Samsung Electronics will showcase its vision for AI-powered Connected Care at VivaTech 2026, running June 17-20 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

Under the theme “Open Invitation to Healthier Tomorrow,” the company will demonstrate how intelligent, connected experiences can support more proactive and preventive approaches to wellness.

Celebrating its 10th edition this year, VivaTech is Europe’s largest startup and tech event dedicated to spotlighting innovative solutions and addressing social challenges. This year’s exhibition is expected to bring together more than 4,000 companies— from established global tech firms to emerging startups — to foster partnerships, investment and collaboration.

Organised around the theme “Artificial Intelligence: Impact, Not Illusion,” VivaTech 2026 will examine the industry’s transition into the full-fledged AI era. Global companies are set to present AI solutions across eight sub-themes: Productivity Reimagined; Sovereignty & Ethics; Energy, GreenTech & Mobility; Cybersecurity & Defense; Health & Longevity; Risk, Build, Scale; Creative Industries; and Tech Beyond the Obvious.

Through open innovation, Samsung has worked to integrate AI seamlessly into customers’ daily lives. Participation in VivaTech reflects its commitment to build a broader ecosystem that spans industry leaders and startups alike. With wellness and long-term vitality growing in strategic importance, Samsung and its partners will present a range of services and solutions, including integrated health management through Samsung Health, as well as innovations in longevity and pet care.

Attendees will also get a glimpse of health capabilities expected to roll out across Samsung’s connected ecosystem of mobile phones, wearables and services.

On June 19, Samsung will take part in a panel discussion exploring the future of AI-driven health experiences and the role of connected ecosystems in enabling personalised wellness at scale.

Together with its partners, Samsung will arrive at VivaTech 2026 with a shared aspiration: Inspiring a Healthier Tomorrow.

The visit marked the latest milestone for Generation17, an initiative established in 2020 between Samsung and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to equip young changemakers with the technology, mentorship, and networking opportunities to amplify their stories and solutions.

Generation17 members gather at Samsung Digital City.

Galaxy Tech Driving Real-World Impact

At Samsung Digital City in Suwon, conversations highlighted how tools such as the Samsung Global Goals app and AI can turn innovative ideas into scalable, real-world impact. Held alongside personal mentoring sessions, these discussions deepened participants’ understanding of Samsung’s sustainability commitments, expanded their networks and reinforced their pride in the Generation17 community.

The weeklong program featured a dynamic mix of interactive sessions on topics including Galaxy for the Planet, Samsung’s brand philosophy and the future of AI. Throughout the sessions, the Young Leaders engaged directly with senior leadership on how technology can shape a more sustainable future.

The Young Leaders also participated in a Samsung Global Goals app workshop. This was designed as a collaborative, workshop-style session to explore how the Samsung Global Goals app can better support awareness, engagement, and impact, while allowing members to contribute ideas for its future development.

Generation17 members collaborating at the Samsung Global Goals app workshop.

These experiences fostered meaningful connections across the broader Samsung ecosystem and reinforced the collective impact and potential of the Generation17 community.

“I see technology as a tool. Its possibilities are endless,” said Generation17 member Efe Johnson. “It can help amplify impact, connection, and accessibility. I’ve already seen its importance in my work so far, and as I transition more fully into advocacy, I know technology will continue playing a major role in storytelling, community building, education, and reaching people across borders.”

Fellow Generation17 member José Francisco Ochoa added, “The tour gave me a deeper understanding of Samsung’s vision for innovation, sustainability, and social impact. It allowed me to see not only what Samsung creates, but also the values, people, culture, and long-term thinking behind the company.”

Hands-On Collaboration With the UNDP

In partnership with the UNDP, the Young Leaders also had the opportunity to join local innovators, entrepreneurs and students for a youth engagement session and mini-innovation sprint. The hands-on session focused on finding tech-enabled solutions to challenges related to digital inclusion, sustainability and equity.

Throughout the exercise, the Generation17 members shared perspectives on how cross-sector partnerships can help amplify youth-led innovation and drive meaningful change.

“It’s imperative to understand multiple perspectives since it makes it harder to then play the blame game,” said Generation17 member Soumya Dabriwal. “Samsung and UNDP coming together is one of the most unique cross sectoral partnerships that I have come across and it gives me a lot of hope and inspiration.”

The Generation17 team at the mini-innovation sprint co-hosted by UNDP.

Cultural Immersion and Reflection

The Young Leaders wrapped up the week in Seoul, enjoying a range of cultural experiences including a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace where they tried on traditional Korean clothing.

Marking the one-year anniversary of the fifth cohort of the Young Leaders, the trip provided opportunities for new connections, shared learning and conversations on the future of the Generation17 community.

“Representing Generation17 in a global setting like this means a lot to me because I am not only representing myself and my own work, but also the impact created within my community and the challenges that many young people face,” explained Generation17 member Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh.

“It is an opportunity to share our stories, ideas and solutions on a global platform while expanding the reach and influence of the work we are doing. It also gives me the chance to inspire others, connect with different experiences and perspectives, and show how youth led initiatives can create meaningful change toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Learn more about Generation17 here: https://www.undp.org/generation17

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the winners of its sixth annual Solve for Tomorrow competition, which aims to uncover the most promising tech inventions from young people, by asking students aged 11–18 to come up with ideas that help solve real-world problems.

This year’s competition entries showcased the passion young people have for future innovation and their drive to design a better world – exploring how technology can solve the issues they care about the most, while tackling broader societal challenges.

Darcy-Ella, Flo, Indy, and Rosie of team The Plant Enforcers were announced as the winners in the 11 – 14 age category. The team, from Norfolk, England, designed an app for a greener future that encourages young people to explore nature and start their own gardens. It helps users discover and learn about plant species and earn points to care for a virtual pet.

Meanwhile, in the 14 – 16 age category, Nell of team AsthmaSense, hailing from County Limerick, Ireland, was announced in first place. AsthmaSense is an early-warning system that predicts the risk of an asthma attack by monitoring local air quality. The device links to an app and alerts users so they can take action before an attack develops.

The 16 – 18 age category saw Devansh of team The Green Cross take first place. Devansh, from London, England, designed a handheld medical device that scans wound sites to monitor their healing. It supports more accurate remote wound assessment, helping clinicians make better treatment decisions while reducing the need for follow up appointments.

Entries this year ranged from an adaptive operating system that ‘grows’ with young people to help keep them safer online, to drones that sense pollutants to identify illegal dumping sites.

In addition to these winners, Sophie from The PAI Project won the People’s Choice Award. Voted for by nearly 1,000 people on Samsung UK’s social channels, Sophie designed an app that uses satellite imaging and predictive AI to help protect marine habitats and resources from illegal fishing.

Nine finalist teams were shortlisted by a panel of Samsung and industry experts who reviewed submissions from 2,185 eligible applicants across the country. 984 teams took part in a programme of design thinking, market research and a newly introduced physical prototyping workshop. Throughout the process, they also received mentoring, support and guidance from Samsung colleagues to help bring their ideas to life.

The programme follows statistics released that show over 200,000* UK teens identify as founders, representing a seismic shift in how young people approach the world of work today. Young innovators are turning to tech to tackle real-world problems, with 15% of teen entrepreneurs citing this as their primary inspiration.

Yet, 90% of UK teens say they face barriers preventing them from growing or starting their own business, inhibiting their ability to turn their ambition into a force for societal good. The Solve for Tomorrow programme exists to prove that young people from all walks of life can come up with ideas that can make a difference in the world through the use of technology.

Finalist teams were invited to Samsung KX to showcase their ideas and formally pitch to a panel of judges formed of leaders from Samsung and its partners ,Tech She Can, Design Council, D&T Association and Internet Matters. This was followed by the annual Solve for Tomorrow awards ceremony, where the winners were crowned.

Speaking about this year’s Solve for Tomorrow competition, Soohyun Jessie Park, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Samsung Electronics UK, said: “Solve for Tomorrow continues to empower young people to reflect on what truly matters to them, whilst simultaneously channelling their passion into tangible action. We speak to young people every day as part of the programme, and their drive and passion to make the world a better place through technology is awe-inspiring. The standard of entries continues to climb, and we can’t wait to see where our winners go next and the impact their inventions have on society.”

The Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy Mete Coban said: “It was a pleasure to attend the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow awards in London and meet young people with such inspiring ideas. From building a greener future, to making sport more inclusive and helping young people stay safe online, their innovative ideas show the powerful role young people play in shaping a better future for all of us.

“Technology is part of everyday life and a positive driver of change, with a vital role to play in London’s journey to net zero – helping ensure no one is left behind or disproportionately affected by climate change, as we build a fairer, greener city for everyone.”

Devansh, from The Green Cross (16-18s winner), said: “It was a really eye-opening experience – I got to talk to so many people about how I could design something to make their life better. I had no experience in med tech before, but with the people around me I really wanted to solve a problem that mattered. I’ve learned how to present, how to sell an idea, and to put myself out there – things I hadn’t done before. My advice to anyone thinking of entering next year: just go for it. As long as you have a genuine passion for it, you are good enough. It’s a really fulfilling experience, and if it doesn’t work out, it’s okay – it’s a learning process.”

Mr Noonan, Devansh’s teacher, said: “When they get the opportunity to work on problems like the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition have provided them with, all of a sudden they can see the value of their ideas. They can see the types of problems that they’re solving, the benefit that it can bring to society, but they can also see how all of a sudden their creativity and their innovation can be modelled on those heroes that they have.

“So I think that’s the first degree, they can see that pathway to emulating some of their heroes. And then the second thing is just that confidence to know that they can solve problems. They might have the skill set in terms of the technical knowledge or being able to sketch or draw or plan or map out, but to be actually able to put that skill set to use, to have the mindset, the creativity, I think the resilience to be able to solve problems and stick with the process, have been really, really transformative through this.

“For young people today, I think it gives them great confidence to know that they can solve the problems that we face every day in our lives. The world is such a challenging place, and young people sometimes feel helpless, but being able to engage with a competition like Samsung Solve for Tomorrow shows them how they can make a difference.”

More details on how to enter the next Solve for Tomorrow competition will be announced later this year.

For more information on Solve for Tomorrow visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/solvefortomorrow/

*Teen founder estimates were calculated by applying a 5-6% variable to ONS population data for 14-18-year-olds, sourced from Statista (2022).

An Open Laboratory for Design Exploration

Conceived as an open laboratory, the exhibition welcomes visitors to Samsung’s design approach, offering a space of exploration, experimentation and discovery. Rather than a finished statement, the exhibition reflects a moment within an ongoing journey, offering an early glimpse into how Samsung is shaping new ways of living through design.

Each of the 12 immersive zones presents a distinct exploration of how design can shape everyday life. The zones are organised around the key experience dimensions of Human Centricity and Expressive Design, which serve as the first touchpoint in showcasing Samsung Design’s vision.

Within these zones, a series of creative explorations illustrates ideas, possibilities and future directions. Through this approach, Samsung Design is making its vision tangible, inviting visitors to engage with design as an evolving, human-centered practice.

Human-Centricity and Expressive Design

Samsung Design is expanding its approach beyond user experience, with a greater focus on how people live and experience everyday life.

“Design should reflect the diversity of humanity — embracing different lifestyles, values and ways people live,” said Mauro Porcini, President and Chief Design Officer (CDO) of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “It is not only about creating products, but about shaping experiences that feel relevant, personal and meaningful in everyday life. Through Samsung Design Open Lab, we are sharing how this thinking is shaping our approach to design and future living.”

At the core of Samsung’s vision is a human-centered approach to AI – captured through the formula AI x (EI+HI)-where its true value lies not in the technology itself, but in how it is guided by human intention, empathy and imagination.

While the exhibition explores new directions in design, it reflects a philosophy that has guided Samsung for over 30 years – placing people at the center of innovation. The ideas presented extend that foundation, translating it into new and evolving ways of living.

Design Is an Act of Love, With 12 Immersive Zones

More than 120 products across 36 categories are being showcased at the exhibition’s 12 zones, spanning both design concepts and products currently available in the market.

Highlights from the exhibition include:

• The Welcome Show: A coordinated display experience introducing Samsung’s vision for AI as a unified system that brings together personal and shared AI across devices and environments.

• Unfold Your Story: An exploration of Galaxy’s foldable design across a spectrum of colour, form and experience, capturing diverse lifestyles and new ways to live, create and connect.

• Wearable & Culinary Intelligence: Design explorations that respond to diverse lifestyles, ranging from personal devices such as wearables to connected kitchen and living environments.

• Transparent Symphony & All That Music: Immersive audio-visual zones featuring transparent speakers and screens with Music Studio 5 and 7 and a range of concept designs, where diverse elements come together in harmony and music translates analog emotion into a cohesive digital experience.

• Two Expressions of the Same Technology: Two distinct design expressions of a 130-inch Micro RGB display, built on the same breakthrough technology, demonstrating how performance and individuality can coexist.

• Artful Living: A vision of living where screens become expressive mediums of personality, culture and emotion, bringing artwork and content to life in more immersive ways through S95H OLED TV with new forms of AI-enabled storytelling.

• The Goodbye Show: Returning from the Welcome Show, the shared AI companion concludes the exhibition through natural, AI-driven interactions and a sensory performance of music, light, and human touch – fostering emotional connection and a sense of presence in everyday life.

Samsung’s “Design is an Act of Love” exhibition is located at Superstudio Più, Via Tortona 27, in Milan and offers free entry, on the following dates:

• April 20, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• April 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• April 22, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• April 23-25, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• April 26, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more news, photos and videos, please visit Samsung Newsroom and Samsung Design during Milan Design Week 2026.

The newly introduced features in Samsung SmartThings Family Care service includes Care On Call, Care Insight, and Safe Patrol

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that it has updated its global smart home platform SmartThings to provide improved experiences that help users better care for their families and themselves in everyday life.

With the latest update, SmartThings has strengthened its Family Care service so users can better support parents they live apart from. It also integrates additional key SmartThings features into Now Brief, the personalised briefing service available on Galaxy mobile devices, to further enhance the convenience and comfort of the customer’s daily life. Samsung plans to roll out these new Now Brief capabilities to TVs and Family Hub refrigerators in phases.

“Samsung’s AI technology goes beyond everyday convenience to help users care for themselves and their families with greater peace of mind,” said Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of the SmartThings Team, AI Platform Center, Samsung Electronics. “SmartThings will continue to strengthen its role as a platform that seamlessly connects customers’ daily lives with AI, and it will keep expanding differentiated services on an ongoing basis.”

Enhanced Family Care Makes It Easier To Check In on Loved Ones

Family Care connects SmartThings with a range of home appliances and mobile devices to provide notifications regarding the activities of users’ ageing parents and reminders for medication and hospital visits — as well as location-based alerts. With this update, the service enables even more thoughtful care.

Additionally, Samsung’s new Care on Call^[1] feature allows users to more closely check on the status of the care recipient through a simple phone call. When a caregiver using the service calls the care recipient, a floating pop-up that displays key information like the time of the first activity of the day, the most recent activity time and the local weather — all at a glance — appears before the call begins. This helps caregivers ask more meaningful check-in questions and respond accordingly.

SmartThings can also continuously monitor devices like air conditioners, air purifiers, dehumidifiers and humidifiers for indoor temperature, humidity and air quality. If unusual usage patterns are detected, the caregiver is immediately notified and can remotely control the relevant device.^[2]

Family Care has made the Safety Patrol feature — which utilises SmartThings to send a new Bespoke AI Jet Bot Steam Ultra to check various areas around the house — even more convenient. If the care recipient’s activity is not detected for a specified period of time, users receive a notification and the feature can be remotely activated if the caregiver needs to take action.^[3] Using a camera built into the robot vacuum, caregivers can view issues that might occur — such as a person lying incapacitated — and two-way communication through the built-in speaker and microphone allows them to act.

To further enhance the level of care provided to loved ones, the Care Insight feature been enhanced to provide even more actionable, long-term data within the Family Care service. It analyses factors like temperature and humidity levels, paying attention to whether they deviate from optimal ranges. It also tracks significant changes in activity levels and connected device usage compared to the previous week.

Expansion of Now Brief to TVs and Family Hub

Now Brief^[4] delivers a rich AI experience by integrating a broad range of key SmartThings services that help users stay informed about their daily lives, their family members and conditions inside and outside the home.

With the launch of the Galaxy S26 series, Now Brief will support Home Security, Family Care and Pet Care, in addition to existing features that include Home Insight, Energy and the Sleep Environment Report. Through Now Brief, users can access the useful information needed to care for themselves, their families and their homes at a glance.

Now Brief is set to deliver a consistent customised experience throughout the home,^[5] and will soon roll out in phases to TVs launched in 2024 or later, as well as Family Hub refrigerators launched in 2021 or later.

For added convenience, users will not need to manually launch Now Brief. If the feature is set up in advance, it will be automatically activated when they approach the TV, touch the Family Hub refrigerator screen or open and close the refrigerator door.

And now, whether at home or on the go, the expanded Now Brief helps users stay up to date by providing information such as home device status and energy usage, as well as the sleep status of the previous night, Home Security updates based on door locks, door sensors, and security mode, parents’ daily activity updates and dog-walking information.^[6]

The various features of SmartThings are now integrated into the Now Brief of Samsung Galaxy mobile phones, and users can also easily check this information on the TV screen.

[1]Care on Call is available on Galaxy smartphones running One UI 8.5 or later. Internet calls are not supported.

[2]Remote control is available when the caregiver has been set up to remotely control the care recipient’s devices.

[3]Remote control is available when the caregiver has been set up to remotely control the care recipient’s devices. Availability may vary depending on product, model and region.

[4]Samsung account login and network connection required.

[5] Availability may vary depending on product, model, region, and each product’s Over The Network (OTN) software update schedule.

[6]The relevant devices should be registered in SmartThings, and the service must be activated in the Life tab.

MDW26_KV_FINAL_0210

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that it will host an exhibition titled “Design is an Act of Love” at Milan Design Week 2026. Immersive in nature, the exhibition will explore the Human Side of Tech through a dialogue between experimental concepts and the latest commercial products.

The exhibition takes the form of Samsung Design Open Lab, a space imagined as a laboratory for exploration, experimentation and discovery. Within the space, Samsung invites visitors to explore how ideas take shape, offering a glimpse of how human-centered and expressive design can transform technology into a more personal, emotional and meaningful presence in everyday life.

What visitors experience in Milan represents a moment in an ongoing journey — an early expression of how Samsung is reimagining the relationship between technology and everyday life, as well as a signal of the direction in which its design vision is headed.

As part of the program, Samsung will host a Design Talk session in collaboration with Dezeen on April 22, where it will share perspectives on the evolving relationship between design and humanity.

This year’s International Women’s Day is centred around the theme of ‘Give To Gain’, celebrating the power of support and generosity. What does this mean to you?

The theme of ‘Give To Gain’ resonates deeply with me. At Samsung, I’ve experienced the transformative power of support by investing in each other.

We create a two-way culture of trust and growth that benefits everyone, for now and for the future. We actively encourage our colleagues to ‘pay it forward’— a principle that aligns perfectly with this year’s theme.

An example of this is our CSR team’s partnership with Benevity, where every SEUK employee is entitled to three paid volunteering days, allowing us to give back to our communities while fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Through all of our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), we aim to create opportunities to support each other, to acknowledge what is going well and to collaborate on moving the dial in areas where we need to improve.

Whether it’s through mentorship, advocacy, or simply being there for one another, we believe that giving generously creates a ripple effect of positive change.

Looking back, has there been a defining moment that changed how you saw your own potential or what you were capable of?

I have two defining moments that reshaped my understanding of my potential. The first was when I stepped away from a 20-year career as a professional dancer, unsure of what my future held. With little confidence in my next steps, I took a leap of faith and started my own business, supporting other mums with young children by providing them with Virtual Assistant work, to fit around family life.

At the time, this concept was still very new, but it allowed me to channel my skills and creativity into something meaningful. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability.

The second defining moment came when I joined Samsung. Initially, my confidence was not at a high level, but everything changed when a manager told me how much she believed in me. Her trust in my abilities gave me the courage to take on new challenges and expand my role within the company.

Additionally, a mentor helped me recognise my talents and appreciate my own potential. This journey taught me that true drive comes from within, feeling comfortable in your own skill and to have belief in your skills and qualities rather than what you think might impress others.

Is there an idea or value that has guided you throughout your career, and why has this been so important to you?

The value of trust has been central to my career. I trust people until they give me a reason not to. In addition to trust, navigation has been a core skill that has helped me progress. I’ve learned to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and take accountability for my growth.

This mindset has allowed me to adapt to different roles and responsibilities throughout my career, from starting as an EA and Admin team manager to growing into roles in Internal Comms, Events, Inclusion, and Health & Wellbeing.

I also believe in ‘equity for all’ and that ‘meritocracy’ must come first. These principles have been essential in creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.

Can you share an experience where you had to push past a challenge or bias in your career, and what it taught you about leadership?

One of the most challenging experiences in my career occurred when a previous manager, from many moons back, created a negative and highly intense working environment, which was impacting my team.

When I addressed my concerns, I was told to “be more like a man,” a comment that initially shook me. However, I quickly responded by sharing my views on what it means to be a good leader, emphasising that gender is irrelevant to leadership effectiveness. I made it clear that empathy and understanding were not weaknesses but strengths that fostered collaboration and trust within my team.

This experience taught me the importance of not only standing up for myself but also advocating for a positive and inclusive workplace culture. It also highlighted the need in my view for managers to be held accountable for their leadership capabilities.

As a single mum, I’ve faced additional challenges, balancing personal and professional responsibilities. I don’t see work and home life as separate; they are intrinsically linked.

My experience reinforced my belief that true leadership is about fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. It also strengthened my commitment to addressing biases and promoting equity in the workplace.

How do you support or mentor others in your team, and can you share an example of something that’s made a real difference for women at Samsung?

I actively mentor team members by encouraging them to be open about their aspirations. Supporting my team is not just a responsibility; it’s a position of honour. I believe that how my team feels at the end of each day is a reflection of the environment I want to help create and importantly, maintain.

One of the most impactful ways I’ve supported women at Samsung is by co-founding Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in the UK and in our European Office. The Black Lives Matter movement brought a harsh reality to our lives during difficult moments across the world, and also highlighted to me the importance of giving our colleagues a voice across all demographics. This led to the creation of the Women@Samsung ERG, which has grown from strength to strength over the past five years.

Through the group of strong women, we have addressed inequities, evolved our parental leave policies, and introduced a menopause policy. We’ve also partnered with Women@Tech to help raise the impact of equality initiatives within the tech industry, and helped promote the policy of increased flexible working options.

Our deep focus on creating opportunities for women has made a tangible difference in fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

Who or what inspires you today to continue pushing boundaries, and how does that influence the way you approach your work?

I’m inspired by the amazing women around me; my colleagues (especially the People Team) mentors, mentees, my coach and I have to mention my two wonderful teenage daughters Matilda and Delilah, who demonstrate and teach me more about resilience, creativity, and vulnerability every day. Their views, understanding and dedication – to the importance of driving change – motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in my work and career.

I also draw inspiration from external figures like Brené Brown and Jacinda Ardern. Brené Brown’s work on courage and empathy resonates deeply with me. Her insights have shaped my understanding of leadership as an act of connection and authenticity. Jacinda Ardern, with her compassionate and inclusive approach to leadership, also serves as a powerful example of how to lead with empathy and integrity.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received as a woman working in tech, and why has it stayed with you?

The advice that has stayed with me is to “trust yourself and your abilities.” This piece of wisdom has been crucial in navigating challenges and making decisions with confidence. It reminds me to believe in my potential and not be afraid to take risks or step out of my comfort zone.

In the tech industry, where biases and challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, this advice serves as a constant reminder to stay true to myself and my values.

What personal or professional goals are you most excited to pursue in the future?

I am excited about the future of the journey at Samsung, particularly in addressing discrimination in the workplace. This focus has the potential to take our efforts to new heights, fostering deeper understanding, tolerance, and education across the organisation. I am eager to continue to work with the global D&I team on future objectives, collaborating with my colleagues around the world to support their local endeavours and ensure that our initiatives are inclusive, impactful and aligned.

Looking ahead, I will continue advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion. Whether it’s through mentorship, education, or collaboration, I am committed to supporting the next generation of leaders and ensuring that everyone at Samsung feels valued and empowered.

What small actions can each of us take daily to create meaningful change?

Small actions like actively listening to others, offering support when needed, and advocating for inclusive practices can create meaningful change. Taking a pause before making decisions, especially regarding team progression or opportunities, ensures fairness and consideration. Everyday gestures of kindness and encouragement can have a lasting impact on individuals and teams.

Finally, please talk about how the Women@Samsung team are looking into the next five years, what do you feel will drive you all to continue to impact change and shape more role models within the next generation of female leadership at Samsung?

The Women@Samsung team is focused on attracting, retaining, and developing the amazing female talent we have at Samsung. Over the next five years, we aim to expand mentorship programs, amplify women’s voices through initiatives like International Women’s Day, and drive policies that support work-life balance. Our commitment to ‘Give To Gain’ will continue to inspire us to support one another and shape more role models for future generations of female leaders at Samsung.

To learn more about Samsung’s global Equality initiatives, please go to: https://www.samsung.com/global/sustainability/people/diversity-inclusion/

Founded in 1953 as Die Gute Industrieform e.V., the iF Design Awards evaluates a comprehensive range of factors, including differentiation and impact, across a total of nine disciplines: Product Design, Packaging Design, Communication Design, Interior Architecture, Professional Concept, Service Design, Architecture, User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI).

“Today, design goes far beyond products or user interfaces. It shapes meaningful experiences that resonate with People.” said Mauro Porcini, President and Chief Design Officer of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics.“Human-centered design will remain at the heart of our efforts -deepening immersion and advancing responsible innovation.”

Two Gold Awards Recognise Designs that Enrich People’s Lives

Music Studio 5, at first glance is a classic rectangular speaker, but a closer look reveals its unique details such as the finely perforated grille that conceals the high performing audio units. Dynamic front lighting helps the user easily identify key functions and the timeless design integrates seamlessly into any space while capturing the elegance of an objet d’art. Yet the shape is novel and pure, signaling an expressive presence in the room. Music Studio 5 can also connect to a Samsung TV through the novel Q-Symphony wireless interface resulting in a true cinema-like experience at home.

Advanced Design Concepts for Appliance Accessories – named as ‘Samsung Home Appliances Accessories’ designated three colours for accessories such as filters for vacuum cleaner and air purifiers – depending on their maintenance requirements and disposal methods. Through this design improvement, users can more easily recognise the needs of their accessories, especially if they have changed or been updated.

77 Awards Ranging From TVs to Home Appliances to Smartphones

Other products and services that were recognised for design excellence include One UI 7 user interface that brings AI-driven enhancement with a bold new design for greater personalisation and control to the user experience and Home Insight’, a smart home feature that analyses appliance status and user patterns to recommend optimal, personalised solutions.

• The S95H OLED, a TV that features an ultra-slim, bezel-free design that resembles a high-end picture frame mounted on the wall

• The Movingstyle, a lifestyle screen that follows you• Vision AI TV, an AI interface that adapts to your context

• Spatial signage’, a glasses-free 3D display that delivers an immersive visual experience

• Galaxy Z Fold7, the most advanced Galaxy Z series yet, seamlessly blending precision engineering and powerful intelligence to elevate everyday interactions, all in its thinnest and lightest design to date.

Other products and services that were recognised for design excellence include One UI 7 user interface that brings AI-driven enhancement with a bold new design for greater personalisation and control to the user experience and Home Insight’, a smart home feature that analyses appliance status and user patterns to recommend optimal, personalised solutions.

Samsung Electronics’ 77 awards is showcasing our human-centric design philosophy and how technology can become an enabler for living better, longer, loud and living on. The manifestation of the human side of technology.

The announcement was made in Milan, where the ambassador program announcement was held in conjunction with the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The three-day program ran from Feb. 8–10 and including an appointment ceremony, a solution exhibition and networking activities.

Solve for Tomorrow is Samsung’s global problem-solving platform that supports young people in developing innovative STEM-based solutions to address local and global challenges. This year’s global ambassadors were selected from winning teams of Solve for Tomorrow regional competitions around the world, with the final selection being made through a joint evaluation by Samsung and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) based on the innovation, scalability and social impact of each solution. The 10 selected teams are divided into two focus areas — Sport & Tech, and Accessibility & Environment — with five teams chosen in each category.

As part of the Ambassador program, each selected team will receive funding, along with up to two years of continued support from Samsung to help transform their prototypes into commercially viable products. Five teams in the Sport & Tech category will be jointly supported by Samsung and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Raye Woon who represented Team CuraStep from the UK as a Samsung Solve For Tomorrow Ambassador in Sport & Tech said “It is incredibly rewarding to see our idea represented on a global stage and how far we’ve come in our mission to help diabetic patients worldwide. The Solve for Tomorrow community is extraordinary, and I’m delighted to be a part of it. As an ambassador, I look forward to championing the next generation of tech-for-good leaders!”

Sustainable Innovation in Sport & Tech

Held under the theme “Sport & Tech,” the aim of Samsung’s 2026 Ambassador program is to empower youth to drive sustainable innovation through the intersection of sports, technology and leadership. The official appointment ceremony took place at Samsung House in Milan and was attended by approximately 80 global stakeholders, including IOC President Kirsty Coventry; Jae Youl Kim, IOC Executive Board Member and President of Samsung Global Research; Olympism 365 Commission Chair Auvita Rapilla; Olympism 365 Commission Member Nawal El Moutawakel; and Won-Jin Lee, President and Head of Global Marketing at Samsung Electronics.

Commitment moment in the appointment ceremony underscored the shared commitment of Samsung and the IOC to jointly nurturing future talent and empowering young people to help shape a better world. This commitment was brought to life through a stage performance in which the composite logos of both organizations were brought together by unfolding and overlapping the Galaxy Z TriFold, completing the visual composition. The act of opening the TriFold symbolically represented the expansion of ideas and potential, as well as the shared belief of Samsung and the IOC in opening new possibilities as young people step forward to lead the future.

“The projects are truly inspiring: full of creativity, imagination, and passion to make a real difference. You’re using technology to shape a future that is more inclusive, more sustainable, healthier and more active,” said IOC President Coventry. “I am especially excited to see the first-ever Sport & Tech winners — combining sport, technology, and problem-solving in ways that can truly change lives.”

“Through Solve for Tomorrow and our collaboration with the IOC, we are creating environments where young people can discover their strengths, express their ideas, and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Global Marketing Head Lee. “We are not only supporting innovation but also nurturing future leaders who will carry forward the values of excellence, respect, friendship — and creativity.”

Solution Exhibition and Innovation Workshop

On Feb. 9, the ambassador teams showcased the solutions they developed at Smart City Lab in Milan and attended an innovation-themed workshop led by the IOC’s Olympism365 Innovation Hub that will equip the ambassadors with the skills to be an innovator of sustainable development in the world of sports. The exhibition was attended by representatives from the IOC, the Milano Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee and various Italian government agencies.

Former Solve for Tomorrow UK winner and member of the first cohort of Solve Ambassadors, Ramneek Kaur Ahluwalia, exhibited her project, MyVision – a tech-forward mobility aid designed to empower people with visual impairments. Ramneek, who has a visual impairment herself said “Partnering with Samsung to bring MyVision to life has been an amazing experience. I am thrilled to showcase my first physical prototype, demonstrating how this technology can truly transform the lives of the visually impaired community globally.”

On Feb. 10, the ambassadors took part in a series of on-site programs and official activities, as well as a visit to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Village. Through these experiences, Samsung is supporting the ambassadors in deepening their understanding of sports, technology and the meaning of the Olympic Games and the Olympic spirit.

Details regarding the 10 newly selected Solve for Tomorrow Ambassador teams and their projects are as follows:

The Five Sport & Tech Ambassador Teams

Australia | TeamUp: Ahan Kiani
An AI-based platform that connects individuals with local sports teams and communities to increase participation in recreational sports.

Indonesia | Run Sight: Anthony Edbert Feriyanto, Kaindra Rizq Sachio, Muhammed Fazil Tirtana and Ariq Maulana Malki Ibrahim
A wearable AI solution that helps people with visual impairments safely participate in running and other physical activities by detecting lanes and obstacles.

Türkiye | Poseidon: Umut Devrim Deveci and Efe Cem Öztürk
A swimming safety system for visually impaired users that provides vibration alerts through a wristband when approaching boundaries or obstacles.

Great Britain | Curastep: Raye Woon and Sarah Xie
Smart sneakers equipped with sensors to detect early signs of blister formation in people with diabetes and encourage safe physical activity.

United States | Storm Shield: Danielle Yang, Sara Carmona, Isha Harbaugh, Koel Harbaugh, Audrey Adams, Nikki Beshkar and Emily Wang
A protective sports headband designed to shield hearing aids from moisture, impact and environmental damage during physical activity.

The Five Accessibility and Environment Ambassador Teams

China | Furen Makers: Chenyue Wang, Ziyang Ma, Qiuyue Wang and Hewei Wen
A brainwave-controlled wheelchair designed to support people with ALS and physical disabilities in mobility, rehabilitation and sports participation.

France | Liova: Simon Cénet and Evan Dessables
A reusable battery production kit that transforms discarded smartphone batteries into portable power banks to reduce electronic waste.

India | Paraspeak: Pranet Khetan
A cloud-based AI solution that converts unclear speech into clear pronunciation in real time for people with speech impairments.

Türkiye | Oilsorb: İrem Erden, Ece Deniz Sayar, Ela Aksoy and Meryem Melis Çınar
A sustainable oil spill response solution using reusable wool-based oil absorption pads and drone technology to address marine pollution.

United States | Aqua-Gel: Arya Anilkumar, Anna Huang, Aishwarya Reddy, Subiksha Srinivasan Vidya and Elaine Zuo
An AI-powered smart bandage that monitors wound healing in real time and supports early infection detection through sensor data.

Samsung Electronics Co. (UK) Ltd and online safety partner Internet Matters, welcomed students and their parents from Frank Barnes School for Deaf children, to join a free online safety workshop at Samsung KX. The workshop’s core focus this year was on AI, educating the students and their families on how to use AI safely and responsibly, and showcasing how AI can help them in their daily lives.

To mark Safer Internet Day on 10^th February, a global awareness day which Samsung has supported since 2017, families from Frank Barnes School joined Samsung and Internet Matters for an immersive learning experience where they got to see tech and AI in action, whilst learning how to take a human-centred approach to using AI.

Jessie Soohyun Park, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Samsung UK, said: “It was great to welcome families from Frank Barnes School to Samsung KX. This year’s Safer Internet Day theme – smart tech, safe choices – feels particularly relevant as AI increasingly becomes a part of how children learn, create and explore the digital world. We’re committed to continuing our collaborative work to help parents, guardians and educators have informed, practical conversations with young people about navigating AI safely and responsibly.”

Dani Sive, Headteacher at Frank Barnes School, commented on the workshop day: “The children, staff and families had such a fantastic morning at Samsung KX engaging in an informative presentation on AI and online safety, and a tour where they learnt more about AI, Samsung’s smart technology and devices. Thank you to the Samsung KX and Internet Matters team for having us and for organising such an engaging, educational and fun workshop for the children and their families, which clearly had a positive impact on their understanding of AI including the benefits and risks of using it safely. We look forward to further collaboration in the future.”

Rachel Huggins, CEO at Internet Matters also stated: “It was a pleasure to support Samsung’s AI workshop with students from Frank Barnes School and their parents this Safer Internet Day. AI brings many opportunities and benefits, however as children and young people increase their use of AI for schoolwork, advice and companionship, supporting the safe use of AI tools is vital. Internet Matters, with the support of our partners like Samsung, offers parents and carers a wide range of resources, across AI and other topics, to support them to help keep their children safe online.”

Samsung has partnered with Internet Matters since 2019 to develop The Online Together Project, a series of interactive educational tools to encourage open conversations about online safety between families, and in schools. The Online Together Project offers age-specific information and advice on topics such as tackling online hate, gender stereotypes online, and AI fact checking.

Samsung is committed to equipping parents, guardians and carers with the confidence and knowledge of device safety and online safety, to help ensure that families can enjoy technology safely. Find out more here.