To mark World Sleep Day 2026, a global study of Samsung Health users^[2] is shedding new light on the true extent of the condition and the disruptive impact it has on your sleep. Aligned with this year’s World Sleep Day theme, “Sleep Well, Live Better,” Samsung is turning the invisible signs of sleep apnea into actionable insights through its Galaxy Watch series, helping those affected improve their sleep habits and overall health.

How Does Sleep Apnea Impact Your Sleep?

The report found that 23% of study participants are at risk of sleep apnea.

“The microarousals and awakenings that follow breathing pauses fragment your sleep,” explains behavioral sleep scientist Dr. Vanessa Hill. “Those occurrences can prevent the brain from staying in the REM and deep sleep stages necessary for cognitive and physical restoration.”

The report shows these constant disruptions take a direct toll on sleep duration and quality, leading to:

• Reduced REM Sleep: Participants with moderate to severe sleep apnea indicators detected by their Galaxy Watch got around four minutes less rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the phase where our brains process emotions, consolidate memories and cement learning. Without enough of it, people can experience mood instability and memory problems, impacting performance at work and overall well-being.
• Less Deep Sleep: Sleep apnea also robs sufferers of deep sleep, approximately eight minutes less per night, on average. This is the body’s critical physical restoration phase, where growth hormone is released, muscles are repaired, and your immune system is activated. Losing out on deep sleep is why you may feel physically exhausted, have slower recovery times, and get sick more often.
• Frequent Nightly Awakenings: Study participants with signs of sleep apnea also woke up regularly during the night and stayed awake around four minutes longer. These interruptions derail the sleep cycle, locking you into lighter, less restorative stages and making next-day exhaustion inevitable, no matter how long you slept.
• Shorter Sleep Duration: Overall, people with a higher likelihood of sleep apnea averaged around 12 minutes less sleep. While this loss may seem minor, it can have a significant impact on overall sleep quality as your sleep cycle gets fragmented throughout the night.

Why It Matters: “Even a small loss in sleep duration is compounded by a larger loss of sleep quality,” said Dr. Hill. “This can be the difference between simply being ‘in bed’ and getting restorative rest, which could be why people feel so tired the next day.”

Dr. Hill also advocates a multidimensional approach to sleep health. “Sleep apnea affects many dimensions of sleep — duration, quality, sleep efficiency and even daytime fatigue,” she stated. “They together help determine our health and functioning.”

With sleep apnea shown to impact all aspects of sleep and lead to other health complications, detection is an essential first step in the fight against the condition.

How Does Galaxy Watch Help Detect Signs of Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea?   

For years, sleep apnea has been difficult to detect due to the need for inconvenient hospital tests. However, Samsung offers at-home detection with a first-of-its-kind Sleep Apnea^[3] feature on your Galaxy Watch.

• How It Works: Users simply track their sleep with a compatible Galaxy Watch^[4] for more than four hours over two nights within a ten-day period. Available through the Samsung Health Monitor app, the Sleep Apnea feature enables users to proactively spot signs of the condition. Initially launched in Korea, the feature has since received De Novo authorization from the U.S. FDA and is now available in 78 markets^[5] worldwide and counting.
• The Technology: Leveraging the Galaxy Watch’s BioActive Sensor, the feature tracks blood oxygen levels to determine when the user stops breathing (apnea) or is not breathing enough (hypopnea). Based on this data, the feature estimates the user’s Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which indicates the severity of obstructive sleep apnea(OSA).
• From Awareness to Action: By detecting signs of sleep apnea early, the feature provides the data needed for an informed consultation with a medical professional. In addition to tackling sleep apnea, your Galaxy Watch can help you build habits for better holistic sleep health. Features include the Sleep Coaching program for detailed analysis and tips on how to improve sleep quality and Bedtime Guidance,^[6] which recommends your optimal bedtime to ensure you consistently get enough sleep.

“For years, the inconvenience of an in-lab clinical sleep study has been a barrier to diagnosing sleep apnea,” added Dr. Hill. “Wearable technology such as Galaxy Watch is a breakthrough because it democratizes that first step. It allows people to gather meaningful data from their own beds, providing a starting point for a conversation with a healthcare professional.”

Take Control of Your Night

A good night’s sleep is the first step toward a healthier, more energized life, and Samsung is here to guide you. Samsung’s ecosystem offers end-to-end care, from detecting signs of sleep apnea on your Galaxy Watch to providing suggestions to receive professional adviceto connecting you with professional advice through our health network.

Looking ahead, Samsung is constantly innovating and improving the Sleep Apnea feature to make it even more powerful with sharper insights. Prioritize your rest today to unlock a healthier tomorrow.

^[1]“Obstructive Sleep Apnea National Indicator Report,” American Academy of Sleep Medicine (2023)

^[2]Samsung Health users from the U.S., South Korea, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Russia, Chile, South Africa, and the Philippines participated in the study from January–June 2025.   

^[3]The Sleep Apnea feature is an over-the-counter (OTC), software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and phone. It is intended for on demand use. Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders. For users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea, the feature monitors for signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

^[4]Availability may vary by market, carrier, model, or a paired smartphone. Available on Galaxy Watch4 series and later models. The watch requires the Wear OS 5.0 version or later and must be paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 12.0 or later.

^[5]Supported markets include Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norfolk Island, Norway, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Réunion, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen.

^[6]Bedtime guidance is available on Android phone (Android 11 and above) requires Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or later). Bedtime guidance based on 3 days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or sleep disorder. Please consult a medical professional for advice.

Samsung Electronics participated in World Sleep 2025, joining industry experts and leaders at the biennial international forum dedicated to advancing global sleep health. Samsung showcased its latest advancements in wearable technology, which work seamlessly with the Samsung Health app to empower consumers in their pursuit of healthier and more balanced lives.

Visitors to the Samsung booth were offered an interactive experience to explore how its innovations can support better sleep and health. Attendees were given the opportunity to complete a short sleep survey to discover what type of sleeper they are – to determine their distinct sleep pattern with unique characteristics related to sleep duration, consistency and awake time. The booth also highlighted the transformative potential of the Samsung Health Software Development Kit (SDK) — a powerful suite of developer tools that enables the secure and consent-based use of health data. SDK is a testament to Samsung’s continuous integration of technology into daily life to foster better health outcomes, particularly in the critical area of sleep.

“Sleep is a cornerstone of health, and at Samsung, we are committed to helping people understand and improve it,” said Jong Min Choi, Vice President (VP) of Health R&D, Samsung Electronics. “At World Sleep 2025, we are proud to demonstrate how our innovations can translate complex biometrics into clear, actionable insights that help individuals take meaningful steps towards better everyday well-being”.

During the Samsung symposium which focused on wearables and next-generation technologies, VP Choi discussed the advancements that Samsung has made in delivering solutions that support health and wellness, detailing how its innovations are shaping the future of health.

Uncovering Health Habits in Southeast Asia and Oceania

Consumer research conducted by Samsung across Southeast Asia and Oceania (SEAO)^[1] has shed light on some critical challenges concerning sleep and overall health. The findings indicate that adults in the SEAO region average only about 6 hours and 50 minutes of sleep per night, less than the seven to nine hours generally recommended by the National Sleep Foundation^[2]. A deeper dive into the research reveals that 28% of respondents reported “an inability to switch off” as a key concern they have for sleep.

The survey also highlighted that stress levels are notably elevated among working adults aged 36 to 45. This demographic faces unique pressures, and the burden is particularly pronounced for women –  many who are managing the demanding dual responsibilities of their careers and family life.

These insights underscore the need for greater awareness as well as practical and accessible health and sleep solutions, reinforcing the importance of Samsung’s efforts to develop products and features that provide insights on sleep, stress and fitness for better and more personalised wellness management.

Leading the Charge in Sleep Health

One of Samsung’s latest innovations in personalised health experiences is the Galaxy Watch8 Series, newly launched in July 2025. This series introduces a suite of advanced features designed to elevate the effectiveness of sleep tracking and coaching.

The Bedtime Guidance feature offers personalised sleep recommendations that are crafted based on the Two-Process Model of Sleep Regulation – a well-established scientific framework that describes the interaction between homeostatic sleep drive and circadian rhythms. By leveraging this model, Bedtime Guidance^[3] empowers users to proactively establish healthier sleep routines, promoting more consistent and restorative sleep patterns.

Beyond helping users build better sleep habits, the Galaxy Watch8 Series offers a Sleep Apnea^[4] feature which enables users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period, a common and chronic sleep condition that often goes undiagnosed and untreated. When users are alerted to signs of sleep apnea, they can take steps to seek medical attention and management for the condition, thereby mitigating potential long-term health risks.

In addition to helping users sleep better, the Galaxy Watch8 Series incorporates Vascular Load^[5] monitoring to track stress levels of the vascular system during sleep. When sleeping, stress levels should naturally dip although excessive fluctuations can negatively impact cardiovascular health. By providing lifestyle information such as sleep, stress and activity, the insights from Vascular Load are designed to help users better understand their overall wellness and encourage small, consistent lifestyle changes that support long-term cardiovascular health.

The Galaxy Watch8 Series represents a significant leap forward in empowering users to better manage their well-being through intelligent and personalised health monitoring.

Driving Everyday Wellness

Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch8 Series also includes broader health and fitness capabilities. These include an Antioxidant Index[6] — introduced for the first time in a smartwatch — to measure carotenoid levels in the skin, and the Running Coach[7] to support fitness enthusiasts. There are also stress management tools, such as High Stress Alert, guided breathing exercises, and holistic energy scoring.

These wellness capabilities reflect Samsung’s broader commitment to transforming fragmented health data into meaningful, personalised insights, empowering consumers to take control of their health in simple, everyday ways. By combining advanced sensor technology, AI-driven insights, and a holistic health ecosystem, Samsung continues to set new standards for how wearables can improve lives — one night’s sleep at a time.

^[1]_{The study was conducted in December 2024 via online surveys, with 18,168 respondents (of which 3,098 were wearable users), aged 18 – 59 years old, in Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam.}

^[2] _{National Sleep Foundation: How Much Sleep Do You Really Need?}

^[3]_{Based on three days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.}

^[4]_{The Sleep Apnea feature is an over-the-counter (OTC), software-only mobile medical application operating on compatible Galaxy Watch Series models and Galaxy smartphones. It is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users age 22 and older over a two-night monitoring period. The feature is designed for on-demand use and is not intended for individuals previously diagnosed with sleep apnea. Users should not rely on this feature as a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare provider. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders.}

^[5]_{Wearing a compatible Galaxy Watch is required when sleeping for at least three of the most recent 14 days.}

^[6]_{To measure, the user should place the center of their finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for five seconds. While Antioxidant Index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to different results.}

^[7]_{Prior to starting the coach programme, taking a running level test and receiving a level designation is required.}

This growth has been driven by the feature securing CE (Conformité Européenne, European Conformity) marking for the European Economic Area (EEA). The CE marking affirms that Samsung meets the European Union’s strict health, safety, and environmental protection standards, further solidifying its leadership in sleep technology. Additionally, the feature has recently been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia and Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore.

The milestone follows Samsung’s groundbreaking United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) De Novo authorisation — the first of its kind for a wearable device to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. Moreover, the Sleep Apnea feature has also received regulatory approval from Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), Brazil’s Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) and Health Canada, Canada’s regulatory authority.

Recognising the critical role of sleep in overall health, Samsung is committed to enhancing users’ sleep quality by understanding their sleep patterns, providing personalised sleep coaching and optimising sleep environments. The Sleep Apnea feature on Galaxy Watch now enables even more users to identify possible symptoms earlier — helping to prevent health issues associated with this common yet often undiagnosed condition.

When it comes to your health, small changes can make a big difference, starting with a good night’s sleep. The quality of sleep we get every night has a significant impact on our physical and mental well-being, and the Sleep Apnea feature continues Samsung’s commitment to provide Galaxy users with the best possible tools to improve healthy sleep habits. By expanding access to its Sleep Apnea feature globally, Samsung is empowering users worldwide to take proactive steps toward better sleep health.

^[1] The Sleep Apnea Feature is an over-the-counter (OTC) software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and phone. This feature is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users aged 22 and older, over a two-night monitoring period. It is intended for on-demand use. This feature is not intended for users who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. This feature should not be used to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders.

^[2] Availability may vary by market, carrier, model, or a paired smartphone. Available on Galaxy Watch4 series and later models. The watch requires the Wear OS 5.0 version or later and must be paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 12.0 or later. Due to market restrictions in obtaining approval/registration as a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD), it only works on watches and smartphones purchased in the markets where service is currently available (however, service may be restricted when users travel to non-service markets).

^[3] In some European markets, the application dates may vary according to national registration.

^[4] Supported markets include Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norfolk Island, Norway, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Réunion, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen.

Across Southeast Asia and Oceania (SEAO), countries face various healthcare challenges, including the prevalence of chronic diseases, uneven healthcare access, rising cost of living, lack of healthcare professionals, and ageing populations.

At Samsung Electronics, we are committed to using technology to drive innovation and create meaningful solutions where they are needed the most. We understand that true progress requires fostering a culture of problem-solving where individuals, especially young innovators, are empowered to develop solutions that make a difference.

Samsung’s Corporate Citizenship initiatives such as the Solve for Tomorrow program is a powerful platform for aspiring innovators to focus their creativity and technological ingenuity on developing innovations that not only benefit their community, but also address societal issues, such as those in healthcare.

This World Health Day, we celebrate our young innovators who are building solutions that aim to address the most pressing healthcare challenges of today.

Young minds, breakthrough solutions

Gabriel refined Pill-Bot through experimentation and testing

Across the SEAO region, students from as young as 12 years old are devising solutions to enhance healthcare accessibility and effectiveness. Gabriel Anthony, a 12-year-old from Whitby Collegiate in New Zealand was awarded first prize in the Year 7 to 10 category at the Solve for Tomorrow New Zealand 2024 competition with his invention, Pill-Bot, an artificial intelligence (AI) medication identifier designed for the visually impaired, inspired by his grandmother’s experience of taking the wrong medication. His innovative approach involves training an AI bot to recognise different types of pills and verbally announcing their names to enable patients, especially those with visual impairment, to identify their medication before consumption.

SilentGuide processes spoken words directed at an individual and transcribes them into subtitles

In Singapore, Team redbluegold made up of Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) students Aiden Lim and Karan Gopu Pillai claimed victory in Singapore’s Solve for Tomorrow 2024 competition with SilentGuide—a pair of smart glasses that transcribes spoken words into subtitles, helping people with hearing impairment participate more meaningfully in conversations. Inspired by a classmate with a hearing impairment who had struggled to maintain a two-way conversation in a noisy classroom, the team set out to create a solution that functions without an internet connection, and is comfortable to wear, user-friendly and affordable.

Cough Aid can be used anywhere and at any time, easing access to preliminary screening and boosting the chances of individuals receiving timely treatment

Meanwhile in Thailand, Team Kao Kee’s Cough Aid innovation emerged as one of the finalists in the Solve for Tomorrow 2024 competition in Thailand. This web application relies on AI technology to analyse cough sounds and preliminary diagnose respiratory diseases, potentially enabling pre-emptive treatment and better health outcomes. In a region where respiratory conditions remain prevalent, such early-warning systems could prove transformative.

Recognising these talented young minds as a glimpse into the future of industries such as healthcare, participants in the Solve for Tomorrow programme receive mentorship from industry experts, alongside access to innovative technology and resources to help transform their concepts into reality.

Transforming healthcare through technology

Everyday wellness at a glance with Samsung Health^[1]

At Samsung, we believe that technology has the power to enhance everyday life. Galaxy users can benefit from the Energy Score^[2] in the Samsung Heath app^[3], which provides holistic insights through multiple health indicators including sleep, heart health, and physical activity. When paired with the Galaxy Ring, users can enjoy comprehensive health tracking throughout the day and night, enhancing the accuracy and ease of sleep tracking.

The Galaxy Watch series offers more advanced capabilities suited for users interested in a broader spectrum of health insights—from Electrocardiogram (ECG)^[4] to Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)^[5]. Connect these to a Galaxy smartphone, such as the latest Galaxy S25 Series, allows users to receive actionable insights to improve their well-being.

Building a healthier future together

The intersection of youthful innovation and established technology can offer unexpected breakthroughs that address the healthcare challenges of today; solutions that improve accessibility, enhance prevention, and enable early intervention are becoming increasingly vital.

Samsung remains committed to advancing healthcare innovation through a dual approach that includes empowering young problem-solvers through programs like Solve for Tomorrow, while continuing to develop innovations that support users’ wellness goals.

This World Health Day, we celebrate not just the innovations of today, but the possibilities of these innovations—and the brilliant minds behind them—to create a healthier tomorrow for all.

^[1] Devices and screen images are simulated for illustrative purposes. UX/UI may vary depending on software version, model, region and other factors. Samsung Health tracking features are intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek medical advice from a medical professional.

^[2] To check the Energy score, the health data tracked from Samsung Galaxy Watch (Galaxy Watch4 series and later models, excluding Galaxy Fit3) or Samsung Galaxy Ring must be synchronised with the Samsung Health app. Needs at least the previous day’s activity data and sleep, and heart rate data during sleep. 

Energy score and Wellness tips are available on Android phones (Android 11 or above) and requires Samsung Health app (v6.27 or above).

^[3] Requires Samsung Health app version 6.24 or later. Galaxy Watch7 must be paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 11.

^[4] The ECG feature is only available in select markets. The ECG app is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment. The ECG app is not intended for users with known arrhythmias other than atrial fibrillation or users under 22 years old. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.

^[5] Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. Do not measure your body composition if you have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices. Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant. Measurement results may not be accurate if you are under 20 years old.

Dr. Hon Pak, SVP and Head of Digital Health Team, MX Business at Samsung Electronics sat down with Samsung Health Advisory Board members in early spring 2024 at the Samsung Medical Center in Seoul to discuss the future of health and how wearables powered by AI will play a big role in driving the industry forward. Dr. Michael Blum, M.D., CEO and co-founder of medical analysis platform, BeeKeeper AI, former Chief Digital Transformation Officer at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Division of Cardiology; Dr. David Klonoff, M.D., President of the Diabetes Research Institute at Mills Peninsula Medical Center; and Professor Myung Jin Chung, Director of Samsung AI Research Center at Samsung Medical Center (SAIC) shared expert insights and unique perspectives on how Samsung can strategically embrace AI, with a specific focus on its upcoming wearables portfolio.

What do you see as the future of health and what role does technology play in it, especially when combined with Generative AI?

Professor Chung: Through years of clinical experiences, I’ve learned there is immense value in a comprehensive, 360-degree understanding of a patient’s health history. However, it can be challenging to fully grasp their lifestyle or key wellness factors, such as sleep patterns or eating habits, especially when treatment is focused on specific symptoms. Lifelog data gained from wearables can be helpful for healthcare and clinical management to better understand the full context of one’s health history. And AI can assist clinicians by streamlining the management and interpretation of collected information over time, simplifying the process. The future of AI is distilling vital insights from daily life to deliver a deeper understanding of one’s health based on continuous monitoring by a wearable.

Dr. Blum: As a cardiologist, I also want to add that continuous monitoring is emerging as a vital tool in early detection and prediction of a potential disease. For instance, conditions like atrial fibrillation and high blood pressure, which are high risk and impact, yet manageable through low-intensity interventions, can benefit greatly from such monitoring. By wearing a smartwatch, we can better understand the underlying issues that may be contributing to it, and Samsung can be hugely impactful here. These tools, powered by AI, can easily turn data into consumable insights and actionable wisdom, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to reduce possible health risks.

Dr. Klonoff: Glucose monitoring has become more prevalent, not just for diabetes management but for people who don’t have diabetes yet are interested in pursuing a healthier lifestyle. As such, there’s increasing interest in understanding what behaviors affect glucose levels. Since health metrics are interconnected, combining glucose data with sleep, blood pressure, and activity level insights initiates profound conversations about individuals’ lifestyles and experiences. And if users can gain a deeper understanding of these collective insights sooner, then there’s increased opportunity to identify early warning signs of potential health issues such as diabetes. Wearables and AI amplify the value of physiological data and individuals can gain a richer, more nuanced understanding of metabolic health and facilitate opportunities to improve overall wellness and fitness.

What role do you expect Samsung to play in the evolving health landscape?

Dr. Klonoff: We encourage Samsung to not only embrace AI in their health monitoring technology but continue to lean on their pioneering heritage of innovation to emerge as a leader in promoting behavioural change. Through ongoing conversations and collaborative efforts with medical experts, Samsung can help people make the changes in their lives that are needed. Leveraging these insights can encourage people to stay healthy over the long term without feeling overwhelmed and enable them to lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.

Dr. Blum: I agree that technology integrated into people’s lives can be an important step to maintain everyday wellness and help to prevent serious health conditions. These devices should seamlessly work in the background in an innocuous way, and Samsung has been a clear leader in this space with its diverse product offerings, ranging from smartphones and TVs to home appliances. However, the question that remains is how can we successfully improve people’s daily lives from a wellness perspective? In the end, it is crucial to connect with users to understand their patterns and encourage positive behavioural modifications; and Samsung has the potential to push the limits of what’s possible, so we can all take better care of ourselves and our families.

Professor Chung: I echo Dr. Blum’s sentiment, in that while Samsung devices are already deeply embedded into our everyday lives, there are opportunities to further embrace its device ecosystem to facilitate behavioural changes for a happier, healthier tomorrow. However, there’s immense power in making behavioural changes with support from family members; it’s more effective than taking on this challenge alone. That’s why it’s necessary to leverage continuous monitoring and insights, as well as create a care circle with family and friends. Samsung can be a huge contributor in creating a care circle by leveraging its expertise and advanced capabilities to maximise social connections with the goal of providing users with greater knowledge about themselves and their loved ones.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today showcased its latest innovations for the connected home. During its IFA 2023 press conference, the company highlighted its vision for SmartThings is to enable consumers across Europe to prioritise the topics they care about – from saving energy, increasing security and access to great entertainment to making their everyday lives more efficient. The ever-growing SmartThings ecosystem allows its 285 million users to adapt and personalise their homes to suit their needs, seamlessly connecting and controlling multiple appliances and devices via one app.

Samsung’s presence at IFA 2023 comes as the company shares new consumer research, conducted across Europe to understand evolving needs for technology in the home^[1].

“Samsung is passionate about connecting our users to the people, places and pastimes that matter most to them,” said Benjamin Braun, Chief Marketing Officer, Samsung Europe. “We will continue to take advantage of the possibilities offered by the latest innovations in technology to make sure the SmartThings ecosystem grows and develops in a way that allows people to make even more of the connections that matter.”

Enhancing the at-home experience 

The SmartThings app allows users to control their homes from anywhere, helping them to enjoy seamless entertainment as well as keeping them safe. Across Europe, our homes continue to be more important than ever as they play multiple roles each day – from offices to places for relaxation and entertainment. Seven in ten consumers (71%) agree that technology has a positive impact on their everyday living, including how they interact with their friends and family, how they conduct their chores and how they enjoy their hobbies.

Now, those with a passion for food can fully connect themselves to the joy of cooking and eating with Samsung Food, the new all-in-one app for recipe searching, saving and sharing, meal planning, cooking and grocery shopping. Announced at the press conference, Samsung Food is available in 104 countries and eight languages, and puts the world’s food knowledge at users’ fingertips, empowering them to make the food, health and cooking decisions that are right for them. It also connects to users’ kitchens, instantly sending the right time and temperature to their compatible Samsung oven. With more than 160,000 recipes, there will always be something new to cook.

By the end of the year, using Food AI, Samsung Food will provide personalised recipes reflecting users’ dietary requirements, such as converting recipes into a vegan version in just a few taps. In a further enhancement due later this year, it will link with Samsung Health so tailored meal plans can be adapted to suit preferences and dietary requirements, as well as support users in reaching their health goals. In 2024, using Vision AI technology, Samsung Food will use photos taken of meals to check nutritional information, recognise ingredients and recommend the best recipes to use them in.

As the number one TV brand for 17 years in a row^[2], Samsung has an unrivalled commitment to entertainment. It has completed its super screen line up with the launch of the 98” QLED 4K Q80C, offering incredible contrast and jaw-dropping detail that places viewers in the middle of the action whether gaming or watching films.

Also announced at the press conference was the global launch of The Freestyle 2^nd Gen. This versatile, portable projector delivers a big screen experience wherever the user chooses – even on the ceiling. The Smart Edge Blending feature offers landscape and portrait screen experiences, meaning two Freestyle 2^nd Gen projectors can be paired to give a 160” panoramic viewing experience.

Taking small steps for our planet 

Samsung is committed to developing products and services that help people save money and take steps towards a better planet. These topics are high on the agenda for consumers too, over three quarters (77%) say they seek out tech products that save energy – not only to save money, but for the benefit of the environment too^[3]. Two-thirds (67%) also consider it important that their next appliance can connect to an app that allows them to monitor and reduce their energy consumption^[4].

With energy prices increasing across Europe^[5], 72% of those asked are concerned about the cost of running appliances in their home^[6]. To help combat this, SmartThings Energy can help users optimise the energy used across their appliances to suit their needs and lower usage. For example, AI Energy Mode in SmartThings Energy allows you to monitor and reduce your washing machine’s energy use by up to 70%^[7] by using Ecobubble to wash with cool water instead of warm.

Samsung has also partnered with global ocean conservation organisation Ocean Wise and apparel maker Patagonia to find solutions to the issue of microfiber shedding. Speaking at IFA, Charlie Cox, Manager of Microplastic Solutions at Ocean Wise said: “Through our collaboration with Samsung and Patagonia, Ocean Wise is proud to have shown a way for industry to play its part in stemming the flow of microfibers into the ocean. Through innovations like the Less Microfiber Filter, we can empower individuals to reduce their microfiber footprint at home. It is a simple, everyday solution that our oceans will thank us for.”

Samsung’s journey is constantly evolving as it aims to design technology that helps people make the most of their day while taking small steps to reduce our environmental impact. The Galaxy Z Flip5^[8] and Fold5^[9] and the Galaxy Tab S9 series^[10] feature a variety of recycled materials, including recycled aluminium, glass and plastics sourced from ocean-bound discarded fishing nets, water barrels and PET bottles. Even the Galaxy Watch6 series incorporate post-consumer recycled plastics. All of these Galaxy innovations come in packaging boxes made using recycled paper material^[11].

Keeping your home secure

Samsung understands the reassurance that smart technology can provide across the generations. Security was an emerging theme from the research conducted. Watching their home while they aren’t there (54%), feeling safer when home alone (39%) and keeping their family safe when they are out of the house (39%) are seen as the key safety benefits of smart technology^[12].

The SmartThings ecosystem includes a range of partners who are committed to helping people keep their homes and loved ones safe. This now includes Yale, a leading brand in home security. The Yale Linus® Smart Lock and the new Smart Opener for Gate & Garage enable doors and gates to be locked remotely via the app to ensure peace of mind for all family members.

Unlocking the future through smart technology 

Samsung is invested in a future built around the possibilities that technology can unlock. One area it aims to make a difference is in making the technology for smart homes more easily available. The research shows a quarter of Europeans consider the inclusion of smart technology to be a key factor in the desirability of their next home and over three quarters of respondents said fully functional smart homes are appealing (77%)^[13].

Understanding this, Samsung is working to make these possibilities a reality and it believes in the power of collaboration when it comes to driving this vision forward. By partnering with ABB Smart Buildings and SMA, one of the world’s leading providers of photovoltaic and storage system technology, it hopes to connect people more closely to their homes by embedding the possibilities of smart technology into houses before they are bought. By integrating ABB and SMA products into SmartThings Energy, homes can become even safer, smarter and more sustainable. For example, the ability to run appliances at the optimum time, tracking energy use to adjust consumption based on energy prices and usage patterns, and optimising energy use based on solar production.

^{[1] Conducted in conjunction with Opinium amongst 2,500 adults from the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Polled between the 28th of July and the 1st of August 2023.}

^{[2] Source – Omdia “TV Sets Spotlight Service / TV Sets Market Tracker, Q4 2022”, Jan 2023. Results are not an endorsement of Samsung. Any reliance on these results is at the third party’s own risk}

^{[3] GreenMatch. https://www.greenmatch.co.uk/blog/energy-prices-europe}

^{[4] Conducted in conjunction with Opinium amongst 2,500 adults from the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Polled between the 28th of July and the 1st of August 2023.}

^{[5] Based on internal testing on the WW11BB944AGB model on a Cotton 40 degrees wash with the AI Energy Mode turned on (reducing the temperature) compared to not using AI Energy Mode. AI Energy Mode can only be operated at 40 degrees or lower.}

^{[6] Galaxy Z Flip5: 15 device components that feature a minimum of 10% post-consumer recycled material plastic, a minimum of 28% pre-consumer recycled aluminium, or Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 with an average of 22% pre-consumer recycled content. These components include Volume Key Bracket, Speaker Module (Upper & Lower), Rear Top, Display Connector Cap, FPCB RF Cable Bracket, Rear Mid, Case Front (Main), Case Front (Sub), Volume Key, Finger Key Bracket, Receiver Deco, Connector to Connector Holder, SIM Tray, Sub Window, Back Glass.}

^{[7] Galaxy Z Fold5: 15 device components that feature a minimum of 10% post-consumer recycled material plastic, a minimum of 28% pre-consumer recycled aluminium, or Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 with an average of 22% pre-consumer recycled glass. These components include Volume Key FPCB Bracket, Top Speaker Module (Upper & Lower), Bottom Speaker Module (Upper & Lower), Cover Display Connector, Case Front (Main), Case Front (Sub), Antenna (Sub), Antenna (Main), Volume Key, Finger Key Bracket, SIM Tray, Connector to Connector Holder, Camera Deco (Top & Bottom), Sub Window, Back Glass.}

^{[8] Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: 17 device components that feature a minimum of 10% post-consumer recycled material plastic, a minimum of 30% pre-consumer recycled aluminium, or pre-consumer recycled aluminium and Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 with a minimum of 10% pre-consumer recycled content. These components include Cable Holder Mid, Deco Pen Charger, Top-left Speaker Module, Top-right Speaker Module, Bottom-left Speaker Module, Bottom-right Speaker Module, Case Rear, Case Bracket, Key Bracket, PCB Support Top, PCB Support Mid, Cable Holder Bottom, SIM Tray, Volume Key, Side Key, Camera Deco, Main Window.}

^{[9] 100% recycled paper is used in the following packaging components: the Product Packaging Unit Box, Cover Protector, Manual Box, Manual Pad, and DLC Band.}

^{[10] Conducted in conjunction with Opinium amongst 2,500 adults from the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Polled between the 28th of July and the 1st of August 2023.}

^{[11] Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: 17 device components that feature a minimum of 10% post-consumer recycled material plastic, a minimum of 30% pre-consumer recycled aluminium, or pre-consumer recycled aluminium and Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 with a minimum of 10% pre-consumer recycled content. These components include Cable Holder Mid, Deco Pen Charger, Top-left Speaker Module, Top-right Speaker Module, Bottom-left Speaker Module, Bottom-right Speaker Module, Case Rear, Case Bracket, Key Bracket, PCB Support Top, PCB Support Mid, Cable Holder Bottom, SIM Tray, Volume Key, Side Key, Camera Deco, Main Window.}

^{[12] 100% recycled paper is used in the following packaging components: the Product Packaging Unit Box, Cover Protector, Manual Box, Manual Pad and DLC Band.}

^{[13] 13 Conducted in conjunction with Opinium amongst 2,500 adults from the U.K., France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Polled between the 28th of July and the 1st of August 2023.}