Apple Watch Integration: Full Device Control
Device groups created in the SmartThings app are now accessible through the accompanying Apple Watch app. Users can:
- View their complete SmartThings device list
- Send commands to individual devices
- Trigger SmartThings routines
- Control device groups from their wrist
This integration eliminates the need to pull out an iPhone for basic smart home controls, making it easier to manage devices throughout the day.
Siri Shortcuts: Voice-Activated SmartThings Routines
SmartThings is gaining support for Siri Shortcut controls of SmartThings Routines. With this capability, SmartThings automations can be launched with Siri voice commands. The automations work similarly to HomeKit automations.
Example Routines
“Good Morning” Routine:
- Turn on bedroom lights
- Open smart blinds
- Start coffee machine
- Adjust thermostat
“Leaving Home” Routine:
- Lock all smart doors
- Turn off lights throughout the house
- Activate home security system
- Set thermostat to away mode
Activation: Simply say “Hey Siri, Good Morning” or “Hey Siri, Leaving Home” to trigger the full automation sequence.
Expanded Live Activities Support
The app already supported Live Activities, but this update expands the feature to support up to five recently used devices at a glance. Compatible devices include:
| Device Category | What You Can See |
|---|---|
| Air Conditioners | Current temperature, mode, power status |
| Robot Vacuums | Cleaning status, battery level, current location |
| Air Purifiers | Air quality index, filter status, fan speed |
| Dehumidifiers | Current humidity level, water tank status |
| Other Smart Devices | Device-specific status and controls |
Live Activities display on the iPhone lock screen and in Dynamic Island, providing quick access to device status without opening the app.
Multi-Ecosystem Households
Samsung emphasizes that these changes are particularly helpful for households with both Galaxy and Apple devices. The update bridges the gap between Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem and Apple’s iOS features, allowing users to:
- Control Samsung appliances using Apple’s native voice assistant
- Manage smart home devices from Apple Watch
- Monitor device status through iOS Lock Screen widgets
- Integrate SmartThings routines into existing Siri workflows
This cross-platform compatibility reduces friction for households that don’t exclusively use products from a single manufacturer.
What’s Required
Prerequisites
- iOS Device: iPhone running iOS 16.0 or later
- Apple Watch: watchOS 9.0 or later (for watch app features)
- SmartThings Account: Active Samsung SmartThings account
- Compatible Devices: SmartThings-enabled appliances or third-party devices connected to SmartThings hub
Availability and Download
The SmartThings app can be downloaded from the App Store for free. The update is rolling out now to all users.
Summary of New Features
What’s New in This Update:
- Siri Shortcuts: Voice-activate SmartThings routines with custom Siri commands
- Apple Watch App: View device lists, send commands, and trigger routines from wrist
- Device Groups on Watch: Control groups created in iPhone app directly from Apple Watch
- Expanded Live Activities: Track up to 5 recently used devices on lock screen
- Enhanced Compatibility: Better support for multi-ecosystem households
