Amazon, Google, and Apple may be the most talked about names in the smart home hub game, but Samsung is throwing its name in the ring with a beefed up hub offering of its own. While Samsung already sells the SmartThings hub capable of controlling everything from smart lighting and locks to Amazon and Google’s voice assistants, its latest release, the Samsung Connect Home, is billed as the industry’s first smart Wi-fi system to incorporate a smart devices hub as well.
So what will it do? First, the smart Wi-Fi router and system finds optimal signal coverage for the whole home (you can cover up to 4,500 square feet by connecting three hubs) and the corresponding app lets you control network access from a phone or tablet. Add in the existing SmartThings platform and you’ll be able to use the same app (or by voice command if voice assistants are integrated) to manage all of your compatible smart home devices.
The product will be available as a single pack for $169.99 and three pack for $379.99. Pre-orders start on June 4 through Best Buy’s website, and will be widely available on July 16. For more smart home coverage, head here or start with our guide to turning hour home into a smart home.