Samsung Electronics announced its membership in the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA) together with other leading manufacturers in the smart home space, aiming to promote interoperability and greater safety.
Samsung Electronics is a founding member of the HCA along with Arçelik A.Ş., The Electrolux Group, Haier, GE Appliances and Trane Technologies. The alliance brings together leading manufacturers of connected devices to enhance the compatibility of smart appliances across brands. As part of the alliance, Samsung will work with other member companies to develop shared guidelines for cloud-to-cloud interoperability, accounting for data security and consumer safety requirements.
Samsung reports that its users would be able to operate and control appliances from other brands through its smart home platform SmartThings, making it simpler for consumers to integrate legacy and new devices into their connected homes. Alternatively, consumers will be able to access Samsung devices from other HCA member applications.
“We are pleased to have Samsung as one of the founding members of the Home Connectivity Alliance,” said Yoon Ho Choi, President of Home Connectivity Alliance. “It is the support of global manufacturers like Samsung that makes HCA uniquely qualified to establish interoperability guidelines for long-life appliances and systems in the home, ultimately delivering safe, simple and elegant consumer experiences.”
“As digital technology becomes more embedded in everyday life, we at Samsung believe that it’s essential to bring greater openness to our smart home ecosystem and empower consumers with more options to create truly personalized home experiences,” said Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President and Head of IoT Business Group at Samsung Electronics. “We are excited to work with other members of the HCA and will work to make home lifestyles easier and smarter with meaningful innovations in smart appliances and connectivity.”
Building on the partnerships fostered through the HCA, SmartThings will continue to deliver innovations that push the boundaries of smart devices, enabling more consumers to enjoy the benefits of connected living. From smart kitchen features to automated home cleaning and clothing care, SmartThings’ open platform could bring together a wide range of cutting-edge devices and services to offer a holistic smart home experience.
