Samsung Highlights How Open Ecosystems Unlock the Real Promise of Home AI at CES 2026
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. kicked off its CES 2026 Tech Forums by bringing together leaders in smart home interoperability for an industry-defining conversation at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada. The opening panel, titled “When Everything Clicks: How Open Ecosystems Deliver Impactful AI,” explored how collaboration across industries is shaping the future of intelligent homes that are seamless, secure and genuinely supportive of everyday life.
As connected living continues to evolve, the discussion underscored a clear message: the true potential of Home AI can only be realised through openness rather than closed, siloed ecosystems.
Openness as the Foundation of Home AI
Panellists agreed that the next generation of Home AI must be built on open collaboration. With modern households relying on devices and services from multiple brands, interoperability is essential for Artificial Intelligence systems to function as one cohesive environment.
Samsung shared its vision that open connectivity enables appliances, energy systems, safety services and industry partners to work together in ways that deliver meaningful, real-world impact — something nearly impossible within closed ecosystems.
“Home is the most personal place in our lives, so Home AI must earn trust — quietly, respectfully and with value users can feel. That requires interoperability across brands, so the home works as one system instead of disconnected features.”
said Yoonho Choi, President & Chair of the Board of the Home Connectivity Alliance and Head of Strategic Alliances at Samsung Electronics
Powering the World’s Largest Connected Home Ecosystem
Samsung highlighted the scale of its SmartThings ecosystem, which now connects more than 500 million users globally. With over a decade of experience in connected living, Samsung continues to shape how AI companionship in the home is evolving — from individual smart devices to fully integrated, system-wide intelligence.
This extensive foundation allows Samsung to design AI-driven experiences that feel natural and intuitive, coordinating across appliances and services rather than overwhelming users with technical complexity.
Michael Wolf, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Spoon, noted the transformative potential of deeply connected environments, particularly in the kitchen. He emphasised that a fully integrated kitchen ecosystem can enable preventative action by connecting appliances with water and heating networks, delivering smarter, more holistic home management.
Turning Collaboration Into Measurable Consumer Benefits
The panel also explored how open ecosystems can deliver tangible, measurable benefits through cross-industry partnerships. A key example was Samsung’s collaboration with Hartford Steam Boiler (HSB), which demonstrates how responsibly used smart home data can translate into real consumer value.
Through this partnership, simple data points from connected devices are transformed into insights that help reduce risk and unlock potential insurance savings for homeowners — all while maintaining transparency and trust.
“We’re at a point where the connected home can bring seamless integration into user lifestyles. That trust results in direct benefits to consumers, turning smart home intelligence into tangible savings.”
said Jed Usich, Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth Solutions at HSB
Designing AI That Feels Human, Not Intrusive
Beyond technology, panellists stressed that successful Home AI must feel emotionally intelligent and unobtrusive. Whether supporting daily routines like cooking and relaxing or more critical needs such as safety and family care, AI should integrate calmly into the background of everyday life.
Design, behavioural understanding and thoughtful storytelling were highlighted as essential elements in ensuring connected devices feel like reliable companions rather than invasive technologies.
The Future of Home AI
The consensus from Samsung’s CES 2026 Tech Forum was clear: the future of Home AI depends on interoperability, responsible data use and collaboration across industries. By prioritising openness and trust, intelligent homes can deliver real value without compromising user confidence.
As AI becomes increasingly ambient and system-wide, Samsung remains committed to building open ecosystems that make connected living simpler, safer and more meaningful — proving that when everything truly clicks, Home AI can enhance everyday life in powerful and human-centred ways.
Note: This article references products and features currently in development. Plans, timelines and availability may change without notice and may vary by region or market.
