Samsung just rolled out a big new update for its SmartThings app. Unlike past updates, this one does not just include bug fixes. According to a post on X by Theordysm, version 1.8.33.25 introduces some new and useful features. The update also brings about Now Bar integration. So, if you’re into automating your home with SmartThings, this update could be worth checking out.
SmartThings update brings Now Bar integration
The biggest, and also kind of unexpected, change is that SmartThings now supports Samsung’s Now Bar. If you’ve updated to the latest version, SmartThings routines and devices can now appear as Live Activities on your lock screen, status bar, and notification panel.
These Live Activities are displayed as toggleable chips. They will provide users with quick shortcuts to their smart home. Enabling it is pretty simple. All you have to do is go to Settings > Lock screen and AOD > Now Bar > View more, and you’ll be able to toggle SmartThings into the Now Bar. It’s a great addition if you want faster access to things like lighting presets or device status without opening the app every time.
For some reason, Samsung did not mention this feature in the release notes, so this is quite a nice surprise.
Other new features you can expect
In addition to the SmartThings update with Now Bar integration, there are a bunch of other changes and new features that you can check out. These are quality-of-life features that make the SmartThings app a bit more flexible.
For example, you can now temporarily share your Galaxy SmartTag’s location via a link. You can choose between 12 hours, 24 hours, or a full week. Up to five people can view the location. However, the catch is that they’ll need to sign in with a Samsung account.
There’s also a new “Home Life” section that acts like a short survey. After asking about your living situation (like how many people live with you or whether you have pets), SmartThings offers personalized insights and service suggestions.
Finally, routines now support pre-execution confirmations. If enabled, SmartThings will ask for your confirmation before a routine runs. If you don’t respond in time, the routine gets canceled. This is ideal for situations where automation might otherwise get in the way.
Also, now, when you reopen the app, it remembers your last view, whether it was the Home tab or the Map view. According to SamMobile, the update is rolling out in phases. This means that you might not see the changes yet, but be patient; they should eventually arrive.
The post Samsung SmartThings Update Brings Now Bar Integration appeared first on Android Headlines.
