SmartThings Hub
In Berlin, Samsung wants to show its seriousness in the
Internet of Things (IOT) field. To the visitors of IFA 2015, Samsung has just
introduced a system that doesn't have exclusivity, but is open and can unify
devices from various brands at once.
The system is driven by a device called SmartThings Hub. For
information, SmartThings itself is a company that's engaged in the IoT which
has been acquired by Samsung a year ago.
Just like the majority of smart hub on the market,
SmartThings Hub serves to connect all the devices connected to the Wi-Fi
network at home. The difference is SmartThings Hub is not limited to one
platform only; users can connect a variety of sensors from different
manufacturers.
Once the system is formed neatly, users can control all
devices in the home through one centralized application, namely SmartThings
App. Again, without any exclusivity, this application will be available for
Android, iOS and Windows Phone as well.
SmartThings Hub offers video streaming feature that's
derived from surveillance cameras, and this device has a backup battery that
can last up to 10 hours when the power goes out. It's still able to operate
despite doesn't receive internet access.
This device has been marketed by Samsung in the US for $ 99.
Samsung also plans to offer it in the bundle form together with a number of
sensors.
Samsung SleepSense
At the same time, Samsung also introduces another unique
device called Samsung SleepSense, this device is a new generation of sleep
tracker. It doesn't need to be worn by the user, but attached to the bottom of
the mattress.
When you are sleeping, the SleepSense will monitor various
parameters, ranging from heart rate and breathing patterns, until your body
movements. In the morning, you will receive an evaluation of your sleep
activity via SleepSense companion app on the smartphone.
But what makes SleepSense truly unique is its ability to
connect with other devices. For example, user can connect SleepSense with air
conditioning and a television in the bedroom. Then when the user is asleep, the
TV will be turned off automatically, and then the air conditioner will be set
in the most optimal condition.
This feature will be more optimal when the user has
installed the SmartThings Hub. Yes, SleepSense can also get access to a variety
of connected devices in SmartThings application, especially devices that affect
the activity of sleep, such as lighting, surveillance cameras, thermostat, and
so forth.
For this time Samsung is only introducing the SleepSense,
there is no information about the pricing or release schedule.