Samsung Electronics, together with LG Electronics and Vestel, is teaming up to enable users to control third-party smart appliances through their preferred apps.
This marks an industry first and the effort is based on the HCA’s Interface Specification 1.0, facilitating Cloud-to-Cloud (C2C) interoperability for certain home appliances and HVAC systems.
Seamless Cross-Brand Control
The collaboration establishes a framework for C2C cross-control, offering users meaningful benefits, beginning with integrating legacy devices. This is the first time Samsung and LG Electronics enable control of each other’s devices using their respective apps. This paves the way for further collaboration.
LG’s Role and Cross-Brand Connectivity
LG Electronics is set to roll out the first commercial implementation of the HCA Specification 1.0 through the ThinQ smart home platform. This will allow users to control appliances from different brands via the ThinQ app, starting this year. Initially, it covers major appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, expanding over time.
Unifying Smart Home Experience through Samsung and LG Collaboration
The Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA), formed in January 2022, is actively working to achieve a seamless smart home experience by fostering interoperability among member companies’ platforms. LG, a board member, is deeply engaged in this mission.
The partnership between Samsung and LG Electronics establishes a foundation for cross-control (C2C), providing significant advantages to users. This collaboration initiates mutual device control through respective apps, marking an initial step toward enhanced cooperation.
LG also contributes to the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), which develops open communication protocols for smart home devices. LG played a role in standardizing the Matter protocol, an IoT communications standard led by the CSA.
Availability
This advancement, starting from Q4 2023, will debut in eight countries, including Korea and the U.S., with future expansion.
Commenting on the announcement, Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President and Head of the Service Biz Group, Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics, said:
HCA’s collaboration with global leaders in appliances, HVAC, and TV industries marks a significant step towards interoperability. This partnership reflects the dedication of major manufacturers to enhance consumer experience at home.
By allowing control of various appliance brands via apps like SmartThings, we anticipate the smart home market to expand significantly. This will enable global leaders to offer improved digital services, providing new advantages to consumers. Samsung remains unwavering in its support for HCA and its objectives.
Speaking on the announcement, Jung Ki-hyun, Executive Vice President and Head of Platform Business Center, said:
LG ThinQ is at the forefront of creating a harmoniously interconnected ecosystem of home appliances, delivering unprecedented smart home experiences to our global clientele. Our commitment to broadening the compatibility between ThinQ and the smart home platforms of other Home Connectivity Alliance members remains unwavering.