Samsung Updated SmartThings With Local Control Support
The platform update helps 470 million users manage connected devices with better speed and offline reliability.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Home Renovation
Live Poll
Do you prefer smart home devices that function locally without needing an internet connection?
Samsung has rolled out a major software update for its SmartThings platform that adds Matter 1.6 support and introduces local control capabilities. This update aims to provide more reliable performance for the company's 470 million registered users by allowing direct device communication.
Why it matters
The shift toward local control reduces command latency by bypassing cloud servers, ensuring that your home automations continue to function during internet outages. By enabling direct communication between phones and hubs, Samsung significantly improves the responsiveness of connected home ecosystems.
The update introduces Matter 1.6 compatibility for irrigation, energy, and soil sensors across the network of over 430 certified brands. Samsung reports a 30% increase in command speed for systems utilizing the new local control protocols.
The players
Samsung
A multinational technology conglomerate that manufactures home appliances and manages the SmartThings IoT platform.
The details
Local control functions by allowing your phone to communicate directly with your hub when both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, bypassing the need for cloud-based processing. The update also features SmartThings Now, which uses contextual cards to surface activity. Furthermore, Matter 1.6 expands device support to include energy meters, closures, and soil sensors.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: Samsung announced the platform update.
The Home Front
This update marks a significant expansion of the Matter smart home connectivity standard within global consumer ecosystems. It continues the industry trend of shifting device processing from the cloud to local hardware to improve resilience and speed.
Check your hub settings to ensure your SmartThings Station or V2, V3, and V4 Hubs are running the latest firmware to enable local control. If you have Matter-supported devices like irrigation controllers or energy meters, verify their status within the new SmartThings Now interface.
The takeaway
Moving smart home processing to local hardware makes your system faster and more resilient against network failures. Check your hub model and firmware version to ensure you are ready to take advantage of these new connectivity features.
Further reading
Learn more about upgrading your connected systems in our Home Renovation section.
Live Poll
Do you prefer smart home devices that function locally without needing an internet connection?
