Samsung’s SmartThings app, a staple for controlling a variety of devices from TVs to security cameras, has not evolved in line with the company’s other apps. While apps like Gallery and Samsung Health have seen significant design enhancements, SmartThings appears outdated. This discrepancy might stem from its development under Samsung’s Digital Appliances division rather than the mobile division. Consequently, SmartThings feels out of place within Samsung’s modern app ecosystem.
A major design overhaul is necessary for SmartThings. The app would benefit from adopting a One UI 8.5-style floating tab bar and incorporating modern colors and better spacing to create a lighter, more inviting interface. Performance improvements are also crucial, with faster responsiveness and fluid animations needed. Additionally, updating the app’s iconography to align with the latest One UI version is essential.
SmartThings requires a more adaptive layout, particularly in landscape mode, to better utilize larger screens on foldable phones and tablets. Currently, the app’s complexity detracts from its primary function of controlling smart home devices. The inclusion of features like device tracking and various services has made it cumbersome.
To streamline its functionality, Samsung should consider separating features like Samsung Find, Family Care, Music Sync, and Pet Care into their own dedicated apps, leaving SmartThings to focus on home automation and smart device control.
