Samsung’s 2016 smart TV line to be IoT ready

Samsung’s entire 2016 smart TV line-up will be Internet of Things (IoT) ready and connected with the SmartThings platform, the firm has announced.

New IoT hub technology will allow viewers to use the smart TVs to control the entire smart home, with SmartThings acting as an open platform that lets users to connect, manage and control smart devices and IoT services.

Samsung said that the TVs will be able to connect with and control more than 200 SmartThings-compatible devices, including connected lights, locks, thermostats and cameras from a range of third party manufacturers.

“The 2016 line-up of smart TVs will offer consumers new possibilities and cement Samsung’s market leading position, as the first company to launch IoT ready TVs,” said Hyun Suk Kim, president of Samsung Electronics’ visual display business.

Alex Hawkinson, CEO and co-founder of SmartThings, added: “With Samsung Smart TVs working with the SmartThings technology, we have an opportunity to reach millions of households. Applying this technology into current household devices is a major step forwards that will make it much easier for everyone to experience the benefits of a smart home.”

Samsung will showcase the new IoT-compatible TVs at the Consumer Electonics show in Los Vegas this week.