South West Asia region. SDD gradually expanded its design task force, from 13 people when it started out, to over 50 designers in 2016. The majority of the designers are from tier 1 design universities around India, with a diverse design skill set such as UX, ID, CMF, graphics & packaging, research, and service design. Collaborative teamwork helps SDD to produce holistic design output with SIEL’s Sales & Marketing and R&D departments.

Discover the Insights, Design the Value, and Drive the Future

As a leader for emerging markets, SDD’s mission is to discover insights as an infinite design inspiration provider, design value to create globally successful products and drive the future to build new growth opportunities.

Our Team

IM Product Design Team

We live up to the promise of creating desirable product solutions, offering core value and viable for execution at our production facilities. Our design approach & process is highly research driven, empathizing with the growing needs and expectations of our consumers.

IM UX Design Team

The UX team undertakes research and supports the main office with regional insight. Designers ranging in fields from GUI, UI, VI and research are involved from early stages of need-identification to feature conceptualization.

Graphic & Packaging Team

Starting as support for packaging line-up, the graphics team has advanced to creating localized packaging and visuals for all mobile models apart from flagship products. Also the team undertakes logo and graphic design for local products as well as visual design trend research.

Consumer Electronics Team

The team creates CMF and UX designs based on local insights. They collaborate with the main office and also with local partners to direct consumer centric innovations for local consumers and demands.

Our Work

Galaxy J2

Galaxy J2 is a smartphone for consumers in emerging markets with unique design and UX features. The ergonomically formed grip that wraps around the entire device acts as a placeholder for your thumb and other fingers, a Natural Grip Line. The Smart Glow emitting from the Ring Flash function is a form of establishing unique identity and self-expression especially for the youth of India. The lock screen and packaging especially reflect this glocal (Global + Local) sensibility, taking cues from the rich visual tradition of India.

S Bike Mode

S bike mode is a unique and easily adaptable app that gives priority to urgent calls while riding. Our aim was to change the habit of riders of talking on the phone while riding. Once activated only the urgent calls bypass through the auto-answering system filter. And to answer the call, the rider has to park his bike and come to a complete stop. The app was implemented in Latin America, the Middle East and South West Asia, following its success in India.

India localized Themes

We have created localized visual directions for an enhanced user experience. India specific artwork and thematic directions have been created as a part of the “Make in India” campaign, thus providing the user with a totally localized look & feel. The themes have been made available for both Android and Tizen platforms. These themes have been highly successful in the Samsung Theme Store with downloads having crossed the 75,000 mark.

Active Wash+

Active Wash+ system includes a dedicated sink, which provides a convenient and unique space to hand-wash delicate items and pre-wash heavily soiled clothes. The Magic Dispenser, specially designed to create a powerful water vortex, dissolves both liquid and powder detergent, spreading it evenly before a wash. It was the winner of iF and Good Design Awards for design excellence.

India’s 1 Door Wonder

The 1 Door refrigerator has a stylishly unique round-top design that has distinctive crown design and added extra space. It comes equipped with power cut resistant Coolwave cooling feature that keeps food chilled and frozen for 9 hours. Its ridged design also provides safe storage for bottles, a multi-utility door bin and FreshMax that provides extra space to store fruits and vegetables. It has a special divider to attach plastic bags and separate bottles, an auto close function and built-in deodorizer.

Dialogue Between Patient and Hospital

Better medical service for the masses, and for the doctors and nurses to be efficient and satisfied with their work is the goal of the Samsung In-Patient Solution. A collaboration with Noida Samsung Research Institute, the solution is implemented in the Global Hospital in Mumbai. The solution is receiving positive feedback not only as a return on profit model from hospital administration but from patient and staff who participated in the pilot test.

The Samsung Notebook 9 delivers the latest in Notebook technology in a sleek and light design. With advanced features including enhanced connectivity, premium display and an added layer of security, the Samsung Notebook 9 offers the performance and portability to go wherever you need to go.

Sleek and Light Design

• Impossibly Light: The Samsung Notebook 9 13.3-inch — at 1.8 pounds — is the lightest notebook on the market. It’s effortless to carry, and easy to travel with. It’s the perfect combination of performance and portability.
• Refined Design: The Samsung Notebook 9 13.3-inch and 15-inch feature an ultra-slim bezel and near edge-to-edge display sets a new design standard and gives you more screen to do what you need to do
• Versatile: The Samsung Notebook 9 display reclines 180°, making it simple to share presentations with co-workers, or pictures with your friends and family.
• Durable: With a sleek single shell structure, and Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) Rigidity technology, the Notebook 9 features added integrity, resiliency, and thermal and shock resistance.

Advanced Features for Strong Performance and Connectivity

• Powerful Performance: The Samsung Notebook 9 isn’t just a beautiful device, it also packs power and performance. It is equipped with the latest 7^th Generation Intel® Core i7/i5 Processors, as well as faster storage and memory.
• Connectivity Features: The Samsung Notebook 9 offers exclusive software solutions for peer-to-peer sharing with other devices including smartphones. With PC Message and PC Gallery, users can easily share files, messages and photos anytime, anywhere.

Fast Charging Battery

• Long-Lasting Battery: The Samsung Notebook 9 battery last for 7 hours on a single charge—more than enough for a day at the office, or even an international flight.
• Adaptive Fast Charge: Users can fully recharge the Samsung Notebook 9 in 80 minutes, or get 2.1 hours of power in just 20 minutes.
• USB Type-C: The latest USB Type-C port lets users charge the Samsung Notebook 9 through via a cell-phone charger, and also enables quick data transfer and connectivity to displays and other devices.

Improved Security with Built-in Fingerprint Sensor

• Security is always top-of-mind which is why the Samsung Notebook 9 includes a built-in fingerprint sensor as well as support for Windows Hello, which enables secure sign in with a single touch, so users can log into the Windows 10 device without typing in a password.

Immersive Experiences with Premium Display Technology

• Vibrant Full-HD Display: The Samsung Notebook 9 was created with a stunningly immersive full-HD display with bright, vivid and accurate colors. Featuring Samsung RealView Display, the Samsung Notebook 9 elevates the viewing experience to new heights with support for a high-level of brightness, true-to-life colors and a wide viewing angle. Also, with Outdoor Mode, instantly boost the clarity of the display with a quick shortcut command when working under direct sunlight.
• HDR Video: View content in high dynamic range (HDR) to experience more vibrant videos.

Samsung Notebook 9 15” EXT Product Specifications

OS	Windows 10 Home
PROCESSOR	Intel Core i7 7500U
DISPLAY	15.0-inch, 350nit, FHD (1,920X1,080), 178°, LR, sRGB 95% Delta E<2.5, Outdoor mode (500 nits), Video HDR
GRAPHICS	Dedicated; NVIDIA 940MX Graphics Card
STORAGE	PCIe NVMe,256GB SSD
MEMORY	DDR4 dual channel, 16GB (on board)
WIRELESS	802.11 ac 2X2
BLUETOOTH	Bluetooth 4.1
SOUND	1.5W X 2 SPEAKERS
INTEGRATED CAMERA	720p
MIC	Internal Dual Array Digital Mic
KEYBOARD	1.5mm stroke, backlit, curved keycap, fingerprint sensor
I/O PORTS	1 x USB-C Thunderbolt 3 [up to 40Gbps, 4K display out with optional adapter, Charging] + 2 x USB 3.0 + 1 USB 2.0
AC ADAPTER	65W adaptor
DIMENSIONS	13.70″ x 9.03″ x 0.61″
WEIGHT	2.73 lbs
BATTERY	66Wh
MATERIAL/COLOR	Light Titan
SOFTWARE	Wi-Fi Transfer, Simple Sharing, PC Message, PC Gallery, SideSync

* Samsung Notebook 9 15″ EXT is only available for purchase in US markets.

Samsung Notebook 9 (15-inch) Product Specifications

OS	WINDOWS 10 Home
PROCESSOR	7TH GEN INTEL® CORE i7
DISPLAY	15.0″, 350nit, FHD (1,920X1,080), 178°, LR, sRGB 95% Delta E<2.5, Outdoor mode (500 nits), Video HDR
GRAPHICS	SHARED
STORAGE	PCIe NVMe, up to 256GB SSD
MEMORY	DDR4 dual channel, up to 8GB (on board)
WIRELESS	802.11 ac 2X2
BLUETOOTH	Bluetooth 4.1
SOUND	1.5W X 2 SPEAKERS
INTEGRATED CAMERA	720p
MIC	Internal Dual Array Digital Mic
KEYBOARD	1.5mm stroke, backlit, curved keycap, finger print sensor
I/O PORTS	2XUSB 3.0, 1XUSB 2.0, 1XUSB-C, HDMI, MicroSD, HP/Mic
AC ADAPTER	45W small adaptor
DIMENSIONS	347.9 X 229.4 X 14.9mm
WEIGHT	2.17lbs
BATTERY	30Wh, Fast Charging, External Battery Charging
MATERIAL / COLOR	Light Titan
SOFTWARE	Wi-Fi Transfer, Simple Sharing, PC Message, PC Gallery, SideSync

Samsung Notebook 9 (13.3-inch) Product Specifications

OS	WINDOWS 10 Home
PROCESSOR	7TH GEN INTEL® CORE i5/i7
DISPLAY	13.3”, 350nit, FHD (1,920X1,080), 178°, LR, sRGB 95% Delta E<2.5, Outdoor mode (500 nits), Video HDR
GRAPHICS	SHARED
STORAGE	SATA3 SSD, up to 256GB SSD
MEMORY	DDR4 dual channel, up to 8GB for i3, up to 16GB for i7 (on board)
WIRELESS	802.11 ac 2X2
BLUETOOTH	Bluetooth 4.1
SOUND	1.5W X 2 SPEAKERS
INTEGRATED CAMERA	720p
MIC	Internal Dual Array Digital Mic
KEYBOARD	1.5mm stroke, backlit, curved keycap, finger print sensor
I/O PORTS	2XUSB 3.0, 1XUSB-C, HDMI, MicroSD, HP/Mic
AC ADAPTER	45W small adaptor
DIMENSIONS	309.4 X 208 X 13.9mm
WEIGHT	1.8lbs
BATTERY	30Wh, Fast Charging, External Battery Charging
MATERIAL / COLOR	Light Titan
SOFTWARE	Wi-Fi Transfer, Simple Sharing, PC Message, PC Gallery, SideSync

* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

** Portion of memory occupied by existing content.

*** Battery life is based on internal testing conducted by Samsung. Results may differ by usage pattern.

Source: US Newsroom

Healthy eatery ‘Bad Farmers’

Contemporary art gallery ‘Fifty Fifty’

Concept store ‘My Boon’

The ‘Boundary’ café and lounge

Bakery ‘OUR bakery’

Perfumery ‘GN Perfume Studio’

Jewelry shop ‘MIK’

Denim workshop ‘bespokedenim’

The ‘Project 108’ café and gallery

Fabric shop ‘kitty bunny pony’

The ‘Rusty Iron in Dumbo’ cafe

Café and event space ‘Orer’

The ‘teal table’ showroom

Home furnishings store ‘J’aime blanc’

Furniture store ‘House of Finn Juhl’

Original images of the exhibit’s various arrangements may be found at Samsung Newsroom’s official Flickr page, here.

Ancient Cultural Heritage Meets Cutting Edge Economics, Welcome to China

At the cusp of tradition and change, the entire world is focusing on the tenacity of this nation and how they will emerge. Not only the rapid economic growth but the unique regional and cultural characteristics of China are of great interest to the entire world. Here at the heart of the dragon, Samsung Design China (SDC) in Beijing and Shanghai seek the best in design performance as well as competing with other global design companies.

SDC Fuses China’s Unique Culture with a Cutting Edge Eye for Design

New market trends, cultural or regional policies, user feedback and recommendations as well as insights are all our agenda as we reach out to universities, research firms and design agencies for a collaborative effort to better understand China. Never with an outside-in perspective but as an insider on the ground who knows what and when things happen. Here at the SDC office, we’ve been tailoring smartphones, home appliance products, computers, wearable smart devices and IoT products to compliment this unique and bustling part of the world.

Bringing the Future Today through Our Products, Starting Successful Business Opportunities

The potential market value of China is still unmeasured. To succeed in such a climate, staying ahead of the trends of the market as well as design is a must. We strive to become a company that the people of China will grow to love.

SDC – Beijing Office

Product Strategy Team

As China is a very competitive market, keeping up with the latest trends and competition is a must. To do this, SDC works with local agencies on research projects looking for user insights. With these findings we plan our product strategy for the market.

Industrial Design Team

The Industrial Design team here at SDC works closely with the product strategy team and local R&D centers to get the most out of our smartphone products like the Galaxy C series. SDC is responsible for the designs of the Galaxy C5/C7, Galaxy C9 Pro and Galaxy J3 Pro.

UX Design Team

The UX Design team includes User Interface (UI) and Graphic User Interface (GUI). Based on the needs and behavior of the local user, we devise useful UI implementation while working closely with the local R&D center to better equip the Galaxy series products to the China market.

SDC – Shanghai Lab

Digital Appliance Design Team

The Digital Appliance (DA) Design team located in Shanghai branch is immersed in research for cultural and lifestyle trends. We look for meaningful insights that may lay the groundwork for new innovations and creative direction. We also seek to take those insights and apply them to our home appliance product design.

SDC WORK

Galaxy C Series

The Galaxy C series is the new smartphone tailored for the China market. Smartphones go far beyond from being a mere digital device to part of one’s identity. This is the reason why product differentiation and authenticity matters in today’s product design field. Samsung Electronics establishes Galaxy C series with a unique signature design geared with premium material.

Galaxy C5/C7 Product Design

SDC’s first complete smartphone design project including user research, product design, user interface design, graphic user interface design as well as packaging design. The C5/C7 targets the younger generation with the ultra slim metal uni-body design.

Galaxy C5/C7 GUI Theme Design

The Galaxy C5 / C7 GUI theme, encompassing wallpaper and icons, brings to the screen the latest contemporary trends. Targeting 20 somethings, we designed a colorful theme with four unique metal GUI themes to match the metal exterior colors of the Galaxy C5/C7. The goal is to bring out unlimited imagination and inspiration for the younger generation to harness their dreams.

Galaxy C9 Pro Product Design

The flagship model to really show the mettle of Samsung Electronics is the Galaxy C9 Pro. With the metal uni-body and MSA (Micro Slit Antenna) which does away with the thick antenna but instead incorporates three thin strips for a decidedly unique design. Also, the huge 6.0 inch AMOLED screen and dual speakers create an immersive viewing experience as well as an exciting game environment.

Galaxy C9 Pro GUI Theme Design

Galaxy C9 Pro GUI theme extends the previous Galaxy C5/C7 metal theme for an upgraded hardware design. By using the Mobius concept on the wallpaper, it not only conceptually unifies the design, but also attracts the younger generation with a modern yet soft feel.

Galaxy J3 Pro Product Design

Galaxy J3 Pro targets affordable price with a premium atmosphere. The authentic metal spin texture on the battery door emphasizes attention to detail while the side step treatments can help to give an overall slimmer feel with better grip.

Veyron GUI Theme Design

The Veyron GUI theme targets the Chinese premium users. The curves of the lines on the wallpaper hint at the smoothness of the phone in your hand. The metal details on the launcher icons are highly detailed. The reflections of highlight on the metal lines are not only conveying a high-end feel but also stands out as being different from others.

The President’s Design Award is Singapore’s highest honour accorded to designers and designs across all design disciplines with a total of 39 Designers of the Year and 99 Designs of the Year having been conferred the award since it launched in 2006.

The AddWash feature, from which the Samsung AddWash washing machine derives its name, features the world’s first distinctive access door on front load washing machines. It allows consumers to add any item during a wash cycle without opening the main door. According to the jury citation, this innovation is “a result of deep consumer insights, ease-of-use ergonomics and design for assembly and manufacturability”.

“This is a great testament to our Product Innovation team because it demonstrates the importance of smart design and how consumer insights can lead to innovative touches, to make consumers’ lives easier. They are now able to do their daily chores efficiently, and spend more time with their loved ones. We will continue to invest in understanding our consumers and creating products which enhance their daily lives,” said Irene Ng, Vice-President, Corporate Marketing, Samsung Electronics (Southeast Asia & Oceania).

Left to Right – Irene Ng (VP Corporate Marketing), Ken Ding (Head of Product Innovation), President Tony Tan, Yong Sung Jeon (CEO and President) and Robert Tomlin (Chairman, DesignSingapore).

Yong Sung Jeon, CEO and President, Samsung Southeast Asia with Ken Ding (Head of Product Innovation Team) at the display zone featuring the winning product design.

Display illustration highlighting the winning features of the Samsung AddWash washing machine.

AddWash feature recognized as one of the design of the year at President’s Design Award.

Samsung AddWash washing machine being displayed at the Istana, the official residence and office of the President of Singapore.

The winning feature on the Samsung AddWash adding a unique and functional edge to the design.

For the jury citation, please refer to Appendix A.

APPENDIX A

Jury Citation

AddWash is an innovative feature on a range of Samsung front load washing machines. It enables users to add articles mid-cycle via a secondary door within the main one, an advantage that until now was limited to top load washers.

Based on a seemingly simple insight gleaned from their customer research, the design team from Samsung Consumer Insight Group successfully exploited a common customer pain-point that has long been overlooked. The result is a product feature that has effectively engendered a new category in washing machines. This has the potential to sway buyers towards front load washers that have the added advantage of using less water while providing a superior wash quality. From a commercial perspective, the outcome of this design innovation will result in better margins for Samsung, proving the tried and tested adage that good design is good business.

This is an exemplary case where insights generated from the observation of Southeast Asian habits are used to create innovations that have global application and commercial relevance.

About the Design

The AddWash feature is the world’s first distinctive access door on front load washing machine that allows users to add any item during a wash cycle without opening the main door.

This innovation is a result of deep consumer insights (from both Southeast Asia and globally), ease-of-use ergonomics and design for assembly and manufacturability.

When it comes to laundry in Southeast Asia, there is a strong trend of interacting with the wash cycle, which could come in the form of adding detergent or inserting forgotten laundry into the load. Hand-washing and top loader washing machines are great at facilitating this interaction which builds trust in the washing process, allowing people to add their own special touch to their laundry. For example in Thailand, housewives like to add fabric conditioner at a specific time in the wash cycle to maximise the fragrance. In addition, some also like to add extra detergent or other cleaning agents during the wash cycle.

However, this interaction is not possible when it comes to front load washing machines as the door is locked once the cycle starts. The user cannot intervene with the process. On a global scale, users experience frustration with front loaders – once the cycle has started, it is impossible to add laundry to the machine if the user had forgotten to put them in. This frustration is a significant barrier to purchasing a front loader.

By having a second door which can be opened during the washing process, user can intervene in the process at any time to add fabric conditioner or extra cleaning agents, as well as forgotten items of laundry. The design includes a child feature, which prevents the drum from rotating whenever the door needs to be opened.

The AddWash feature addresses both the regional Southeast Asian desires of interacting with the process, and also the frustration experienced by users globally with front loaders. The concept also provides environmental benefits as it encourages the use of front loaders, which inherently consume less water and are more energy efficient. Despite being a Southeast Asian-driven insight, the AddWash is also highly relevant in other markets and was launched globally in 2016.

Jackson Square, San Francisco where architecture office and design agencies sit shoulder to shoulder. Among the crowd is the Samsung Design America (SDA).

SDA was started with the mind of creating innovation at Samsung Electronics ‘at just the right time with the right people’.

Creating the future with today’s reality

Here at SDA we oversee the entire gamut of the product development stage from end-to-end,  strategy, user experience, design, prototyping, and engineering to create a new product or even a new product line. Also, working with experts in a diverse range of fields to read and forecast the latest trends and create new business opportunities. One of the prime objectives of the SDA office is to open new opportunities for Samsung products. Bringing in exquisite hardware and software to service and lifestyle to create an ecosystem for new products to be introduced and thrive.

SDA focuses on ‘big changes’ with real impact

This is why we chose the location as San Francisco to be at the epicenter of innovation and change. The Bay Area is known for its culture of innovation. It’s a culture that embraces trial and error, that experiments and accepts failure. We want to tap into this culture to open new doors for tomorrow.

SDA TEAM

Product strategy

The product strategy team takes new categories and defines concepts, develops business, collaboration and marketing research & support.

Industrial design team

The design and development of new products within new categories are the role of the industrial design team. They also produce mockups of newly developed products and maintain new SDA product design specs.

UX team

The UX team handle early concept stages to final software versions of the user experience, prototyping and UI system architecture. The primary role of the team is establishing a guideline for the user journey as well as the final design.

SDA WORKS

Gear Fit

Gear Fit was SDA’s first wearable and Samsung’s first fitness device as well. It won the ‘Best Mobile Device’ award at Mobile World Congress in 2014, and its modular design, beautiful color display, and curved screen are still iconic today.  SDA design members pushed Samsung’s hardware expertise and had to balance information density in creating a “glanceable” experience.

Level Headphones Over

SDA created Samsung’s first effort in the premium headphone sector. The industrial design team built a sleek and minimalist design for comfort and an intuitive and simple touch experience on the side of the headphone for a truly user focused headphone set.

Galaxy View

Working closely with the Seoul office, the SDA office oversaw the entire project from original identification and incubation, through to manufacturing all the way through to the go-to-market process. The result was a new category in the entertainment market with using the Galaxy View.

Gear S

SDA worked closely with the Seoul office Product team on the final design, materials and straps. The product strategy team was involved in helping build the service partner ecosystem, explaining how partners could adapt their services to the new world of wearables and even going to New York Fashion Week to present the device with designers like Diesel and Swarovski.

Gear Fit2

The Gear Fit2 was a multi-department collaborative effort. The product strategy team worked with local sales and retail teams to develop the GearFit2, incorporating user and retail feedback into the design from it’s inception for music and sensor accuracy as a key features. As the project neared launch we helped support the local sales team with the positioning and go-to-market activities.

Gear Circle Headphones

Our designers wanted to be more fashion oriented with these headphones, designing a necklace that you would be comfortable leaving on and not have to worry about taking them out and untangling them.

Gear IconX

The SDA teams worked together to build Samsung’s first truly wireless buds, Gear IconX. Our design team did deep ergonomics testing to ensure that the buds would stay in and solved the difficult challenge of putting 4GB of memory in them so that you can load your MP3s directly to the headphone and leave your phone in the locker room at the gym.

The sound of an air conditioner, an oven turning on, the ring of a smartphone… all of these digital sounds also become a part of your daily routine and naturally a part of your memory. We here at Samsung Electronics also consider acoustic resonance as an important factor of the user experience, as such our products are imbued with a distinct sound.

Come join us on a familiar path where we focus on the sound of our products.

* This content is better experienced with earphones or speaker.

Samsung Brand Sound

The theme of Samsung Electronics’ products can be summed up as ‘Over the Horizon’ for mobile devices and ‘Beyond the Horizon’ for home appliances – looking toward the challenges of the future with passion and anticipation. Although the melody may sound different the nuances of both share a subtle similarity. Both are neutral and positive attitude while retaining a medium tempo with 4 to 6 melodies.

These two simple melodies carry a long way, especially when applied to our products. Let’s look at a few examples.

Over the Horizon Theme

Over the Horizon

Over the Horizon has been the sound for Samsung Electronic mobile devices since 2012 for a better future in our daily life. It’s used for the Default Ringtone, Message Tone, Advertisements, Music Videos and other various media. We’ve also collaborated with musicians to expand this melody in diverse ways.

Samsung Galaxy S7

As the smartphone is probably the most used and closely kept device ever developed, it is vital that even the smallest functions have a corresponding sound and synchronize with the UX design principles.

Default Ringtone

Default Ringtone

The Swedish band Dirty Loops remixed the Over the Horizon melody for the Galaxy S7 and is used as the default ringtone.

Lock/Unlock

Lock/Unlock

As this function is used most often it should be quick and simple, yet clearly distinguishable. A distinct metallic sound was chosen to convey the precision of the device.

Camera Shutter

Camera Shutter

To continue the identity of Samsung cameras into the smartphone, an actual analogue camera shutter was sampled and edited for a consistent sound across all devices, from analogue cameras, digital cameras and mobile devices.

Samsung Pay

Samsung Pay

The sound of plastic as it’s pulled from a money clip is the motif developed for the sound when you activate Samsung Pay. It’s meant to evoke the feel of paying with an actual credit card. In line with this, when you swipe through your cards on the app it mimics plastic hitting plastic for a familiar yet new experience.

IconX

As left and right components are completely divided and sound is provided in stereo, also the fact that there are no buttons or a screen to access, this device required a totally new approach in user experience: The Invisible Audio Menu.

Wear on Sound

Wear on Sound

As both right and left ear buds operate independently, each ear receives a small ping to signal activation.

Coupled Sound

Coupled Sound

A delayed ping is volleyed back and forth to signal that both ear buds are connected and in synch.

Volume Up/Down

Volume Up/Down

AUI(Auditory User Interface) distinguishes high and low volume for suitable control.

Invisible Audio Menu Guide

Invisible Audio Menu Guide

When you tap & hold, the menu is read out loud with an AUI sound that signals for you to let go to start that menu.

Beyond the Horizon

Beyond the Horizon

Beyond the Horizon has been our signature brand melody for home appliances since 2015. It represents positivity and unlimited possibilities in ascending melody.

Q9000, Q9500

The windless air conditioner echoes a wind chime when it starts up or is controlled for a clear, refreshing sound to compliment the cool air coming forth.

Power On/Off Sound

Power On/Off Sound

The Beyond the Horizon melody is differentiated when you turn on or off the air conditioner. Other details are the melody is precisely synched to the vents opening sequence.

Temperature Control Sound

Temperature Control Sound

This helps you to distinguish whether you’re setting the room temperature up or down.

Built-in Oven

For this appliance, we analyzed the different functions into two categories; power, error, timer functions that apply to the entire product range and specific functions that are unique to each individual product such as partition activation/ deactivation, cook done. By doing this, each product is connected by a unified sound but also is uniquely identified.

Power On Sound

Power On Sound

Even without high definition speakers, the Beyond the Horizon sounds simple and direct.

Buzzer & Speaker Sound

Buzzer & Speaker Sound

The buzzer key has been raised one octave and together with the SPK version can be heard and distinguishable in any environment.

Door Open Sound

Door Open Sound

The door open alarm sounds 2 minutes after the door is kept open. Rather than a high-pitch alarm a less harsh melody set (ti-mi-fa#) was chosen for a more considerate sound alarm.

Each of Us Have a Unique Voice

No two are the same. Likewise, a brand should have its own unique acoustics. The sonic experience with a brand is a vital asset and an intricate part of the total brand experience.

Here at Samsung Electronics, we take great care to ensure that the sound you hear from our products is clear, audible and consistent with the other elements of our products and services we provide to you. Even the most fleeting sound bites have been evaluated many time over to create a fun yet memorable brand experience.

Samsung Electronics, the leader in home entertainment for over 10 years, today announced that the Samsung SERIF TV has been selected by Oprah Winfrey and the editors of O, The Oprah Magazine as one of Oprah Winfrey’s Favorite Things for the 2016 holiday season.  A collaboration between Samsung and Parisian design duo Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the Samsung SERIF TV aesthetically and technologically pushes the boundaries of what’s expected from a television.

Oprah recognized the Samsung SERIF TV this year for its unique design that blends harmoniously in the home, either on top of a credenza or via attachable legs that transform the TV into a piece of furniture. With 4K UHD resolution, the Samsung SERIF TV offers the best picture quality available in a 40” TV*, making it just as beautiful to watch as it is to experience. Additionally, the SERIF TV features the exclusive Curtain Mode interface that veils content on the screen to give an abstract impression of what is happening in the background, shutting down content without turning off the TV itself. Even when Curtain Mode is active, viewers can still access services such as a clock, Bluetooth speakers, apps and their photo gallery.

“From top to bottom, Samsung partnered with the Bouroullec Brothers to reimagine not just how the TV looks but also how it functions to meet the needs of consumers who care just as deeply about design as they do about picture quality,” said Dave Das, Senior Vice President, Home Entertainment, Samsung Electronics America. “We are so honored to be recognized by Oprah and her team this holiday season for this unique approach to television design.”

Every holiday shopping season, Oprah and the editors of O, The Oprah Magazine compile a list of standout products released throughout the year. One of the most respected annual gift guides in the world, Oprah’s Favorite Things list gives consumers access to Oprah’s trusted opinion on the year’s best products as they shop for their loved ones.

“Whatever you’re binge-watching looks better on this truly elegant smart TV, which your guests just might mistake for modern art,” said Winfrey. “Whether on a counter or on its stand, this TV isn’t just a pretty face: It has apps, a full web browser, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and so much more.”

The Oprah’s Favorite Things list, including the Samsung SERIF TV, can be viewed online at Oprah.com and in the December issue of O, The Oprah Magazine, on newsstands November 8.

For more information, please visit Samsung.com/SERIFTV.

*Among Samsung 40″ TVs

Source: US Newsroom

As a simple instance, carrying your baby, picking him or her up again and again is strenuous work. A baby carrier is a necessity. A necessity yes, but not without it’s faults. For one, the shoulder straps and waist belt put needless pressure on your body. And second, just looks bad when you have to wear it outside.

Samsung’s C-Lab, an internal program that aims to foster innovation at the company have set their eyes on solving these two issues of early parenthood. The result is an infant support carrier that monitors baby’s health and is comfy for both parent and baby. Ladies and gentlemen and babies… meet Dr. Macaron.

Weight Distribution

While we can’t reduce the baby’s weight we can distribute the load away from just the certain part of your body. Dr. Macaron has a Convertible Hipseat System that can be adjusted with one hand. Raising the seat of the carrier divides the weight away from the shoulders to be shared with the waist so that mommy can concentrate on the precious cargo inside.

Iconic Design

Dr. Macaron is a minimal no-nonsense design baby support system. We discarded anything that stuck out or didn’t feel in place and hid buckles and other contraptions away from view. Unlike most baby carriers, we chose a light ivory color instead of the often seen usual dark drab for a clean pure feel that will go well with any outfit.

Total Infant Care Service

Dr. Macaron isn’t only a baby carrier. In fact, it is a smart care service for your baby with a very well designed carry support. Simply by putting the small macaron shaped sensor into the seat of the carrier Dr. Macaron monitors if the baby needs a diaper change. Also, the sensor will check your activities and let you know how long you’ve been on your feet and need a breather. With the app it’s easy to keep a day to day record of your cute lil button growing up without having to keep a pencil and notebook handy at all times, keep it all on your smart device!

Sensor Detail

The small macaron shaped sensor in the seat of the carrier sends data to the pre-installed app in realtime. This data is processed and presented to you so that you can keep track of the leaps and bounds your baby is making day to day.

Dr. Macaron tackles a major problem shared by many in carrying their babies without wearing themselves out. Like a real macaron, a sweet outer shell with an even sweeter filling inside. A delicacy to sweeten your time with your baby.

Questioning things we took for granted and trying to improve upon them. That is the underlying approach for Dr. Macaron. It ends with a warm hug utilizing design and technology. Here at the C-Lab in Samsung Electronics we’re looking for unique and different solutions to life’s many questions with the answer of making it better.

*This product is under development and not yet available for sale.

Exploring Collection: Gear S3 frontier and Gear S3 classic

Outdoors or in a board room, the Gear S3 frontier performs in any environment. Nevertheless, it looks and acts the way it should—as a workhorse that is equally elegant in a three piece as it is rugged in the great wilderness of nature.

The Gear S3 classic is aimed at stylish 20-30 somethings who value function and practicality. A hipper, younger design with no frills was the approach for this version of the device. Added to that is the diverse range of wristbands that let trendsetters express themselves in their own unique way.

Exploring Details: From Size and Materials to an Always On Display

Recently, consumers are seeing smartwatches not as smart devices but as multi-purpose timepieces. As such, refinement was the key concept for the design of the Gear S3. The company undertook an exhaustive study of timepieces, surveyed a wide range of users and attempted to define the size and form factor of a watch that makes it just that, a watch.

Stainless steel 316L, the most commonly used material for watches, was selected for the Gear S3. Adding to its durable surface are simple modification molding and tempering finishes that enable for a device that is not only sophisticated but sturdy and reliable.

The circular UX, first introduced in the Gear S2, was once again applied to the Gear S3, showcasing a new direction in wearable UX design.

Like a master watchmaker carefully placing the hour and minute hands in place, the watch face of the Samsung Gear S3 has been carefully set in place. The near microscopic details of a watch piece have been painstakingly recreated digitally in the Gear S3 with added function that can only be realized in a digital environment such as weather updates, schedule reminders and a heart rate monitor.

The new Samsung Gear S3 is not just a new smart device but a wearable one that complements your way of life. That’s why the Always On Display has been improved upon. With a newly structured low energy setting, the watch face is always on, with more vibrant color and detail, like its active second hand.

Going beyond the basic functions of a smart device by innovating your way of life, the Samsung Gear S3 begins your journey of Meaningful Innovation as a new vision in wearable technology.

Although best known for his sculptures, Paris-based Levy, is a technician, photographer, designer and filmmaker. Despite his diverse background, the artist’s collaboration with Samsung was his first experience designing for a smartwatch. The project wasn’t without its challenges, but it excited Levy nonetheless.

“Artwork represents freedom of the mind, vision, future… the ability to do things we’ve never done before; technology is what helps us realize that dream,” Levy noted in an interview ahead of the Gear S3 Launch Event. “So when this project came along, I thought it was a great opportunity to bridge artwork and technology.”

Levy believes that the Gear S3 is a device that goes beyond a watch. One that, thanks to the innovations of Samsung, lets users do more, like listen to music and track their location. But Levy desired to take the product to a new place by creating four unique watch faces and bands that stayed true to his design philosophy. As such, he aimed not to create just another graphic, but instead to produce something entirely new.

“I wanted to change the band and give it a different aesthetic to complement not only my work but also the remarkable features of the Gear S3,” Levy said.

The artist accomplished this by injecting into his designs what Levy refers to as “generative evolution”—an element that enables something to be new and unique every time one interacts with it.

Drawing on inspiration from four of the major artwork typologies he practices, he was able to convey in each design a sense of life experience. “Eclipse,” for example, was inspired by Levy’s “Iris Black Hole” paintings and exemplifies the depth of human beings, while “Vortex,” a take on the “Rock Growth” series illustrates the development each individual experiences. “Facets” embodies the essence of his “Rock” sculptures and questions the validity of perception.

Levy’s watch faces in particular distinctly incorporate generative evolution. “Fractal,” which was inspired by his light series of the same name, demonstrates the concept of an object that has no beginning or end. This is exemplified through animated effects that create a constantly changing depth, energy and speed to mimic the rhythm of our lives. Users can adjust the speed of which the figures move across the display based on how they want to encounter the effect. In this way, each user can experience Levy’s designs differently.

The Gear S3’s customizability, Levy explains, sets it apart from other devices. “This is the first time that this sort of product adapts to who we are,” he noted. “You can see it from across the room and know instantly that it’s a Gear S3.”

Being able to add his unique touch to the Gear S3, Levy explained, was one of the best things about collaborating with Samsung. “The artwork draws the attention to micronic details that make the fundamental differences in everyday life,” he said. “To give people the chance to play with that—I think it’s a revolution.”

Samsung Gear S3 is a product that takes after the heart of artisan watchmakers and their highly detailed craft while expanding further with the latest in digital technology. It is a watch that is cutting edge, yet traditional all the same. A device that was refined with the user in mind to not only feel right on the wrist, but also to add convenience to one’s daily life.

To create such a smartwatch experience, Samsung put a great deal of effort into making the Gear S3 as close to a real watch as possible, down to the tiniest details. The company sought the advice of some of the world’s greatest watchmakers, including Yvan Arpa, one of the most audacious and avant–garde watch creators of today. In doing so, the company was able to gather valuable insight into their skills and the age-old craft of assembling a classic timepiece.

Swiss watch designer, Yvan Arpa

“With every great iconic watch design, it’s all about three factors: proportion, tactile experience and choice,” Arpa noted. “These three things are what we focused on to create a smartwatch that looks and feels like a real watch.”

With Arpa’s help, Samsung was able to create a device that marries traditional professionalism and digital innovation. This rings true for both versions of the new smartwatch: the Gear S3 frontier, a rugged wearable that can withstand nature’s elements, and the Gear S3 classic, a luxurious digital timepiece.

Gear S3 frontier — A Smartwatch for Any Environment

The Gear S3 frontier was developed to fit into any environment, be it the wilderness or the boardroom. Its large bezel, hefty body and accentuated buttons convey both refinement and sturdiness. Small elevations around the face, and the screen’s slope and depression, for example, protect it from exterior shock.

Samsung also took care to ensure that each function of the new version could be easily accessed. Specially designed bezel knurlings and buttons make it easy to use, even when wearing ski gloves. Furthermore, in place of time markers, numerals were used to create a sportier aesthetic.

To resist the dust, mud and perspiration that often come along with outdoor activities, Samsung designers adopted a soft, lightweight strap that provides durability but also comfort.

Gear S3 classic—Enhanced Luxury

The Gear S3 classic boasts a more luxurious aesthetic, raising the bar in terms of detail and quality.

Taking a no-frills approach, Samsung designers paid great attention to the smallest of details, from the laser-marking techniques for the indices, to the watch crown to the minimalistic design of the in-body strap.

Many renditions, and numerous shapes and sizes were considered to achieve the perfect balance and proportion of a well-crafted watch. Samsung hid the stitches and selected more natural colors—olive green and navy blue—to make the device more gender neutral. Finally, the leather was tempered to look sophisticated yet reliable; the material is one that makes a statement without being ostentatious.

All-Around Refined Design and Craftsmanship

Refinement was a key concept for the designs of both versions of the Gear S3. Most prominent in its enhancements are the physical dimensions of the device itself—ones that were crafted to ensure that the product actually looked like a real watch.

After completing a survey of a wide range of users to whittle down the ideal proportions of a wristwatch, Samsung incorporated a larger watch face to better fit the wrists and preferences of users.

The Gear S3’s bezel interface was inspired by outdoor and dive watches. Adding a tactical experience to what is primarily a digital function, the new bezel has 24 steps that cover the spectrum of the Gear S3’s functions.

The rounded sharp edges of the case, the sunray brush finish on the bezel and the intricacies of the watch’s crown further demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to quality.

To better accommodate the circular face of the smartwatch, the interface was totally redesigned for the Gear S3. Added to this was the revision of the app sync engine to provide a more seamless integration of applications to the device.

The material of the device, a component that Arpa believes greatly contributes to the overall tactile experience, was also carefully considered. “In this specific case, I’m very proud to say we used 316L stainless steel, which is the same material used for the finest luxury watches in Switzerland,” he stated.

New materials, along with simple modification molding and tempering finishes, result in a design that is not only classic, but also reliable.

A Well-“Rounded” UX

The circular UX, which was well received by the masses when it was first introduced with the Gear S2, has undoubtedly become the distinguishing identity of the Gear series, redefining the user experience.

The new Gear S3 builds upon this foundation and takes advantage of its circular display and rotating bezel to provide advanced usability. Content on the Gear S3 scrolls around the periphery of the circular display while transitions between screens are smoother and more natural than before.

Also, the nearly microscopic details of an analog timepiece have been recreated and applied to the Gear S3’s watch face, along with added digital functions that offer unsurpassed convenience. Depth has been added to improve aesthetics, while widgets on both sides of the face connect seamlessly with the watch face itself. A wide variety of watch face options also enables ultimate personalization.

But the new Gear S3 isn’t just a smart device. It’s a wearable that complements a user’s lifestyle. After all, Arpa noted, “More important than any design or project is the human being that will interact with it.”

That’s why the device’s Always On Display has been improved upon. With a low energy setting, the smartwatch can now be on at all times, with more vibrancy and detail. Thanks to this new added function, a vast array of Always On Display designs are available so users can make their device truly their own.

The new Gear S3 is a device with a design that speaks to the user, and a watch that looks and fits as it’s supposed to. It’s a timepiece that merges the perfected craftsmanship of the past with Samsung’s meaningful innovation for a future of possibilities.

The design of the Gear S3 is a result of the collaborative efforts of Swiss watch designer Yvan Arpa and Samsung designers. (Pictured from left to right: Principal Designer Yongseok Bang, Designer Yvan Arpa, Vice President Jinsoo Kim and Senior Designer Tommy Choi)

One of the most defining characteristics of the Galaxy Note series is the analog relationship it establishes with its users. Furthermore, its signature S Pen enables them to make a physical connection with the device—an attribute that sets it apart from other smartphones.

When designing the Galaxy Note7, Samsung designers spent a great amount of time outside the  studio to examine how users interacted with and used their mobile devices on a daily basis.

Rather than using the traditional visually-led approach, they focused on the experience of interacting with the phone’s physical qualities. These efforts allowed them to create the Galaxy Note7, combining innovation and technology with a more user-focused approach.

As a result, the Galaxy Note7 is perfectly symmetrical, merging form and function to provide the comfort, convenience and grip that enable users to do more and get more out of their smartphone. Likewise, Samsung has refined the device’s UX to provide a seamless interaction between the user and the device.

New Curves, Carefully Refined Details

The Galaxy Note7 is the first in the Galaxy Note series to boast a dual-edge display—an addition that stays true to Samsung’s design heritage. To incorporate this elegant aesthetic, Samsung had to find a way to maintain a flat screen surface for writing, while also ensuring enough space for storing the S Pen.

For those reasons, the subtle curves like those on the Galaxy S smartphones wouldn’t suffice. Therefore, Samsung carried out the most advanced 3D thermoforming process ever attempted on a phone to create extremely steep curves with a tighter radius at the very outer edges of the glass so not a single millimeter of writing space would be wasted.

Samsung applied the same radius to the device’s edges on both the front and back of the Galaxy Note7, a different approach than the one used on the Galaxy Note5, which also featured a curved design. This resulted in a device that is perfectly symmetrical—from top to bottom, side to side, and front to back.

To complete the balance, the glass and metal parts of the phone were fused together to allow for a more seamless and even surface. In fact, there are no edges or unnecessary surface protrusions between the different materials. The camera protrusion was also greatly minimized, making the device even easier on the eyes and smoother to the touch. These changes provide a more natural feel in the hand.

An Enhanced Look and Feel

The dimensions of the Galaxy Note7 are also different than those of the previous model. It is now more compact in size with a narrow body, but boasts the same large 5.7-inch screen with a bezel less than half the size of the Galaxy Note5.

Despite the addition of the Galaxy Note7’s iris camera and IR LED sensor, the device’s slim upper bezel is maintained thanks to the new technology.

In addition, the Galaxy Note7’s touch sensor is directly printed on the display panel. The device is also lighter than its predecessor, in spite of its larger battery.

These factors, along with the smartphone’s new dual-edge display and symmetrical design, make for a much better grip. Never before has a Galaxy Note been so easy to hold and operate in one hand.

With a new color offering, the Galaxy Note7 also has a premium look that fits almost any style. Blue Coral, the new hue, follows this year’s color trends, which are less vivid and more tranquil, and is also in line with the phone’s design concept of balance.

Although Blue Coral is beautiful on its own, Samsung, for the first time, decided to create a separate color for the phone’s metallic frame. The resulting color combination is both stunning and calming.

The three existing variants—Black Onyx, Gold Platinum and Silver Titanium—are also available. As a bonus, interactive wallpapers that complement each color have been added.

Strong and Sturdy

Despite its beautiful aesthetic, thanks to its Aluminum 7000 Series metal, the Galaxy Note7 is 1.3 times stronger and 1.2 times more scratch resistant than the metal used on the Galaxy S7.

Also integrated into the design is Corning® Gorilla® Glass5, which has an extremely high resistance to scratches and damages. This new glass is designed to provide further protection against breakage from everyday drops. So much so that in rigorous lab tests, it survived drops onto rough, unforgiving surfaces up to four times better than competitive glass designs.

As the first Note model to be IP68 certified, the entire phone (including the S Pen) is water and dust resistant. As a result, the Galaxy Note7 is now further protected from spills, and can be used in wet environments—even underwater.*

Pure and Simple

Samsung made subtle yet impactful enhancements to the user interface of the Galaxy Note7 to create a more natural, frictionless user experience.

First, the colors, shapes and overall design of the graphical user interface were simplified for a more orderly aesthetic, while the focus was shifted to function, information and content. To enhance consistency, Samsung made the icons uniformly rounded, while simultaneously softening their colors.

The most noticeable changes to the UX, however, are in the Settings and Quick Panel menus, which consist of much simpler graphical interfaces. Here, the menu trees and categories have been simplified* so that tasks can be completed in less steps, with fewer taps.

Finally, the number of Task edge features has increased. Now, users can do even more, such as record an exercise in S Health, create a drawing or view unread emails from the edge of their device.

Thanks to its refined design and outstanding durability, the comfort and convenience of the Galaxy Note7 are unsurpassed. Furthermore, its streamlined and intuitive UX provides the seamless experience that users have come to expect. Pushing the boundaries of design, the Galaxy Note7 features true craftsmanship and industry-leading innovation.

For more product information, please visit www.samsung.com/galaxy

*Dust and water resistance based on IP68 rating, which tests submersion up to 5 feet for up to 30 minutes.

**All functionality features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Once the public has a widely held opinion, it doesn’t change easily. This is especially true for celebrities. Once pigeonholed, a famous person can find it very tough to change preconceived notions or be evaluated by an open mind, even if the perception doesn’t really reflect what that person really likes to do or what they are actually like.

Seonghyeon Baek is a rapper better known as “Bbaek Ga” in Korea, famous for being part of the K-pop trio Koyote. Tattooed on his right arm is the text “1 2 3 Cheese,” along with the image of a person taking a picture. That’s because Seonghyeon is also a professional photographer, who has been taking pictures for the past 10 years under the name “by100.” He was the first Asian photographer to be chosen by Leica, the German camera company, who acknowledged his years of excellent work.

Even so, Seonghyeon says that he is still very cautious about presenting himself as a photographer in public, not wanting his photography to be overshadowed by the glamour of his life as a pop idol. But what does “Photographer by100” mean to Seonghyeon, and how is it different from his other life as a rapper?

Boyhood Friend: His Camera

Seonghyeon’s family was not well-off when he was little. When his friends went to ride their bikes or played with BB-guns, he just stayed behind and played by himself because his family couldn’t afford those toys for him.

But there was one thing that made Seonghyeon the center of attention – the camera. At home, he came across a camera, and it wasn’t long before it became his unofficial job to take class pictures on field trips or excursions. Everyone, including teachers and friends, loved the pictures that he took, and his photographs often were hung up on the board at the back of the classroom.

Seonghyeon Baek when he was in high school, around the time he started to study photography.

Seonghyeon planned on going to college to major in photography, but delayed his studies to save up money for tuition. Around that time, he auditioned for a dance group, thanks to the encouragement of his friend Jihoon Jeong (better known as Rain, one of the most successful performers in K-pop), and made the cut. Before he knew it, Seonghyeon was in the middle of a demanding career as a pop idol, but photography always held a special place in his heart. In fact, one of the first things he bought with his singing money was a new camera.

Identity Revealed

His chance to return to photography came by happenstance. In 2006, he posted some photos to his personal blog, which then went viral. Soon, a new name was born: “by100.” The fashion magazine Vogue reached out to him, wanting to publish his pictures. The editor-in-chief at that time even offered him a position as a photographer there, not knowing that by100 was also Bbaek Ga of the dance group Koyote.

Just like that, Seonghyeon’s life as the photographer by100 began. He built his career doing photography for many fashion magazines in Korea, including Elle, Cosmopolitan, and Arena.’

For years, he was careful to keep by100 and Bbaek Ga quietly separate, wanting his work to be viewed without preconceived ideas. “There’s nothing you can do about people having preconceived notions about me because a lot of people know me,” he said. “But as far as photography goes, I want to be fully acknowledged for it as myself, not as a singer”.

Bresson and a 35mm Camera

Seonghyeon’s favorite photographer is the French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson. Capturing the right composition of space at the right moment, Cartier-Bresson’s work has had a tremendous influence on contemporary photo journalism. In his first year at university in 1997, Seonghyeon became enamored of Cartier-Bresson’s works after seeing them in a small gallery in Insa-dong, Seoul. “The dynamic structure in his photos and the ability to capture just the right moment were really amazing. He patiently observes his subjects, and then presses the shutter to capture the critical moment. He reminds me of a hunter,” Seonghyeon said.

Recently, Seonghyeon has been focusing on nature photography. He fills his bag with fresh film rolls, and wanders around until he finds scenes he wants to capture. His photos make you feel as though you have entered a new world. Sometimes dreamlike, and other times sharp and piercing, his works reveal his unique perspective.

Recently, Seonghyeon has been quite interested in photographing nature. These are some works by by100 that reveal his unique characteristics and emotions.

When asked what kind of work he would like to produce in the future, he says he wants to produce photos that can “move people’s emotions.” “I would like to find ways to communicate with the public without being restricted to formulae and technique,” he explains.

“I am Lucky to be Loved for Doing what I Love”

Seonghyeon likes to take his time when selecting a product that he is going to use. Once he makes his decision, he does not change easily. This is the reason why he insists on using a 35mm film camera in this era of digital cameras – he is used to the way the camera fits in his hands. He loves how they feel just like his first camera. The fact that one roll of film barely holds 30 picture does not bother him at all. For Seonghyeon, it actually feels more natural.

 “I am moving soon. In the new place, the Serif TV will sit between my favorite chair and speaker.”

Similarly, Seonghyeon chose Serif TV because he thought it was the kind of product that he could use for a long time. “I thought [Serif TV] was unlike anything I had ever seen. Normally you replace a product after few years, but Serif TV’s design has been perfected to such a high level that you will want to keep it until it breaks,” said Seonghyeon.

As he is moving into a new place soon, he has already figured out where he will place his new Serif TV. “I don’t watch TV that often, but I do keep up with some programs I like. Once I move, I would like to place the TV between my favorite chair and the speaker to watch those programs I enjoy.”

 “So far I have been lucky enough to be loved for doing something I love. I do not know with certainty what I will be doing in the future, but I hope I will continue receiving support from many people.”

Seonghyeon’s interests extend beyond being a singer and photographer. He is also the owner of a cactus shop – the popular Cycle de l’Eau – and an essay writer. His interest in cactuses developed when he was fighting a brain tumor in 2009. “While all the other flowers in my hospital ward withered, only the cactus survived. I was very touched by its strength,” he explained.

Entering Cycle de l’Eau, what grabs your attention is the cactus vases. Empty cans, plaster casts, drawers – all sorts of unusual objects have been transformed into vases. The shop actually started with Seonghyeon casually planting cactuses in empty cans to give to his friends as gifts. Even now, he sometimes plants a cactus for customers who bring their own recycled vases.

Seonghyeon’s journey has not finished yet. Although he worked hard throughout his life, he is always grateful for the love he received while doing what he loves. “As I look back on my life, I was privileged enough to be able to do a variety of things that I love. Fortunately, I also received good responses for what I did. I do not know with certainty what I will be doing in the future, but I hope I will continue to receive support from many people,” he said. Like the old 35mm film camera that has been so important to him, may his future music, photos, and other activities also receive long-lasting love from the public.

* The content of this post are based on a sponsorship from Samsung Electronics.

Users discover Samsung through products, the brand platform and culture surrounding the brand. At the center of this discovery is the SamsungOne Font, the building blocks of the universal Samsung experience. Receiving calls with your smartphone, watching your favorite shows on your TV, doing household chores with other appliances as well as the packaging and promotional campaigns seen in various media all converge on one Samsung voice. This signifies the singular and unified experience or world promised by Samsung Electronics.

The SamsungOne Font Connects:

People

Samsung speaks to billions of people around the world. SamsungOne is the core tool that helps us to create a universal Samsung experience.

Product & Platform & Service Experience

Samsung’s products range from mobile phone to TV, from laptop to microwave, and from oven to tablet. These communicate on multiple platforms including print, screen, form and environment. SamsungOne helps connect all of these as one experience.

Visual Language

SamsungOne sits at the heart of Samsung’s new visual language DNA, and provides a typographic foundation for the future.

The SamsungOne DNA Incorporates Specific Key Values:

Reliable & Accessible

Solid, reassuring and legible, with a consistent, friendly and warm visual tone.

Contemporary & Innovative

Modern, sophisticated typographic forms capture Samsung’s advanced design thinking.

Human & Enduring

Fluid and open, hand-made but structured, non-decorative and designed within a solid system.

Integrated & Expert

Built-in expertise and know-how ensures all products, experiences and people are connected.

SamsungOne is Designed Using Five Core Typographic Principles and Characteristics:

Humanist

SamsungOne mixes a simple, single-width stroke with more calligraphic details.

A squared curve is combined with angled terminal ends to create a font which is very human, flowing and open.

Distinctive

Dynamic angles that come from how an arc joins a line create a consistent design personality.

Prominent dots, distinctive diacritics and the tail on l add legibility as well we provide some of the distinctive design DNA for SamsungOne.

Universal

Like a global Family, SamsungOne is uniquely localized while speaking some of the same typeface DNA.

Expert

A crafted hands-on approach to type design and detail where small adjustments to height plus descenders and ascenders ensure balanced forms.

A balanced and proportional set of characters aids consistency.

Legible/Scalable

Letterforms are specifically designed to work functionally at small sizes, and dynamically at large sizes.

Characters are open and spacious aiding readability.

Specific details are added to ensure legibility at text sizes.

In order for information to be displayed efficiently on every platform, in every environment, Samsung have developed a large range of weights, and this range of weights enables expressive design and contrast for emphasis.

The untold story behind the SamsungOne Font, as well as an interview with world renown typographer Neville Brody, can be found in following video.

But there’s one design studio that is famous for having books piled high, unfinished sketches everywhere, and magazines scattered all about. On the second floor, there is a popular café and store. The site is called Atelier & Project, and it is the headquarters for the art directors (and siblings) Jieun Kim and Chanseok Kim, who manage a space packed with design and cultural elements. And in the middle of the inventive, colorful chaos, you’ll find a Serif TV.

Designers Introduce Their Studio

Atelier & Project opened in Seoul in 2006. This “open studio café,” where several designers in different fields work, caused a sensation from the start. Many café/studios have followed since then, but Atelier & Project was the first, and after 10 years, it has become a cultural landmark for many.

It was not easy for Jieun and Chanseok to open Atelier & Project, a cultural complex that combines a café, flower shop, and general design/decoration store. Running a business meant less time for their design work, plus plenty of distractions from overly curious visitors. Nevertheless, they pressed ahead, inspired by the thought of inspiring people and creating a community for those interested in design.

“We wanted to create a space where people could feel warmth and energy,” said Chanseok.

Because of their shop, the two designers sometimes offer design consulting for rookie designers who are just out of school. “I was lucky to receive a lot of help from many mentors while I was in school. That’s how I learned what I needed to do for what I am doing now”, said Jieun. “As a designer, I wanted to help others in the same way, and that’s why I decided to open Atelier & Project.”

Chanseok (left) is responsible for operations at Atelier & Project while Jieun is in charge of planning.

Of course, running the studio isn’t just about giving to others. Being able to encounter a wide variety of ideas and designs, as well as people to share their ideas and talk with, helps both Kim siblings, too. Both Jieun and Chanseok say making connections with others is their biggest reward.

Creating a Space for Sincerity

Many people may not be familiar with what art directors do. There are different types of art directors, but in the broadest sense the job could be defined as “a person who creates stories, and organizes a space based on the story.” Jieun and Chanseok fill spaces in a way that can best serve their particular purposes, and sometime they consult clients further on how they might place certain graphics or display commercial products in the space. Their work is much more than just improving how a space looks, but is at its core about producing images associated with a particular brand.

They have a diverse range of clientele, including a luxury foreign garment brand, an eyewear shop, and a restaurant. Their most recent project was with Holics, a popular eyewear shop located not far from their studio. “They successfully emphasized the unique atmosphere of Holics with a nice blend of vintage furniture and a variety of décor,” said one visitor.

“I believe sincerity is the most important thing. No matter how good the conditions are, there can never be a good result if your heart is not in it.”

When asked about their secret to realizing their full abilities as art directors, they both responded with “sincerity.” They both said they have long believed that good outcomes can only happen when a person’s work is based on love for the space or the product. Sometimes they have even declined projects when the client did not show enough sincerity.

“If a space is owned by someone who does not have real affection toward it, there is a good chance that the project will fail no matter how good our advice might be. On the other hand, if you work with someone who truly cherishes the place, our work becomes much more interesting and the whole process goes a lot smoother as well,” explains Chanseok.

This is also the reason why they always invest enough time to understand the product or the space that they are going to work with. They believe that people can create outcomes that satisfy everyone only when they really love what they are working on. This idea resonates deeply with their core philosophy as art directors for their studio space.

Feeling ‘Warmth’ from a TV

Atelier & Project is a design studio and a café, but it is also used as a showroom that allows clients to feel that atmosphere of the space. For this reason, the Kims have paid attention to the smallest details of the space. The central concept of the space is “feelings,” designed to be a source of joy, inspiration, and sometimes even warmth.

“What we liked about it most was the sentiment, of course. There are no sharp edges anywhere on it. It is a TV that has a warm feeling to it, lifting the spirits of people around it.”

Jieun and Chanseok decided to place a Serif TV in Atelier & Project after they realized it could actually exist in harmony with their philosophy about space. “When I first saw Serif TV at the Seoul Design Fair in the spring, I thought the person who designed it must be a warm person to have created such a product,” says Jieun. “Serif TV has a sophisticated look, yet it has a warm feeling to it.”

One thing that particularly impressed them about Serif TV was its unique design, solid like a piece of furniture. They felt that, because Serif TV lacks harsh edges, it had a soft look that perfectly matched with the image of Atelier & Project, where a premium is placed on warmth. Both Kims use Serif TV for quiet relaxation and as a presentation display during client meetings.

Jieun and Chanseok say they want Atelier & Project to be the kind of space that makes a positive influence on people by spreading positive energy and emotions through design. With Serif TV, we hope to help them achieve their goals.

* The content of this post are based on a sponsorship from Samsung Electronics.

Over the summer, we will meet a range of people who share a love for one product in particular: Serif TV. Serif TV is Samsung Electronics’ radically redesigned television that puts an amazing screen into a beautiful physical package, shaped like a capital “I”. For the first story in our People Who Love Serif TV series, we meet two architects who are also a married couple, Jeunghye Park and Kyuho Choi.

Architects Jeunghye Park and Kyuho Choi

A house located high on a quiet mountain, like a monastic village: Skete

After spending a while walking up a mountain road, just outside the Korean countryside village of Yangpeong, we discovered a rather uncanny looking house. In a region known for its fresh, clean air, this building beautifully and effortlessly blends into its natural surroundings. Named “Skete,” it is a house that the England-based architects Jeunghye Park and Kyuho Choi recently built for Choi’s parents.

A “Skete” Refers to a Monastic Community where Monks from the Greek Orthodox Church Reside

The house reflects a wish from Kyuho’s father, who wanted it to be a space of quiet meditation and communication. With a clear, open view, and fresh mountainous air, this beautiful house, in peaceful harmony with its natural surroundings, creates a feeling of serenity just by looking at it. From its location to the selection of materials used, every corner of the house shows the efforts that this young couple poured into making it a comfortable space for Kyuho’s parents.

The precondition for making a good house is ‘harmony’

Skete is largely divided into three spaces.

The living room is the first thing you encounter as you enter the house, a space for friendship and communication, while the half-open study is intended for personal projects like writing and photo editing. The bedroom located upstairs is isolated from the other spaces to provide privacy and relaxation.

As reflected in the composition of the house, where activity and relaxation are adequately balanced, the couple considered “balance” the most important theme when they designed the house. Kyuho says, “Since the shape and location of a house are artificial, the surrounding environment affects them very much. We made a lot of effort to design a house that naturally blends into the natural environment while being beautiful and comfortable.”

All houses age with time.

The couple chose copper cladding for the outer walls of the house so they could see how the house ages over time. To make copper panels whose texture and color look different depending on the angles of light and the seasons of the year, they tried out a number of different plates, changing them before finally deciding on the right type. It was the kind of thoroughness that truly shows the couple’s “architectural approach” to creating a building that fosters balance in the lives of its dwellers and in its relation to the surrounding environment.

The Reason Why They Insist on the Perfect Harmony

The couple firmly believe that finding the right design was vital, especially considering how buildings usually stand for several decades. Kyuho says, “Unless it is a disposable building, things cannot be changed easily once they are done. Since the overall harmony can be broken by even one element being out of the balance, we usually take as much time as we can to consider every aspect thoroughly.”

That same approach applied to the interior of Skete. The couple paid close attention to every detail, carefully constructing the overall atmosphere. They said they gave long, thorough consideration to all elements, including the electric appliances, furniture and gadgets, and where to place each of them.

They collected the interior elements from around Europe, including lighting fixtures that matched the copper panels of the walls, a small built-in dishwasher that was just the right size for the compact kitchen, and faucets that went well with the overall atmosphere inside the house. One item that the couple spent a lot of time looking for was the TV. They had a difficult time finding the right TV, one that blended nicely into the home environment that they had so delicately arranged, and at one point actually gave up on placing a TV in the living room.

Then one day, they came across Serif TV on the internet, and thought, “This is it.” It was a product that naturally blends into the space, just like the way Skete nicely blends into the vast nature that surrounds it. Kyuho remembers, “It was a product that had an airy feeling to it like it was floating in the air. I loved how the design melted into the space so that it could be appreciated as part of the natural flow, rather than giving the impression that it was blocking the space.”

The stairway going down to the ground floor is reminiscent of a small corridor in the bell tower in a monastery

In the small study behind the kitchen, Kyuho’s parents can write or watch TV while enjoying the view of the opposite side of the house.

“Our dream is to construct a building that will be loved for a long time”

Jeunghye and Kyuho manage the architecture firm QJ Architecture in London. Like how the name of their company derives from their names – “Q” from the “Kyu” in Kyuho, and “J” from Jeunghye – they rely on each other and support each other as co-workers and a family.

“Sometimes I wonder if others can see that we are doing what is the best for our lives. When those moments come, I ask my wife for a lot of advice. We are honest with each other and are very comfortable around each other, so her advice helps me very much,” Kyuho says.

The two met in university in 2002, at a class they were both taking. Jeunghye was preparing to go to England to study, and Kyuho, who was attending graduate school in Korea at the time, could not bear the thought of being apart from Jeunghye. So he left graduate school, married Jeunghye, and traveled with her to England. They say their life in England felt different and awkward at first, but now they are established architects there. They specialize in building restoration, applying advanced architectural techniques to old and dilapidated buildings to give them new life.

The couple says they want to build buildings that can be loved for a long time. They hope their projects will not only be suitable for the current generation but also be passed on to more generations to come, continuing to be developed and reinterpreted. We hope to see more of Kyuho and Jeunghye’s spectacular works like Skete, beautifully and harmoniously combining nature and architecture.

* The content of this post are based on a sponsorship from Samsung Electronics.

Samsung Electronics America, the leader in home entertainment for over 10 years, today announced that the Samsung SERIF TV is coming to the U.S. this summer. A true collaboration with acclaimed Parisian design duo Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the Samsung SERIF TV redefines the television experience. It will be available starting in August at high-end design-centric retailers including Vitra, Bo Concept NY and Ligne Roset stores in major markets. Today, it is available for presale through Samsung.com and the MoMA Design Store.

The partnership marks the first time that Samsung has aligned with a designer to not only re-envision how the TV looks but also how it functions. From top to bottom, inside and out, the Bouroullec Brothers re-imagined every aspect, from its minimal yet solid exterior form to its refined user interface and even its simplified remote control. The Samsung SERIF TV is just as beautiful to watch as it is to experience, with the best picture quality available in a 40” TV*.

“Stunning picture quality and crisp sound clarity are what consumers expect from Samsung. However, our research also tells us that there is a subset of consumers, largely underserved by the TV industry thus far, who care just as deeply about design and how their TV complements the aesthetics of their home environment,” said Dave Das, Senior Vice President, Home Entertainment, Samsung Electronics America. “The Bouroullec Brothers share and embrace our vision of merging design and technology and we are pleased to introduce the SERIF TV to the U.S. market via a strategic group of retail partners in the design and furnishings world.”

Drawing inspiration from the simple elegance of typography, the Samsung SERIF TV forms a distinct capital “I” shape in profile, its slim body broadening to form a flat surface like a shelf at the top. This form enables it to be displayed seamlessly in the home, either on top of a credenza or via attachable legs that transform the Samsung SERIF TV into a piece of furniture. By design, the Samsung SERIF TV blends harmoniously with its surroundings, whether in a den or in a bedroom, an urban oasis or a suburban retreat.

Together with Samsung, the Bouroullec Brothers approached the design of the SERIF TV user interface not only from a practical perspective by developing a bespoke Smart TV menu that is simple and accessible but also delivered a unique and interactive visual display experience unlike any other. They created an exclusive Curtain Mode interface that veils content on the screen to give an abstract impression of what is happening in the background, shutting down content without turning off the TV itself. Even when Curtain Mode is active, viewers can still access services such as a clock, Bluetooth speakers, apps and their photo gallery.

“From the onset of designing the Samsung SERIF TV, we aimed to craft a modest and accessible object that fused our furniture design expertise with technology,” said Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Samsung and bring the SERIF TV to U.S. consumers.”

The Samsung SERIF TV includes all of the features that consumers desire from a Samsung television: a 4K UHD resolution which provides four times the resolution of full HD TVs and HDR Premium technology to enhance the picture’s color and brightness while creating a more natural, realistic image. As a Smart TV, it also includes a quad-core processor for a fluid browsing experience and seamless switching between live TV, apps and streaming content.

The 40” Samsung SERIF TV (UN40LS001AFXZA/UN40LS001CFXZA) will be available starting in August 2016 for an MSRP of $1,499. It is offered in white across all retail partners and in blue, exclusively through the MOMA Design Store and on Samsung.com. For more, visit Samsung.com.

*Among Samsung 40” TVs.

Source: Samsung Newsroom US

The opening line of Banana Yoshimoto’s emotional novel Kitchen says it best: “The place I like best in this world is the kitchen.” Indeed, the average family visits the kitchen some 40 times a day, so it’s no exaggeration that the kitchen is the hub of the family.

As the largest digital appliance in any home—and one that is turned on 24/7—the refrigerator is hard to ignore. It’s central to our lives. It keeps our food fresh, and it’s a hub for families, who often use it to post things like daily reminders, children’s artwork and family photos. That was the thinking behind Samsung’s new Family Hub refrigerator. Our designers were looking for something completely different. They wanted to give our refrigerator a whole new face and enhance the connection between families, their food, and each other.

That’s how the Family Hub’s Design Team came up with the idea of attaching a 21.5-inch interactive touchscreen directly onto the door. But that was the easy part. They then had to figure out what the interface should look like, how to implement it, and how it would work with all our devices. Before turning a great idea into action, the team engaged in extensive research and consumer observation to come up with the most ergonomic options. Through these studies, four major consumer insights were realized.

4 major insights:

1. Communication with other devices must be easy
2. Interactive touchscreen has to be intuitive
3. Screen must have “glanceability”
4. Interface has to be easy for all ages

With these valuable insights in mind, the team worked to create a refrigerator that would form three specific connections: between the consumer and their food regardless of location, between recipes and enthusiastic chefs at home, and, most of all, between families with each other.

1. Connecting In and Out

Scenario: Grocery Shopping
I’ve written this long list of things I need, but I still can’t remember if I need eggs.

Three internal cameras take a picture inside the refrigerator every time the doors close. You can use your smartphone to access the photos anytime, anywhere. With the View Inside feature, you don’t have to worry about doubling up on groceries. You can even keep track of expiration dates to conveniently manage your food. The touch and drag feature and the memo feature that lets you leave notes next to the food items are highly intuitive and easy to understand. And if you are running out of something, you can add that food items to the My Shopping List.

2. Connecting Recipes and Chefs at Home

Scenario: House warming party
I really want to show off my cooking skills with something different, but I never have enough time.

Club des Chefs contains recipes from world-renowned chefs and restaurants. In addition to assisting consumers in finding recipes, Family Hub also works as a platform that connects families to their most commonly used food services. When necessary, it can read the recipes aloud with Text to Speech (TTS) and can understand verbal instructions such as next or previous, so consumers don’t have to flip through their smartphones or physically touch the Family Hub screen when they’re elbow deep in pancake batter. Recipes are listed in order of difficulty and can be selected by inputting the ingredients available in the refrigerator. Once you select a recipe, a link allows you to directly purchase the ingredients you don’t currently have. Family Hub will soon connect to a variety of shopping portals: Emart in Korea and Groceries, developed by Samsung and Mastercard, in the United States.

3. Connecting Families

Scenario: No one is home at the same time anymore
I really want to spend more time with my family. But when I’m heading to work, my son is coming home. And my wife works at completely different hours.

Family Hub’s digital family bulletin board brings families together with seamless communication. Family Hub can even help families get on the same page. They can share notes with a digital app called Sticki, and put photos directly onto Family Hub’s interactive touchscreen so conversations can be even more meaningful. It’s just like an old fashioned bulletin board, except so much better. You can see your Sticki board, and even change it, from wherever you are via a mobile device. Now the kitchen really is a hub.

Not Just a Fridge

Family Hub doesn’t just transform the kitchen, it can re-create traditional family dynamics. The touchscreen’s UX design improves consumers’ lives by connecting them to their refrigerators from outside, to thousands of recipes and recommendations from famous chefs, and to their families. In the age of the Internet of Things (IoT), Family Hub is the centerpiece of any Smart Home.

To see the original article http://design.samsung.com/global/contents/family_hub/.

To find out more about the Family Hub Refrigerator,

please visit http://www.samsung.com/us/explore/family-hub-refrigerator/

Designers and mechanical R&D engineers at the Mobile Communications Business explain how the design of the Gear Fit2 originated, and how it was realized.

Q. What is the design concept of the Gear Fit2?

Jeff Jones: The original Gear Fit, with its thin, sleek look, was designed as a sports band. Then, with the Gear S2, we learned how to create a more premium wearable fit for everyday life.

We took the knowledge that we gained during these development processes and utilized it to create the product design of the Gear Fit2, merging the rectangular screen of the Gear Fit with the materials and design characteristics of the Gear S2. The final concept aimed to make the Gear Fit2 a device that is at once sporty and luxurious, and to fit naturally into Samsung’s wearable portfolio.

Q. What were the defining moments of the design process of the Gear Fit2?

Howard Nuk: There were many areas of focus during the design process because there were so many factors to consider.

First, we wanted the device to fit just about everyone, so we focused on the differences in people’s wrists, such as size variations, as well as their comfort level and desired point of contact when wearing something. As such, we spent a considerable amount of time determining the optimal curvature and size for the device.

We also wanted it to work with a vertical based UX. And we wanted to provide two side-by-side touch zones for usability. So we experimented with many different screen sizes and ratios until we found the ideal combination to meet our requirements. For example, we employed a 1:2 display aspect ratio on the Gear Fit2 so that its music player can display the skip forward and backward buttons in a horizontal line.

Q. Tell us a bit about how you selected the color, materials and finish (CMF) of the Gear Fit2.

Seounghyun Son: We selected colors—black, pink and blue—that are more “lifestyle” (as opposed to high-tech) so that the device could be worn in both fitness environments and everyday life. Overall, the colors are more subtle than bright, thus increasing the likelihood that someone would wear it all day. Additionally, we wanted to increase the appeal of the band by making it softer than the original Gear Fit and by using a 3-dimensional pattern rather than the 2-dimensional pattern of the Gear Fit.

Q. What are the main differences between the Gear Fit2 and the previous model in terms of mechanical features?

Hyunjun Kim: The Gear Fit2 differentiates itself with a premium, more refined design. We accomplished this by applying aluminum materials rather than plastic ones. To avoid discomfort, we worked hard to make it lightweight. Needless to say, applying metal to a wearable was no easy feat, even though Samsung has been incorporating it into its products, including its smartphone models, since last year.

We also included an improved clasp that uses a secure loop to prevent the device from falling off, and created both large and small variants to ensure that it will fit a wide variety of wrist sizes.

Youjung Song: As a sports band, waterproofness is one of the most fundamental features of the Gear Fit2. Since the device boasts a curved display and very thin bezels, we couldn’t use the materials and structures that are typically utilized to ensure waterproofness. So, we employed a special waterproofing material different from the one we used with the Gear Fit, to ensure IP68-level water and dust resistance. In fact, the material is the same one we used in the Galaxy S7 edge.

Q. What was your biggest focus in developing the main body of the Gear Fit2?

Hyunjun Kim: Because the Gear Fit2 is a wearable device, there was no right method for developing the body, since comfort is different for everyone. It was really challenging to create a design that the majority of people would feel comfortable wearing. So we focused on improving the quality of experience (QoE)—which is inevitably subjective—while being faithful to the basics to develop the product and maintain the design concept at the same time.

Youjung Song: To realize the refined design and useful features of the Gear Fit2, we used a wide variety of materials including curved glass, metal, plastic, silicon and urethane compound. Instead of carving the metallic part to create a curve, we applied the appropriate amount of pressure to bend it in the same curvature as the curved glass. This perfectly interlocked it with the main body and band, making the parts appear as a single object.

The fact that each material required different engineering processes made this a challenge.
Furthermore, we also had to find a way to ensure cost-efficient production to make the Gear Fit2 more affordable.

Q. What was the most difficult part of developing the main body of the Gear Fit2?

Youjung Song: Due to its shape, and the device’s small size, there wasn’t enough room to fit all the components inside. So, to make the most of the curved internal space, we applied some changes in its structure, such as splitting the mainboard into three parts. We even had to develop a tool called a “zig” to apply the right amount pressure on a curved surface—a technique we had never tried. We also produced some super-small components exclusively for the Gear Fit2. In particular, ensuring waterproofness required us to tap into different technologies and materials.

Hyunjun Kim: For me, the hardest part of developing the Gear Fit2 was creating its band. We had to find a way to satisfy people with wrists of all sizes and also consider numerous factors including how the ends of the band would be clasped together, whether the band needed an extra clasp to prevent it from falling off, ease of use and consumer feedback. Seeing as the Gear Fit2 is the first wristband design with a clasp, there was a mixed reaction to it.

Q. What makes the Gear Fit2 band so special?

Hyunjun Kim: The Gear Fit2 comes with softer band materials to provide a more comfortable fit than its predecessor and the Gear S2. The joint is certainly one of a kind, as it’s made from a special material with excellent durability to remain unchanged, even after thousands of rounds of clasps. Furthermore, clasping is easier. We also made improvements in the top color coating materials to provide an even better fit.

Seounghyun Son: We applied different patterns on the two sides of the band. On the outer side, we used a 3D pattern to add a touch of luxury, even though it doesn’t affect the usability of the device. We made the inner side of the band fast-drying so that it stays wearable, even when the device is exposed to water.

Q. What was your focus when designing the charging dock of the Gear Fit2?

Hyunjun Kim: There are actually two POGO pins on the charging dock so that the Gear Fit2 can charge upside down or right-side up. In addition, the dock has the same curvature as the Gear Fit2, and is equipped with magnets (which are also embedded in the Gear Fit2’s main body) to make charging an effortless task. Lastly, we continued to make micro adjustments on the dock to prevent corrosion in the case that your device is wet.

From left to right: Engineer Youjung Song, Senior Designer Seounghyun Son and Senior Engineer Hyunjun Kim

Note: Howard Nuk, VP of Samsung Design America, and Jeff Jones, Designer of Samsung Design America, contributed their opinions via email.

Serif TV, which the brothers developed in collaboration with Samsung, boasts a bold, wide frame and minimalist design that naturally melts into its surroundings without being overly dominant. Like the television, its parts and the packaging that contains it are just as simple and refined, as seen in the unboxing photos below.

Serif TV’s eye-appealing packaging hints at the minimalist design of the product inside.

Even the box is different—clean and elegant with little very little product description. After all, it’s what’s on the inside that matters most.

The clear, black screen and bordering frame of the TV give the impression that the device is a high-end decorative item more so than a home appliance.

The 32-inch “Medium” model of Serif TV is one of three size options that users can choose from to suit their preferences.

The eye-catching attributes of Serif TV extend beyond the television itself. Even the designs of the accessory kit, user manual and stand packaging are consistent with the Bouroullecs’ concept of minimalism.

The functions of Serif TV are easy to understand, even without instructions. However, should users be curious about the hidden features of the television, they can consult the user manual.

The remote control has also been designed to be a tasteful device that is at once familiar and entirely unique.

Another accessory that draws attention is the television’s stand, which works in unison with Serif TV’s design.

Serif TV features a striking frame, which when viewed from the side looks like a stylish capital “I” in a serif font.

Serif TV can be self-installed in just five minutes. Simply screw the stand into the four corners of the television for hassle-free set-up.

Serif TV can be placed anywhere, such as on a table or desk, but the long, spindly legs of the stand let it blend more naturally into the interior space.

The flat, shelf-like top of Serif TV allows for greater interaction with other objects, like vases, books and other decorative items.

A woven fabric panel is incorporated on the rear of the device to conceal the connectors, making Serif TV attractive from all angles.

Serif TV boasts two HDMI ports, two USB ports and can connect to one’s mobile device for displaying content. The 3.5-millimeter audio port allows for the connection of headphones or a high-end sound system. The TV is also compatible with Bluetooth speakers and has screen mirroring capability.

Although modern televisions require multiple cables and connectors, the Bouroullecs cleaned up the look by using as few wires and ports as possible without affecting Serif TV’s functionality.

The Bouroullecs designed the Serif TV to be something simple, natural and inviting—from the frame and the interface of the device down to its parts and the packaging that contains them all. In doing so, Serif TV is not just a television, but instead a meaningful device for the spaces we live in.

Showcased at the Samsung stand in the Grand Interiors hall, the stunning TV reflects Samsung’s commitment to pioneering design whilst offering customers the very best in innovative technology. Spearheading a new concept of TV, the Serif TV acts as piece of furniture rather than a technology product, blending seamlessly into any room setting.

Equipped with a new, custom-designed UI including a unique digital curtain, which applies a digital filter to live content turning it into subtle abstract patterns, the Serif TV is a high impact interior piece that works across the home. The editable Curtain Mode also forms the backdrop for the new menu, a Bluetooth speaker and a clock, giving owners the opportunity to create a backdrop that compliments the design of their home.

Breaking away from conventional ultra-flat screen TVs, the Serif TV is defined by a single frame, available in white, dark blue and red. The Serif TV and Serif TV Medium come with a stand of four attachable tubular legs enabling the TV to be freestanding, while a removable fabric-covered back panel conceals the ports and connectors, creates a sleek finish from every angle.

The Samsung Serif TV is on display at Stand L76 in the Grand Interiors Hall.

Available in three sizes and in three colours, Samsung Serif TV is available to order now from www.seriftv.com.

* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung Electronics has released Pink Gold editions of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, bringing the total of available colors for the devices to five. Debuting in Korea on April 20, the Pink Gold Galaxy S7 and S7 edge will soon be available for customers in select markets.

Pink Gold was chosen as it, like the other colors available for the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, is a natural color that provides a sense of comfort. These hues glitter and shimmer as if illuminated from inside their glass surfaces.

In particular, the refined Pink Gold color scheme is intended to soothe and incorporate a touch of gentleness, radiance and sophistication to the smartphones’ design.

As well as Pink Gold, the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are available in a choice of Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, White Pearl and Silver Titanium.

PURISM

Purism means more than just being simple. It is the removal of the decorative and cosmetic while bringing out the essence — by refining the vital elements to reveal the authenticity of the design.

360 DESIGN & INFINITY DESIGN

To understand how purism invigorates a product, two design approaches first need to be defined.

360 DESIGN Taking a fuller view

An all-encompassing complete design should be exquisitely refined from every angle. It coalesces with a variety of consumer lifestyles, yet remains a sophisticated and modern statement of innovation. Not a single consumer need is overlooked; every angle and facet is examined in perfecting this design approach. Hence, 360 design.

INFINITY DESIGN Only the Essence

We have stripped away all needless elements in order for you to focus on the essence of TV. Simply put, you can view your content when and where you want with as little distraction as possible. When you see our TVs, at first glance what seems overtly simple becomes highly detailed and refined upon closer examination. Existing simultaneously as both an entertainment system in the highest regard but also as a centerpiece of beauty, the loop continues infinitely.

DIGNITY

Perfecting Space

A person’s daily dealings reveal a lot about who they are and what they desire. The Samsung Dignity was designed to fulfill the desires of people who take great value and pride in their lifestyle. The Infinity Slim concept bezel-less screen beautifully accomplishes the illusion that the TV is floating in space. While this is astonishing to see firsthand, it isn’t a gimmick. It ultimately serves to maximize viewing pleasure by eliminating all needless elements.

At first glance, the contour line around the screen may look ethereal, almost as if it’s not there. However, this modest detail reveals to be gorgeously elaborate. As the Dignity doesn’t have a bezel to support the screen, the edges have been diamond-cut from a single sheet using the latest manufacturing technology. The Dignity becomes even more dramatic as you engage it dimensionally; the thin silver line that segments the front and back of the TV also subtly frames the screen. The surface of the back is tempered with a brush texture, while being completely devoid of any visible screws for a smooth refined finish. The result is a TV that looks graceful from anywhere in the room. The axis stand adds to this gracefulness as it utilizes the simplest of all 3-dimensional geometry, combining stability with minimal coverage.

The art of simplicity is entirely in the details. It is this attention to the intricacies that makes our own definition of design craftsmanship so unique.

It’s an eloquent tension of geometry

TRIUMPH

Brilliant Balance of Seeing, Hearing and Feeling

Samsung designed the Triumph for those who pursue both performance and perfection in their lives. The horizontal metal bar at the bottom of the screen gently supports the body of the TV while the slight curve of the support adds the illusion of a floating screen while enhancing the viewing experience.

When assembling the TV, the legs can easily be inserted without the need for screws or other tools. Not only that, the legs can be positioned in two different widths allowing for more aesthetic options when deciding where to place it in the room. Like the Dignity, the back of the Triumph was also designed with a clean back design; no screws or seams to ensure a smooth refined TV that can be enjoyed from any angle in the room. Together, the Dignity and Triumph personify the 360 Design as well as the Infinity Design concept in an innovative yet highly sophisticated approach.

It provides ultimate immersion in a minimalist living space

Complete Design, What It Means

The TVs you’ve just been introduced to hold more than a mere minimalist aesthetic approach. Such an approach, it can be said, is the outcome of our efforts here at Samsung Electronics to imbue our sense of values as well as the best possible viewing experience from our products. We’ve combined design with technology to discard any minute detail that hinders this experience, thereby creating a synergy of enjoyment between you and the experience of engaging with your TV. That combination of design and technology inserted into your viewing experience is what we pride ourselves in; attention to detail, to design, to craftsmanship.

Complete Design is about 100% satisfaction not only from the designer but also, of course, from the consumer. It is with no exaggeration or embellishment that we at Samsung Electronics strive to achieve the most meaningful of products. It has always been our spirit and it will continue to drive us into this year and beyond.

Sincere 7, innovate 7

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are here. The journey to perfection has at last culminated the palm of your hands. The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge design story is an accumulation of the Galaxy series design identity as well as the relentless pursuit of creating a more human-centered device both in form and user experience.

As we mentioned in the previous episode, we’ll go a bit deeper into the design language of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. Think of it as a precursor to the real thing you’ll be holding in your hand soon enough.

Touch is the New Sight: Surprised? Pick it up, you haven’t seen anything yet

Imagine a pebble on the beach polished by the constant crash of waves. It is a work of art, perfected by nature. That pebble smooth and seamless, is in a nutshell, the design approach of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. The design really resonates in the touch rather than the look of the design. Pick it up, it feels better in your hand than it actually looks. We’re confident that you’ll quickly build a rapport with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge as you keep reading and finding out more about the different functions and features of this new work of art.

A Simpler Design for You, a Highly Complex Approach for Us

The new Galaxy S7 edge front glass is designed with 3D thermoforming technology. The entire dimensions, including the tempered sides of the phone, were molded into one coherent whole. The tempered glass was slowly shaped in immensely high temperatures, a highly complex technique that is not for the faint of heart. This new form serves to enhance the grip, but also the subtle nuance of light that hit and reflects on the device gives it a dimension and depth unseen in a communication device until now.

3D thermoforming is the edge of the blade in technological advancement and combining design with such innovations is key. We don’t have the space to fully explain the complex processes needed to craft such a contour that unifies both glass and metal, nor do you need to understand such technicalities to fully experience the new Galaxy S7 edge. All you need is to pick up the device and feel the difference in your hands.

All That Needs to Stand Out is You

Right where it should be, but hidden flush in the contours as though hidden. The side button and rear camera of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are incredibly subtle. What you have is a continuous fluid body that isn’t disrupted by the button or lens jutting out. We’ve also made a water and dust resistant body without scarifying the design by covering USB and ear jack with rubber. Without re-engineering the wheel, we’ve refined the status quo toward a perfect form. For the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge we chose usability and comfort instead to enable the camera and buttons to be unobtrusive. Now, all that needs to stand out is you.

Color and Material – Everything’s a Bit Deeper

A natural illumination and depth devoid of artificial treatment — four colors were developed to embody this quality: Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, White Pearl, and Silver Titanium. These hues glitter and shimmer as if illuminated from inside the glass surface. Such effects are achieved with an optical layer process that applies film on the surface of the curved glass.

Black Onyx, one of the newly developed colors, applies a unique pattern that fractures light into a unique ebony hue found only on the S7; it enriches the depth of the transparent glass material. Gold Platinum, is reminiscent of smokey quartz; Silver Titanium mixes white and silver for a stern yet vivid feel. Whichever you choose, each color affects the glass material in a distinct and unique way.

Even Easy to Miss Details Weren’t Missed

The first impression packaging and accessories of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge were not far from the designer’s desk. The sturdy embossed black box hints at the new experience of touch that awaits you, and as it opens up like a book the revealing of the device is a new experience in itself; intuitive, yet undoubtedly premium in the classic sense without even having touched the phone yet.

The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge accessories follow a consistent design approach. In this way, you can literally see the underlying concept as well as the effort put in by each designer to develop each accessory and item to a stringent level of quality. Having said that, each of the 10 items (8 for the case, 2 for power) retain a unique look that was developed through collaboration and cooperation between the developers and designers.

Establishing Sincerity: A Life-Centered UX

A smartphone isn’t just another cool statement piece. It’s probably the most important personal hands-on hands-on device we use in our daily lives. It is therefore vital that you communicate and interact well with it. Likewise, the newly developed interface and UX design of the Galaxy S7 edge adjusts accordingly to your needs and usage patterns. It strives to create not the most efficient and quickest functions or commands but a rapport with you, an experience that is focused on you, where effectiveness and efficiency come naturally.

Connecting You Easier, Quicker

Your smartphone is also an interactive hub that connects all the diverse digital devices in your everyday life. With the Quick Connect function on the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, your phone links you with various devices around you. On/Off assists your phone in connecting with Samsung appliances as well as other Bluetooth connections, you can even check battery levels on certain devices. Also, a backlog of linked devices is kept so you don’t have to look for them again at a later time.

The Start of Smart Just Got Smarter

The home and lock screen is probably the focal point of any interaction with a smart device. The clock and weather display has been further refined on the home screen as well as a search function in each app tray for quick searches and access. A new added function is the temporary app tray that holds apps that you’re scrolling through on the home screen in one easy to access folder. The two shortcut icons on the lock screen are customizable to fit your everyday needs, or if you’re a minimalist at heart you can discard the icons all together for a crisp clear lock screen look.

Data Transfer Done Smart

With the Smart Switch function you can now transfer your data from a previous phone to your new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. USB connection and Wi-Fi Direct are the two connecting options, what’s new about this function is that folders, widgets, home screen layouts, third party apps everything is transferred exactly as they were into your new phone. Maybe not the most exciting of functions newly introduced in the S7 series but the Smart Switch function is one more facet that shows the level of sincerity and personalization you can achieve with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge.

Off, but Not Really

Even when the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are turned off, it is still attentive to your movements. AOD (Always On Display), a function specific to the off state of the phone displays the time, calendar or message alerts when you need them without having to turning on the device as we do a thousand times a day.

Wider Edge, Better Usability

The edge panel just got wider. From 260 pixels to 550, the almost double increase in screen real estate opens up multitudes of opportunity that go beyond mere size. Image and text elements are two main benefactors of this increase, while the edge has been opened from just people and apps to third party applications and their functions. The position, size and transparency of the Edge Handler can also be adjusted according to preference.

The previous design of the edge screen was innovative enough for us to take that same technology but refine it and tailor it to fit more into the everyday habits and gestures of you, the user. We’re also confident that with the introduction of third party developers into this arena the floodgates of possibilities have been opened.

Won’t Let You Miss a Beat

The Cross App lets you access different functions even with an application already open on the screen. For example, messages, emails, memos can be accessed with a viewer window that pops up in front of the app in use. Also images, videos, music files, memos, schedule and contact info can be attached with the Attach Sheet interface while all that is going on. Video files can be accessed simply by tapping on the icon in the message app without leaving the screen, while the camera and photos can be taken or sent without even accessing the apps themselves.

Perfected Outside In

The design of a new product shouldn’t be redundant. If anything, the best products are perfected from a holistic approach; outside as well as in, whole and details, even the rapport that users share with their device is of importance. Without too much banter users intuitively understand the device as the sense of sincere premium sets in. Attachment to a product or device stem from this very source as well as we strive to aim higher in our aim to perfection, and we here at Samsung Electronics feel that is where the key to a satisfactory premium product lies.

The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge design has just begun and will continue to be perfected by you. When you interact with it, touch it and use it everyday the simplicity and beauty of meaningful design will touch your heart.

Samsung Electronics announced that it won 38 iF Design Awards, including one Gold award, at the world renowned International Forum Design Awards 2016. Twenty-six of the awards were given for superior product design, eight for communication design, two for concept design, one for package design and one for interior architecture design.

“We are honored to be recognized by the International Forum Design for our excellence in product design,” said BK Yoon, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics and the Head of Corporate Design Center at Samsung. “We will continue to challenge ourselves and develop innovative designs that benefit our consumers based on our deep insights into their needs.”

Samsung received the Gold award for its Serif TV, a result of its focus on design that harmoniously interacts with people’s surrounding environments and naturally blends in with everyday furniture and various household objects. Main features of the Serif TV include: a design that resembles a capital “I” in serif font; a detachable stand, which allows the product to be placed anywhere within the home without standing out; and a fabric cover on the back side of the product, which heightens its beauty from every angle.

In addition to the Gold award, Samsung won a total of 26 iF Design Awards in the product category:

• Galaxy S6 & S6 edge: Both smartphones feature a harmonious design of metal and glass parts, and the Galaxy S6 edge features the first dual-edge display on either sides.
• Gear S2: A smart wearable device with a unique rotating bezel, and an optimized UX for easy operation.
• Chef Collection Fridge: A refrigerator for the European market, featuring a Kitchen Fit design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding kitchen furniture without needing additional built-in construction.
• AddWash Front-load Washing Machine: A washer with a distinctive access door that makes it convenient to add any item during a wash cycle without opening the main washer door.
• System Air Conditioner 360Cassette: A circular, ceiling-mounted system air conditioner that controls the temperature of the room by providing an even distribution of air across a full 360 degree range.
• MX3: A3 Multifunction Printer with a 7 inch LCD screen for easy operation.

In the remaining categories, Samsung received 12 awards. Following are the key products and concepts:

• Galaxy Note5 UX: A smartphone UX that allows consumers to write a memo with an S Pen without turning on the screen. Awarded in the communications category.
• Visual Identity Toolkit: A visual identity toolkit that provides a unified guideline for all digital and printed media of Samsung Printing Solutions. Awarded in the communications category.
• TV UI (Stripe UI): An intuitive TV user interface that offers consumers a novel experience in navigating media content. Awarded in the professional concept design category.
• Avengers Package: The Galaxy S6 edge limited edition package inspired by the Avengers. Awarded in the package designs category.
• Samsung d’light: An exhibition space that provides the Samsung brand experience and showcases Samsung’s latest products and solutions. Awarded in the interior architecture category.

iF Design Awards began in Germany in 1953, and is organized by the International Forum Design. Product submissions are based on a comprehensive evaluation of design, material suitability, innovativeness and seven additional categories: Product, Packaging, Communication, Interior Architecture, Professional Concept, Service Design and Architecture.