SmartThings Now makes local control the more consequential part of its redesign

Samsung's October 6 SmartThings update introduces contextual cards, routine suggestions and a revised Home tab. Alongside those interface changes, the company describes expanded local control: a supported phone can communicate directly with a compatible hub when both are on the same Wi-Fi network. Samsung says this can help maintain device control when external internet service is disrupted.

A refreshed dashboard and a different control path

The update also adds Matter 1.6 support and categories for energy meters, specialized closures, irrigation and soil sensors. That broadens the platform's stated scope, but it is not a promise that every connected accessory works locally. The supported hub, device type, connection and operation still determine which part of a home can benefit from the new path.

NEXTECH analysis: reliability before automation volume

Reliability is a better organizing principle than the number of automations in an app. A useful connected home lets people perform an ordinary action when conditions are imperfect. We would first ask which lights or controls remain available without an external connection, then consider whether contextual suggestions save meaningful effort. An attractive dashboard cannot answer the first question by itself.

The supported setup still sets the boundary

NEXTECH has not tested the update or measured response times. Readers should check the compatible-hub list and identify which actions depend on remote services before changing a household routine. Our assessment is about the design direction: local control gives a more concrete question to investigate than a general claim that a home has become smarter, while clear manual controls remain an important fallback.