Technology is redefining how people live, with homes across East Africa increasingly transforming from simple living spaces into intelligent environments that anticipate and respond to everyday needs.
According to Samsung Electronics East Africa, the shift toward hyper-connectivity is being driven by artificial intelligence and the growing adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT), allowing devices across the home to communicate and work together seamlessly.
Smartphones at the Centre of the Smart Home
At the heart of this connected ecosystem is the new Samsung Galaxy S26 series, which the company describes as its most advanced AI-powered smartphone yet.
Through the SmartThings platform, the smartphone functions as the central control hub for smart homes, enabling users to manage and automate multiple devices remotely. For instance, the phone can detect when a user is nearing home and automatically activate appliances such as the Samsung WindFree Air Conditioner to cool the living room before arrival.
Samsung says the integration of “agentic AI” allows devices to learn users’ routines and respond proactively, turning the smartphone into what the company calls the “conductor of the smart home.”
AI-Powered Appliances Transform Everyday Living
Beyond smartphones, Samsung is expanding artificial intelligence across household appliances through its Bespoke AI range.
The Samsung Bespoke AI Family Hub
Refrigerator now incorporates AI Vision technology that can identify stored ingredients, track expiry dates and suggest recipes based on available food items. Once a recipe is selected on a smartphone, instructions can be sent directly to the Samsung Bespoke AI Oven, which automatically preheats to the required temperature.
In the laundry space, the Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Combo uses built-in sensors to detect fabric weight and dirt levels, adjusting water and detergent usage automatically to optimise washing cycles.
Samsung says the goal is to simplify daily routines by allowing appliances to handle tasks autonomously.
Sustainability
Through Smart Energy Management
As connectivity expands across the region, Samsung says energy efficiency remains a key priority.
Using AI Energy Mode within the SmartThings ecosystem, consumers can monitor and manage real-time energy consumption through their Galaxy devices. The system helps reduce electricity usage while maintaining appliance performance.
The company notes that such solutions are particularly relevant in East Africa, where countries are increasingly investing in renewable energy and digital infrastructure.
Open Ecosystems and Enhanced Security
Samsung is also focusing on interoperability, supporting global connectivity standards such as Matter smart home standard to ensure devices from different brands can work together.
Security remains a core component of the ecosystem, with all connected devices protected by Samsung Knox, the company’s defence-grade security platform designed to safeguard user data across devices.
Samsung says the combination of AI, IoT and open connectivity standards is shaping a future where homes are not just connected, but intelligent, adaptive and secure.