Samsung Newsroom

A new, smart home companion is welcoming users home by taking care of household tasks, displaying the day’s events and sharing weather updates. Samsung Electronics introduced a new version of its AI home companion robot Ballie at a press conference at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas on January 8 (local time) — ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. First introduced at CES 2020, Ballie has been revamped with new advanced features to help users intelligently navigate their lives. Ballie acts as a personal home assistant, autonomously driving around the home to complete various tasks. By connecting to and managing home appliances, Ballie can provide a helping hand to users in many situations — continually learning from users’ patterns and habits to provide smarter, more personalized services. Ballie provides peace of mind by sending video updates of pets or loved ones to users’ devices when they’re away from home. What’s more, Ballie can set the mood for any home activity whether users are exercising, working or relaxing. From projecting workout videos on the wall or floor in an optimal size to playing music and answering phone calls, Ballie makes life at home more productive and enjoyable. Learn more about Ballie’s unique AI functionalities in the video below.  View the full article

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Transparent LEDs are poised to redefine viewing experiences, making the line between content and reality virtually indistinguishable. Leveraging this groundbreaking technology, Samsung Electronics has upleveled its leading MICRO LED display to expand how users enjoy visual content. The company’s Transparent MICRO LED display was unveiled for the first time at Samsung First Look 2024 on January 7 (local time) — ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, the world’s largest consumer electronics and information technology exhibition held in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Combining superior craftsmanship with six years of tireless research and development, this new modular MICRO LED wowed attendees with its futuristic design. The Transparent MICRO LED’s crystal-clear, glass-like display has revolutionized the viewing experience and attracted the attention of global consumers. Check out how Transparent MICRO LEDs will make everything from sports to movies more vivid and immersive in the video below.  View the full article

Samsung Electronics today announced its latest QLED, MICRO LED, OLED and Lifestyle display lineups ahead of CES® 2024. The announcement also served to kick off the AI screen era through the introduction of a next-generation AI processor poised to redefine the perception of smart display capabilities. In addition to bringing improved picture and sound quality, the new lineups provide consumers with AI-powered features secured by Samsung Knox, focusing on inspiring and empowering individual lifestyles. “Now that we are living through the hyperconnected era, it’s no longer just about delivering quality visual experiences. Displays should enhance our lives both on and off the screen,” said SW Yong, President and Head of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s AI screens, powered by on-device AI technology, are designed to be the centerpiece of users’ homes, connecting all compatible devices to offer users a more flexible and diverse lifestyle.” Double the AI Performance for Enhanced Neo QLED 8K Picture Quality Samsung’s newest Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs offer the full package, including lifelike picture quality, premium audio technology and a rich array of apps and services. At its core, the 2024 Neo QLED 8K is Samsung’s latest and most innovative TV processor yet: NQ8 AI Gen3, which has a neural processing unit (NPU) that is twice as fast as that of its predecessor. The amount of neural networks has also increased eightfold from 64 to 512, allowing everything on screen to be displayed in crisp detail. Thanks to this advanced processor, the 2024 lineup is equipped with unprecedented performance upgrades. The Neo QLED lineup also brings a suite of picture quality and design enhancing features, including: 8K AI Upscaling Pro1: Leverages NQ8 AI Gen3 for enhanced 8K upscaling, sharpening low resolution content so that it is displayed in ultra-high resolution. AI Motion Enhancer Pro: Solves common issues in sporting contents — such as ball distortion — by streaming high-resolution sports matches through this feature2 powered by NQ8 AI Gen3. The feature automatically detects the sport type and uses deep learning to apply the proper ball detection model. Real Depth Enhancer Pro: Adds details to fast-moving scenes using AI to precisely control mini LEDs. By detecting the part of a scene that the human eye would naturally focus on and bringing it to the foreground, images appear more lifelike and three dimensional. Infinity Air Design: Complements Neo QLED 8K’s impeccable picture quality with a screen only 12.9mm in depth,3 allowing for an immersive viewing experience that focuses on high resolution and outstanding sound quality. It is also offers a unique mirror effect in which the TV appears to hover in its surroundings. The performance of the Neo QLED 8K is rounded out by immaculate audio quality, on par with the stunning 8K picture quality on screen. 2024 Q-Symphony: Allows users to connect multiple wireless speakers and a soundbar to a TV or projector for perfect audio synchronization across shows, movies, and playlists. It’s a technology that perfectly synchronizes TV with wireless speakers and a soundbar. Active Voice Amplifier Pro: A proprietary AI dialogue booster that utilizes exclusive deep-learning technology to significantly enhance dialogue and voices on screen. It separates voices from mixed audio, enhancing voice input so users can easily follow the conversation on screen at any volume. 2024 Tizen OS Streamlines the Home TV Experience The 2024 Tizen OS brings content front and center on the Neo QLED 8K lineup. It offers a personalized content and service experience based on different accounts set up on smart TVs. Now, different members of each household with a Samsung Smart TV can set up a profile for personalized recommendations and a more customized overall experience. Samsung TV Plus: The updated user interface (UI) includes a new home screen with an overview of available content, with added categories for faster content discovery. The service will also connect with Samsung accounts to easily access users’ favorite channels and content while offering tailored content suggestions based on viewing history. ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ Controller: Samsung has partnered with gaming accessory provider Performance Designed Products (PDP) to develop the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” controller, set to be launched at CES 2024. PDP’s new wireless controller includes a built-in, rechargeable battery that provides up to 40 hours of playtime per charge, a 30-foot low-latency Bluetooth wireless connection, a Samsung Gaming Hub home button capable of launching Gaming Hub, an easy-to-use TV volume control button and more. Connected, Inclusive Experiences With the Samsung Ecosystem With Samsung TVs at the center of the home, users can reap the benefits of the latest innovations and enjoy seamless connectivity between devices in their day-to-day life. In 2024, Samsung will vastly improve its connected experience with Samsung Daily+,4 a hub for in-home activity. It provides a wide range of services and features — from personal training and telehealth to video calls and remote PC solutions — in one single interface. New features include the following: Workout Tracker: This free service5 puts real-time exercise data — such as workout duration and heart rates from wearable devices — on top of users’ content on Samsung screens to keep them both entertained and informed while working out at home. TechnoGym: enhances your home workout with high-quality fitness and wellness videos from the world-class instructors at TechnoGym. Discover these curated contents for maximum performance, only on Samsung TV. F45: Users can work out and join intensive in-studio training at one of F45’s 3,000+ studios worldwide. FlexIt: Live one-on-one sessions with top fitness and wellness professionals Tail: provides real-time video consultation with a vet in the comfort of users’ homes. From basic care tips to advanced advice, Dr.Tail has a range of questions covered. Users can connect with veterinary experts in real time whenever they need. Multi Control: Allows more efficient work from home by giving users control of all their screens — including TVs, smartphones, and monitors — with a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse. Users can experience a different way to work by copying and pasting, reading documents and more across devices. Samsung’s latest 2024 TVs and screens also come with greater compatibility across various devices within the ecosystem, allowing a more integrated connection between TVs and smartphones or wearable devices for a greater level of customization, accessibility and convenience. Mobile Smart Connect: All of the new featured apps and services are easily controlled with the SmartThings Mobile Plugin, which transforms the smartphone into a multi-functional remote that offers users greater control over their screens. With a straightforward pop-up interface and a customizable UI, the app provides convenience and enhanced accessibility. 360 Audio: The audio feature, previously offered on Galaxy devices, has also expanded to Samsung TVs and screens. Now, Samsung Galaxy Buds seamlessly connect to TVs to deliver spatial audio for movies, shows and even gaming titles, so users can be truly immersed in visual content and gameplay. Vibrary: Enjoy your favorite artist’s high-quality images via the big screen of your TV. With Ambient Mode, you can be welcomed every day by your favorite artist. You can also enjoy photos and music from TV and mobile devices through Casting, providing a seamless viewing experience. The latest TV and screen lineup also boasts enhanced accessibility offerings, allowing more consumers to enjoy their favorite content on Samsung Neo QLED than ever before. Audio Subtitle: The world’s first on-device TV feature that uses AI and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to provide a voice guide for embedded subtitles in real-time. Remote for Barrier Free: An app designed for users with visual, auditory or physical disabilities by enabling more thoughtful TV control via smartphones. The highly customizable app incorporates UI enhancements such as intuitive button placement, distinct colors and tactile feedback, while also integrating Samsung’s latest accessibility features such as voice guides for easy access right from the smartphone. Relumino Together Mode: Relumino is a feature that enables people with low vision to enjoy their favorite TV shows, movies and games without the need for wearable hardware. With AI technology dynamically outlining the edges of on-screen elements and rebalance colors, the feature enables users with low vision to more clearly see people and objects. Relumino Together Mode provides standard screens and Relumino Mode screens side-by-side, so people with low vision and their families can enjoy TV together. MICRO LED: Pushing the Boundaries of Display Technology With the new transparent MICRO LED, Samsung is showing the world that there are infinite possibilities for screens. The screen, which looks like a piece of transparent glass, boasts an extremely small MICRO LED chip and precision manufacturing process that eliminates seams and light refraction. This allows the transparent MICRO LED to create a clear, unobstructed picture for various use cases in both homes and B2B environments. Touting a modular design that allows users to personalize the shape, size and ratio of screens to fit any space, MICRO LED is a truly innovative screen technology. Samsung’s years of research and development — stemming from its semiconductor expertise — have led to an extremely effective process, allowing LED chip operation circuits to be directly deposited on the glass and thereby mitigating the loss of brightness that users may experience with conventional displays. Offering Wider OLED Lineups To Meet Consumer Preferences Samsung’s 2024 OLED TVs build on the legacy of last year’s models, with the S95D offering an ultra-large 77-inch canvas for high-detail, a high-frame rate and intensely vibrant video. The display is 20% brighter than previous models, with deep and rich blacks and AI-enhanced color accuracy so pure that it’s Pantone Validated. Samsung has also introduced the S90D and S85D in various sizes, from 42” to 83’’.6 New ‘OLED Glare Free’ technology7 — specifically designed for 2024 OLED screens — preserves color accuracy and reduces reflections while maintaining image sharpness to ensure an immersive viewing experience, even in daylight. The OLED-optimized, low-reflection coating overcomes the trade-off between gloss and reflection thanks to a new, specialized hard-coating layer and surface coating pattern. The S95D’s screen will captivate audiences with advanced, proprietary picture-quality engines that preserve perfect whites, deeper blacks and accurate colors. In addition to being Samsung’s brightest OLED screen yet, it also features high refresh rates of up to 144Hz, so sports fans and gamers can enjoy seamless motion and crystal-clear action on their screens. New Lifestyle Products Deliver Bespoke Solutions To Enrich Every Lifestyle In addition to its award-winning lifestyle lineup that includes The Frame, The Serif and The Terrace, Samsung is reaffirming its commitment to “Screens Everywhere, Screens for All” with the various new products in its latest lifestyle lineup. These new additions provide another level of customization and personalization, as seen below: The Frame: Already the best-selling lifestyle screen product, The Frame comes with new enhancements to boost the art experience. Now with over 2,500 artworks from world-renowned museums and galleries in the Art Store, users can enjoy an Art Store experience that is even better than before. The Frame’s new art streaming feature gives users a taste of the Art Store’s diverse collection by providing them with free hand-selected artworks monthly. Moreover, the 2024 Frame helps reduce energy costs by up to 10% with the variable refresh rate adjustment available in Art Mode.8 The Premiere 8K Projector: The Premiere 8K is the world’s first projector offering wireless connectivity. Removing the need for cables, this solution allows consumers to keep their living spaces neat and tidy. The ultra-short throw projector comes packed with smart features — such as picture-off premium home audio, cloud gaming, always-on voice with far-field mic and four multi-view screen splits — to extend usability and provide almost increased use cases. The projector incorporates Samsung’s patented “Sound-on-Screen” technology, integrating the top speaker module and software algorithms for an immersive sound experience. The Freestyle 2nd Gen: The second iteration of the portable projector features Smart Edge Blending, which supports seamless merging of projections from two The Freestyle devices to create a large screen for pictures and videos. It allows two devices to project an image as big as 160-inches with a 21:9 screen ratio, with no manual adjustment needed. New Soundbars for Immersive Audio Experience To top off a home entertainment set up, the 2024 soundbar lineup offers newly updated models for even more immersive audio experiences, which are particularly bolstered by advanced AI algorithms. Music Frame: This customizable speaker is compatible with SmartThings and provides surround sound when paired with Samsung TVs and soundbars. Music Frame can either operate as a standalone wireless speaker or pair with a Samsung TV and soundbar via Q-Symphony to augment bass and surround sound. Seamlessly blending into its environment by camouflaging itself inside modern picture frames, Music Frame provides high-quality sound without being an eyesore. HW-Q990D: This soundbar features a 11.1.4-channel configuration, immersive Dolby Atmos sound and supports pass through of content in 4K 120Hz. It analyzes audio and uses AI to optimize sound for the perfect experience across a wide range of content. HW-S800D: This ultra-thin, 1.6-inch-deep soundbar is designed to fit seamlessly into any space and provides rich and immersive sound. At only a third of the depth of conventional soundbars, the S800D has 10 drivers, including dedicated overhead speakers and a center channel for crystal-clear vocals. The combination of a deep bass subwoofer and a passive radiator also enhances the listening experience with deep, distortion-free bass in a compact form factor. Samsung’s 2024 TV lineup promises a seamless fusion of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design, setting the stage for personalized, immersive experiences that redefine the way people live and engage with their devices. 1 QN900D only. 8K AI Upscaling for other models. 2 Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. Upscaling may not apply to PC connection and Game Mode. 3 12.9mm in depth only applies to 65’’ QN900D. 4 Samsung Daily+ will be applied to DU7000↑ and rolled out worldwide. 5 Workout Tracker is compatible with Galaxy Watch 4 and up, YouTube and TV program content. It will be compatible with various third-party devices later in 2024. 6 Size and model availability of OLEDs may vary by country. 7 UL’s verification validates the ‘OLED Glare Free’ claim by assessing the products against Unified Glare Rating (UGR) testing standard set by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) and testing standard set by the International Organization for Standardization. 8 This feature applies to the 55’’ display and above. View the full article

Samsung Electronics today announced details of the “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” program that will be showcased at CES® 2024. The objective of the program is to work with leading gaming accessory companies to drive the next generation of best-in-class partner products for the Samsung Gaming Hub, Samsung’s game streaming platform. In addition, the company announced its partnership with gaming accessory provider PDP (Performance Designed Products LLC), the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” controller. “Samsung recognizes the indispensable role of accessories in elevating gaming experiences,” said Jiho Ha, Head of Service Partnerships Group at Samsung Electronics. “Building on our already-high level of compatibility, the ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ program will see us collaborating with trusted partners to craft accessories that further enhance the premier experience of the Samsung Gaming Hub.” Starting this year, players will see the “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” badge, which designates the product has been tested for compatibility, quality, performance, safety and security on Samsung devices. Accessories displaying this badge guarantee the best possible game streaming experience on Samsung Gaming Hub, regardless of the supported Samsung device players choose. Today, Samsung also announced its partnership with PDP’s new wireless controller, the “Replay Midnight Blue,” which is the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” product. The new controller will include a built-in, rechargeable battery for up-to 40 hours of playtime per charge, a 30-foot range low-latency Bluetooth wireless connection, a Samsung Gaming Hub home button capable of immediately launching Samsung Gaming Hub, an easy-to-use TV volume control button and more. Gamers can get a closer look at the “Replay Midnight Blue” at the Samsung booth at CES. The controller is now available1 for pre-order on the PDP website, Amazon.com and BestBuy.com. Samsung continues to give gamers more choice in how they play, from the devices they use to stream their games to the expansion of Samsung Gaming Hub ecosystem and consistently offering innovative products and experiences that players love. Stay tuned as Samsung continues to innovate and add new partners within the ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ ecosystem. 1 Availability may vary by regions. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics today announced new Odyssey OLED gaming monitors debuting at CES® 2024, the world’s biggest tech event owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association® (CTA), in Las Vegas next week. The new OLED models deliver on the performance and visual clarity gamers look for in their monitors and include the Odyssey OLED G9 (G95SD model), Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD model) and the Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SD model). The Odyssey OLED G9 is a 49” curved ultra-wide gaming monitor with DQHD (5,120 x 1,440) resolution, a 32:9 aspect ratio and other upgraded features. The Odyssey OLED G8 is the first flat 32” Samsung OLED gaming monitor with 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Both monitors have a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms GTG response time.1 The Odyssey OLED G6 is a 27” QHD (2,560 x 1,440) monitor which supports a 16:9 aspect ratio, 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms GTG response time. “Along with game genres, gaming platforms are getting more diverse,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s new OLED Odyssey gaming monitors will empower gamers with more immersive game environments and innovative technology that personalize their gaming experiences — meeting and exceeding their evolving needs.” Technologies Enabling Delicate Nuance All three new models feature OLED Glare-Free technology that minimizes light reflections, enabling an enhanced viewing experience without extra equipment, so users can play games with consistent brightness and color in nearly any lighting environment. With VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, the monitors deliver incredible details and vivid colors independent of the game or content being displayed. What’s more, they support AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for ultra-smooth, low-latency HDR gaming. The three new monitors bring comprehensive physical connectivity, with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB hub and a DisplayPort 1.4 input. Users will also enjoy better comfort and convenience with VESA mount2 compatibility and a height adjustable stand (HAS) that features tilt, swivel and pivot3 control points. Connected Experiences in a Complete Ecosystem The Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 now offer Multi Control, a new feature that provides seamless device connectivity for an easier, improved multi-device experience. Multi Control allows users to seamlessly transfer images and/or text between their Samsung monitor and other Samsung devices — including their Galaxy Book, tablet or phone — for a smoother, more efficient work process using their mouse and keyboard.4 Additionally, the Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 include the Samsung SmartThings Hub. With the built-in hub, users can connect to various IoT devices that are compatible with Matter and the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA), for device control.5 When switching from work to play, the Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 monitors are all-in-one entertainment hubs. Equipped with the Samsung Smart TV platform and Samsung Gaming Hub, they provide access to streaming and cloud gaming services without downloads, storage constraints or the need for a PC/console.6 A Sleek Design To Light Up Any Space For the first time, Samsung has brought flat OLED options to the Odyssey lineup and a 16:9 aspect ratio to the Odyssey OLED G8 and Odyssey OLED G6. The new models leverage the Odyssey OLED lineup’s unique, slim metal design and include new Core Lighting+ to fit in their slim bezels. Core Lighting+ immerses users in the environments of their games and entertainment by emitting ambient light from the back of the monitor. And with a lighting circle four times slimmer than the previous model (G95SC model), it fits in seamlessly with the slim 3.9mm metal bezel. There’s also a new slim metal stand that adopts a tool-free assembly structure, using a 3mm metal plate that provides harmony with the display design and opens up space for other devices. With the unveiling of these new models, Samsung has further strengthened its OLED lineup and bolstered its leadership position in the gaming monitor market. Together, the Odyssey OLED innovations and the continued advancements of the Odyssey Neo series — which saw the release of the world’s first Dual UHD gaming monitor last year with the 57” Odyssey Neo G9 (G95NC model) — are delivering features and performance that will help define the future of gaming. 1 Gray-to-gray (GTG) response time is how long it takes for a pixel to change from one shade of gray to another. 2 VESA mount refers to the industry’s most common family of standards for mounting displays, as defined by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). 3 Swivel and pivot supported in the G80SD and G60SD models. 4 Multi Control is compatible with Samsung monitors operated by Tizen OS released in 2024 or later, Galaxy Books released in 2021 or later and Galaxy tablets and phones running One UI 5.1.1 or higher. 5 A separate SmartThings dongle is required to connect and control Zigbee and Thread devices. Connection to Z-Wave device is not supported. 6 Available partners’ services may vary by region. Available features and games may vary by model and country. View the full article

Steve McCurry from the international photography collective Magnum Photos, the photographer behind the iconic “Afghan Girl” portrait, has played a significant role in contemporary photography for more than four decades. Through his lens, McCurry has documented world conflicts, vanishing cultures, ancient traditions and modern society in an expressive, personal way. From the bustling streets of India to active warzones in Afghanistan, McCurry’s photographs have always been more than mere images — they are windows into the human experience. Magnum Photos Magnum Photos is a cooperative of world-famous press photographers. Located in New York, London, Paris and Tokyo, the collective provides photographs to media, publishers, advertisers, television, galleries and museums worldwide. Magnum’s photography library is a living archive of new works, updated daily from all over the world. His photography, which has traversed continents and cultures, is now available for The Frame, Samsung’s lifestyle TV. Through Samsung Art Store, his visual narratives find a place in homes around the world. Samsung Newsroom sat down with McCurry to talk about his inspiration and how technology can immortalize the stories told through his photography. ▲ Steve McCurry Finding Universality Through a Camera Lens Q: Do you have any significant moments or experiences that have influenced how you approach your work as a photographer? I have always had a desire to travel and push boundaries. After graduating from Pennsylvania State University and working at a newspaper for two years, I bought a one-way ticket to India with the money I had saved. I spent two years traveling throughout India and Nepal, photographing for a variety of magazines. In the spring of 1979, I stayed at a small hotel in Chitral, Pakistan — where I met some Afghan refugees from Nuristan who explained that many of the villages in their area had been destroyed. I told them I was a photographer, and they insisted that I come and capture the civil war. I had never photographed an area of conflict before and wasn’t sure how to react. After a few days, I walked with them over the mountains into Afghanistan and spent nearly three weeks photographing life there. I was astonished to see so many villages that had been virtually destroyed and abandoned. The roads were all blocked or under government control, so we had to walk everywhere. During this time, I met some people who I became close to. I was touched by the culture and beauty of the country. It was a different way of life with no modern conveniences, and I was drawn to the simplicity of that lifestyle. Everything was reduced to the basics — and that has made me return to Afghanistan time and time again. Q: You are well known for capturing raw emotions and intimate moments. How do you establish trust with your subjects, especially in culturally diverse settings? In my experience, most people are approachable. I find that once you explain what you are doing and how you can bring them into your process, people will open up and let you take their pictures. My photographs are how I observe the world and my surroundings. For me, the goal is to find some sort of universality among people across a huge variety of conditions. If I am successful, my artwork should be universally understood by anyone who has experienced the human condition, regardless of their circumstances. Q: Among your photographs, do you have a favorite? I took one of my favorite pictures when I was in an old part of Rajasthan, India. The whole city is painted in a wonderful blue color. I came across a corner and discovered children had left handprints on the wall during a festival. I thought, “What a great picture it would be if I could get people walking in or out of the frame.” After standing for about two hours, one little boy dashed through, and I caught him mid-stride. I was — and still am — happy with the picture. ▲ “Boy Playing,” Jodhpur, India (2007) From Lens to Living Room Q: How have users reacted to your work on The Frame this year? The response has been excellent. Users are excited to have such a wide range of artwork available on The Frame to keep their home interiors fresh. The Frame allows users to discover and appreciate new artists and artwork. It is amusing to see my work alongside classic masterpieces by Van Gogh and da Vinci, as well as many other up-and-coming artists. Q: Does displaying your art on The Frame differ from displaying your art in museums and galleries? The Frame allows users to transform their television into a dynamic art display. They can exhibit images in their home that they may not be able to see in person at museums. Although nothing beats seeing artwork in person, The Frame is a great way to experience art from the comfort of your own home. Q: What pieces would you recommend users display on The Frame? Please give us a brief explanation of each. For centuries in Tibet, prayer flags embellished with sacred writings have been hung with the belief that goodwill and compassion will be spread to all living beings as the wind passes over them. ▲ “Prayer Flags,” Tibet (2005) I spent two weeks with flower vendors as they plied their wares along the shores of Dal Lake in Kashmir, India. The act of buying and gifting flowers is deeply embedded in the region’s traditions and integral to the aesthetic and economy. Their shikaris,1 filled with blooms, offered a deep sense of tranquility and provided a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the surrounding town. ▲ “Dal Lake,” Srinagar, Kashmir (1999) ▲ “Boat in India,” Srinagar, Kashmir (1999) Photography in the Digital Age Q: Could you describe if and how technology has changed how you work over the years? I worked exclusively with film for most of my career, but I have fully embraced digital technology these days. While it hasn’t changed the way I see my work or the way I photograph, technology has undoubtedly altered the process — allowing me to work in much lower light and more complex situations than I could in the past. Nonetheless, the same truths apply to any image regardless of the technique that went into crafting it. There’s impermanence about all things and nostalgia about things in the past — but I prefer to look to the future. Q: How does the digital format of The Frame compare to other platforms where you have shared your work, such as galleries, museums or even magazine covers? Each medium has its advantages. Digital art is virtually permanent, and exposure to heat and light doesn’t affect color — but the medium can be a matter of personal preference. Many museums are supplementing their exhibitions with multi-media presentations, merging different formats. It will be interesting to see what the future holds since technology is evolving every day. The Frame is a wonderful way to see pictures in a more intimate home setting. I remember getting off a plane and seeing one of my pictures on a huge screen at JFK Airport in New York. It was surreal to see my work enjoyed by thousands of people passing through the terminal. Similarly, The Frame allows people to view art more comfortably — adding a new dimension to the experience. Q: In this digital age where most people use their phones as cameras, how do you see the role of professional photographers evolving? The medium, platform or technology — whether it’s Instagram, digital or film — is not important. Successful photography has to be about telling stories and being creative, having your own interpretation and voice to say what is important to you and conveying those emotions through your photographs. Q: What is next for you in the coming year? I will soon be traveling to Antarctica and working on a new book of short stories. Visit the Samsung Art Store in The Frame to see more of Steve McCurry’s work. 1 (In Kashmir) A light, flat-bottomed houseboat. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics today announced that it has become an official partner for Netflix’s upcoming immersive popup experience, “Squid Game: The Trials.” Powered by Samsung’s cutting-edge technology, the immersive pop culture experience brings one of the most engaging, interactive forms of gameplay with Samsung’s latest Smart TVs and Galaxy smartphones. Fans of the Netflix mega-hit series “Squid Game” and “Squid Game: The Challenge” can now sign up for a one-of-a-kind experience that takes visitors through the iconic sets and lets them compete in games drawn from and inspired by the shows. The new “Squid Game: The Trials” is currently open to visitors to experience in Los Angeles and will run into the new year with plans to expand to various cities around the world. “We are thrilled to partner with Netflix to offer industry-leading entertainment experiences,” said Cheolgi Kim, EVP & Head of Sales and Marketing of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Through Neo QLED 8K’s stunning picture quality, fans and participants will be able to immerse themselves in the environment and create unforgettable memories.” “Squid Game: The Trials” takes advantage of Samsung’s cutting-edge TVs and Galaxy mobile devices across the individual games to provide the ultimate immersive experience. Participants will navigate the experiential zones surrounded by Samsung’s flagship Neo QLED 8K, 4K and The Frame, which are placed to enhance the intensity and excitement of the games. At the entrance, Samsung’s flagship Neo QLED 8K welcomes guests by showcasing the “Squid Game: The Challenge” trailer. Thanks to the Neural Quantum Processor 8K, the Neo QLED upscales content into breathtaking 8K resolution in real-time, allowing participants to immediately immerse themselves in the vivid and detailed world of the “Squid Game” universe. Visitors also can enjoy Samsung’s latest mobile innovation through various experiences with the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy S23 Ultra. Samsung provides opportunities to experience the most up-to-date technology by incorporating their key features with the most memorable scenes from “Squid Game.” “Samsung’s longstanding relationship with Netflix is based on a shared purpose, which is to fuel passions and help people discover new worlds,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP & Head of Marketing of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “It is through our open and collaborative relationship that we are able to open portals into new and immersive experiences.” While playing “Squid Game”’s most iconic Red Light, Green Light the Galaxy S23 Ultra will capture key moments of gameplay with Hyperlapse video and high-quality pictures. With the precision it brings, the S Pen serves as a crucial component in the Digital Dalgona Challenge by helping players throw themselves into the mind-gripping and pressure-sensitive task of cutting delicate shapes out of the Korean candy. Visitors can enjoy the game on the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s immersive ultra-wide screen and challenge themselves with five levels of difficulty. Players can also check where they rank against competitors on the leaderboard. Furthermore, the S Pen can also be used to capture in-game photos for sharing after completion. Photos from both games can be shared instantly via Quick Share1 or downloaded through email. There will also be a FlexCam Selfie Kiosk, where the Galaxy Z Flip5’s FlexCam enables visitors to take hands-free photos from different angles and download them to be framed. Following the games, participants can retreat to the VIP room, where they can observe ongoing challenges on The Frame’s expansive 85-inch screen. The Lifestyle TV — with its latest Matte Display technology — offers a premium viewing experience that replicates the commanding ambiance of the Front Man’s quarters in the series. Availability Fans of the Netflix “Squid Game” universe can find more information and buy tickets to the Los Angeles “Squid Game: The Trials” at https://www.netflix.com/tudum/squid-game-the-trials or on Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are now available and running for a limited time through the new year. 1 Quick Share is available on Galaxy Smartphones, Galaxy Tabs, and Galaxy Books, on Android 10 and One UI2.1 and above. Available devices and features may subject to change. Requires BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and Wi-Fi Direct connection to enable Quick Share. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics, a global leader in the display industry, today announced the launch of a new collection of Keith Haring’s renowned work to Samsung Art Store,1 starting on December 1. The collection features 122 of the legendary artist’s most notable pieces from the 20th century, introducing his indelible legacy to homes across the globe. “We’re thrilled to bring the power and vitality of this contemporary master to the Samsung Art Store,” said Seline Sangsook Han, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Keith Haring created a visual language that is recognizable around the world and we’re delighted to provide these artworks on a digital platform for our global audience to enjoy at home.” Keith Haring, one of the most renowned young artists of his time, was a quintessential representation of New York urban street culture in the 1980s. Inspired by the street art that characterized the city, Haring began exhibiting his work in galleries and museums around the world. He also participated in social awareness projects, including literacy campaigns and anti-AIDS initiatives. Samsung Art Store users can now display works such as “Radiant Baby,” “Retrospect” and “Untitled (Dancing Dogs)” making these iconic Haring artworks more widely available to consumers worldwide. The selection is also specially curated and optimized for The Frame’s 16:9 screen ratio. “Working with Samsung Art Store felt like a great opportunity to share Keith Haring’s iconic artwork with a global audience,” said David Stark, the Founder and President of Artestar, an international brand licensing and consulting agency representing the Keith Haring Studio. “Keith lived by the ethos of ‘art is for everybody,’ and The Frame allows his work to enter the homes of fans and newcomers alike. We hope this collection will spark interest in Haring and his legacy.” Throughout his career, Haring produced art not just as a creative outlet, but also for the betterment of his community. He created numerous murals, sculptures and paintings to benefit hospitals, underprivileged children’s groups and various community health organizations. His foundation is committed to working with museums, galleries, publishers and art education program curators to commemorate his work. Haring has been the subject of several international retrospectives and his work is featured in major private and public collections, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art and much more. Since the inception of Samsung Art Store in 2017, Samsung has partnered with notable artists, museums and art galleries to make it possible for users to view masterpieces and invaluable collections from the comfort of their own homes. Alongside this collection, Samsung Art Store houses thousands of additional digital artworks from masters — such as Gustav Klimt, Kandinsky and Van Gogh — and digital art collections from major global institutions — including Tate in London, the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Belvedere Museum in Vienna. For more information on The Frame and Samsung Art Store, please visit samsung.com. 1 Samsung Art Store subscription is required. 2 The number of works available may vary depending on region. View the full article

Samsung Electronics is spearheading the era of “Bringing Calm to Our Connected World,” where customized experiences aim to enhance users’ lifestyles in ways never before seen. An effective smart home ecosystem gives consumers limitless opportunities for personalized experiences. There are now countless devices that are seamlessly synchronized and easily controlled by the TV. In line with this goal of seamless connections, Samsung has expanded the hyperconnected experience by partnering with Signify, formerly known as Philips Lighting, to incorporate the Philips Hue Sync TV app into Samsung TVs. These technologies work in perfect harmony to make content more immersive and add a cinematic quality to any home theater set up. To dive deeper into the collaboration, Samsung Newsroom sat down with AJ Cho from the CX team at the Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics and Yoojin Hong, Product Marketer of Hue at Signify Korea, to share insights into the partnership’s origin and setup tips to optimize your home entertainment experience. ▲ Philips Hue, synced with Samsung QLED TV, offers an immersive viewing experience that transcends the screen Industry Leaders Create the Ultimate Entertainment Experience The partnership between Samsung and Signify goes back to 2020. Philips Hue, known for its smart lighting system that allows users to adjust brightness and color, had just launched the Play HDMI Sync Box in 2019. “We noticed how the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box could sync lighting with the brightness and color according to the content being played on the screen. This significantly enhanced the viewing experience in a way we had never seen before,” said Cho. “At that moment, we knew we wanted to partner with Signify for a collaboration that would make our two products as cohesive as possible.” “With years of research into lighting’s impact on human perception and psychology, Philips developed Hue, a sophisticated and intelligent lighting system offering not just adjustable brightness and color temperature, but also a spectrum of 16 million colors,” said Hong. “Teaming up with Samsung, a market leader in TV manufacturing, allowed us to take full advantage of our advanced lighting system. It was clear to me that this collaboration would lead to innovative solutions in home entertainment.” ▲ AJ Cho from the CX team at the Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics (left) and Yoojin Hong, Product Marketer of Hue at Signify Korea As a result of this partnership, Samsung TVs were the first in the world to support the Philips Hue Sync TV application. Now, when Philips Hue is paired with a Samsung TV,1 the content is not just on the screen. It envelopes the entire room with lighting that harmonizes with each scene in real-time. It’s also never been easier to set up. Simply install the app from the app store, attach the light to the back of your TV and pair the light to the TV. The light can be paired with the TV without a separate sync box, instead leveraging the Samsung Smart TV platform. ▲ Philps Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip attached to the back of a TV. The Philips Hue Sync TV app eliminates the need for a separate Sync Box, allowing for a cleaner and easier setup “Previously, the Sync Box synchronized the lights only via the HDMI cable. In contrast, the Philips Hue Sync TV app allows content and the lights to sync. This means our consumers can enjoy this feature with everything from streaming services to video games,” said Cho. “It’s not only easy to install but also keeps the TV setup clean, with no need for additional cables.” Smart Lighting Enhances Gaming, Movies, Live Sports and Much More The Philips Hue Sync TV app supports a wide variety of content, including both game and video mode. The app will automatically use lighting optimized for the game you’re playing or the video you’re watching, synchronized in real-time to the content.  ▲ An on/off comparison of Philips Hue Sync (Game Mode) on a Samsung QLED TV “I strongly recommend using the lights on game mode, which provides immersive lighting based on the genre of the game you’re playing,” said Cho. “Whether it’s a simulation, FPS(First-Person Shooting), or racing game, the extra lighting pulls you in. Players can adjust the intensity of the light based on their preference as well for a highly customized experience.”  ▲ An on/off comparison of Philips Hue Sync (Video Mode) on a Samsung QLED TV Philips Hue also works well with movies or television shows. Cho’s personal favorite is pairing it with a horror movie. “Switching to Video mode with a horror movie transforms the room, immersing the viewer in a chilling, ominous atmosphere that truly elevates the viewing experience.”  ▲ An on/off comparison of Philips Hue Sync on a Samsung Smart Monitor Avid sports fans will also appreciate the synergy between Samsung TV Plus2 and Philips Hue. This combination became especially exciting with the recent launch of the FIFA+ channel3 on Samsung TV Plus. Samsung TV Plus is Samsung’s free, ad-supported streaming TV service. The FIFA+ channel features an extensive collection of FIFA Originals, archives, and highlights from both men’s and women’s soccer. Cho noted, “Using Philips Hue truly enhances the thrill of watching a game at home. Paired with superior sound and picture quality, the TV and the lighting combination creates a stadium-like atmosphere right in your living room.” Maximizing Realism in Home Entertainment With Philips Hue There are a number of key factors which influence how immersive content on screen can be. While the significance of picture and sound quality cannot be overstated, Hong believes that lighting might be the final piece needed to elevate the overall experience. ▲ Philips Hue Sync TV app, available on compatible Samsung Smart TVs, helps automatically sync the smart lighting according to various types of content displayed on the screen including videos and games “Philips Hue harmonizes with Samsung Smart TV, adjusting its colors in real-time to reflect on-screen content and maximizing a sense of realism on screen,” said Hong. “Whether it’s a movie, TV show, or gaming, Philips Hue is able to precisely catch the changes on screen, intensifying the immersion of the content.” Find the Perfect Philips Hue Setup for Your Samsung TV Philips Hue offers a wide lineup of options to suit any home theater set up. Based on their experience, Cho and Hong have handpicked specific Philips Hue products designed to optimize the viewing experience. ▲ Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip (left) and Philips Hue Play Gradient Light Tube (right) Cho selected the Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip, which can be attached to the back of a TV. “Similar to the way different colors are mixed to make the perfect shade of paint, this light strip uses different shades of light to create the desired ambience,” said Cho. “With its 45-degree beam angle and seamless connectivity, the Play Gradient Lightstrip allows your content and lights to be perfectly in sync.” Hong prefers the Philips Hue Play Gradient Light Tube. “It’s versatile, easy to install anywhere around the TV, and its greatest strength lies in its customization,” said Hong. “The light tube can be rotated up to 340 degrees, allowing you to direct the lights precisely where you need it in any setup.” 1 The Philips Hue Sync app is available on Samsung Neo QLED and QLED TV models Q60 and above released after 2022. A software update is planned for Q70B and Q700B 2022 models to support the app by the end of 2023. 2 Samsung TV Plus is a free, go-to source for entertainment and sport, available to Samsung Smart TV, Mobile and Tablet customers. Samsung TV models manufactured after 2016 and mobile devices with access to Android 8.0 or higher will have Samsung TV Plus already built in. If your device is compatible, you will be able to download it directly from the Galaxy and Google Play store. Samsung TV Plus is available on Samsung Family Hub refrigerators and the web on select regions. 3 Samsung TV Plus is only available in South Korea, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, Brazil and Mexico. The mobile app is only available in South Korea, United States, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Austria and India. View the full article

Few artists are as well known and beloved as Vincent van Gogh. From “Almond Blossom” and “Sunflowers” to his iconic self-portraits and striking impressionist works, Van Gogh is recognized worldwide for his use of bold colors and dramatic brush strokes. Housing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s art in the world, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is dedicated to the work of both the artist and his contemporaries. ▲ The Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Samsung Newsroom sat down with Jordy Howldar, Head of Business Development Asia at the Van Gogh Museum, to discuss how technology is preserving Van Gogh’s legacy for future generations and how the partnership with Samsung Art Store has enhanced art accessibility. Democratizing Access to Art With Samsung Art Store Q: Could you give us an overview of your role at the Van Gogh Museum? As Head of Business Development Asia at the Van Gogh Museum, I am responsible for partnerships and licensing in Asia. My work primarily involves building the museum’s presence within the Asian market, collaborating with notable brands to expand reach and managing these partnerships to ensure they align with the values and goals of the Van Gogh Museum. Q: The relationship between Samsung Art Store and the Van Gogh Museum dates back to 2018. Since then, has the museum changed how it selects art pieces to feature in Samsung Art Store? Our approach when selecting art pieces for Samsung Art Store has evolved since 2018. Now, we carefully consider the preferences and trends among global audiences and aim to showcase a diverse collection of Van Gogh’s work that resonates with different cultures and tastes. Over the years, Van Gogh’s art has become immensely popular with The Frame users — as both his famous pieces and lesser-known works have attracted massive viewership. ▲ “Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat” (1887) Q: What is the significance of making Van Gogh’s work available to large audiences through a platform like Samsung Art Store? Platforms such as Samsung Art Store democratize access to art, allowing people to experience Van Gogh’s creativity without needing to travel. In addition, his pieces are exposed to new audiences who might not otherwise have the opportunity to engage with them. Half a Century of Immortalizing Artistic Excellence Q: How is the Van Gogh Museum celebrating its 50th anniversary? To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the museum is organizing special exhibitions, events and educational programs to reflect on past achievements and anticipate future contributions to the art world. We encourage everyone to join the celebrations by attending our collaborations and exhibitions — such as the one with Pokémon which runs until January 2024. Earlier this year, we held the Sunflower Art Festival to celebrate the anniversary. ▲ “Sunflowers” (1889) Q: What are some of the most memorable or significant moments in the Van Gogh Museum’s 50-year history? For our first anniversary, the museum held an exhibition for visitors to explore the history of the institute. Without the unconditional support from the Van Gogh family, the museum simply would not exist. Q: Of the pieces selected for Samsung Art Store, which ones would you recommend users display on The Frame? The first would be “Wheatfield Under Thunderclouds,” a striking painting illustrating a dark, brooding sky and a golden wheatfield. When displayed on The Frame, the dramatic contrast captures the emotional intensity and turbulence that Van Gogh originally felt. ▲ “Wheatfield Under Thunderclouds” (1890) Next, I’d recommend “Fishing Boats on the Beach at Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.” The vibrant blue shades of the sea and sky juxtaposed against the colorful boats makes this painting ideal for The Frame. The screen’s ability to render vibrant colors brings the scene to life, enhancing the painting’s lively and dynamic nature. ▲ “Fishing Boats on the Beach at Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer” (1888) My third pick would be “Landscape at Twilight,” a painting depicting a twilight sky and rural landscape. The Frame’s display accurately captures these subtle nuances in colors — making the idyllic piece a calming addition to any room. ▲ “Landscape at Twilight” (1890) Preserving Legacy With Technology Q: How has technology impacted the Van Gogh Museum since its opening in 1973? Our mission is to inspire diverse audiences with the art and life of Vincent van Gogh, and we are always searching for new ways to do so. As such, we’ve incorporated new technologies both inside the museum and online to further preserve Van Gogh’s legacy for future generations. Q: How does The Frame elevate the viewing experience of art? The focus of the museum has always been to showcase our expansive Van Gogh collection. Offering this collection of masterpieces on The Frame gives users an opportunity to enjoy Vincent van Gogh’s world-famous paintings from home. Of course, we hope people will also be inspired to come and enjoy the art in person at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam as well. Q: In December, Samsung Art Store will feature a curated Van Gogh collection called “Van Gogh in Winter.” What can viewers expect to see in this collection? We are thrilled to bring a carefully crafted selection of artwork to Samsung Art Store. Each masterpiece — from the vivid “The Bedroom” to the serene “Snow-Covered Field with a Harrow (after Millet)” — encapsulates Van Gogh’s revolutionary use of color and emotive landscapes. The “Van Gogh in Winter” collection offers a unique window into Van Gogh’s world, showcasing his evolution as an artist and his enduring impact on art history. We invite viewers to immerse themselves in these classic works and experience Van Gogh’s art in a new vibrant, digital format. ▲ “The Bedroom” (1888) ▲ “Snow-Covered Field with a Harrow (after Millet)” (1890) Q: Are there any upcoming events at the museum? Visitors can enjoy the special “Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum” activities in the museum until January 7, 2024. “Matthew Wong l Vincent van Gogh: Painting as a Last Resort” will then open in early March — a temporary exhibition inviting attendees to discover the colorful and expressive art of Matthew Wong and his artistic connection with Vincent van Gogh. Visit Samsung Art Store in The Frame to see more of the Van Gogh collection. View the full article

Samsung Electronics announced a new update for Samsung TV Plus,1 its widely-used free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service. The latest version of Samsung TV Plus introduces user interface (UI) enhancements and new features, aimed at streamlining content discovery and elevating the user experience (UX). This update has been applied to cover 2,500 channels+ across all 24 countries where Samsung TV Plus is available. ▲ The latest Samsung TV Plus update features new features and a user interface (UI) overhaul to allow for better content discovery New UI Dedicated to Expanding Content Discovery The new Samsung TV Plus update includes a redesigned home screen to provide an overview of content available for viewing, in addition to popular titles and recently watched content. The updated UI also features newly added categories on the left side of the home screen to include sections such as Live TV, Movies/TV Shows, Music, Kids and Settings, and more. Each category offers a broad range of content that can be easily accessed at any time. Additionally, region-specific tabs have been added based on each region’s content catalogue and user preference to meet the needs of different markets: Music tab for the U.S., Australia, New Zealand Kids tab for the U.S., Europe, Brazil, Mexico, India News tab for India with multilingual support ▲ A Kids tab has been added to the U.S., Europe, Brazil, Mexico and India markets Streamlined Channel Navigation The updated interface features larger UI elements to improve the browsing experience, allowing users to easily navigate through an ever-expanding library of TV channels. Moreover, users can log into their Samsung accounts to easily access their favorite channels in one place at the top of the channel guide. ▲ Channel navigation becomes more intuitive with the new Samsung TV Plus update Enhanced VOD Experience The latest update also expands the Video on Demand (VOD) offerings and features of Samsung TV Plus. Now, users can access VOD from the channel guide, enabling instant playback of select programs without having to wait for a specific episode to come on the channel.2 The new “More Like This” feature offers content suggestion based on users’ viewing history, providing tailored content discovery that aligns with their preferences. ▲ The latest Samsung TV Plus update includes a variety of VOD content “Over the past year, we have witnessed a 60% increase in global viewing time on Samsung TV Plus — a testament to the platform’s expansive content library and user-friendly design,” said Yonghoon Choi, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue to evolve and enhance our services to provide a more intuitive and enjoyable viewing experience for our users.” For more information on Samsung TV Plus, please visit www.samsung.com. About Samsung TV Plus Samsung TV Plus is Samsung’s free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) and video-on-demand service which offers over 2,500 channels globally as well as thousands of shows and movies on-demand spanning news, sports, entertainment, auto, design and more. One of the first FAST platforms from a device manufacturer, Samsung TV Plus is directly integrated into all 2016-2023 Samsung TVs, available on Samsung Galaxy mobile devices and Samsung Family Hub refrigerators on selected regions. ​ 1 The latest update, Samsung TV Plus version 5.2, will be available on all Samsung Smart TVs released in 2019 or later. 2 If content is available for both linear channel programs and VOD. View the full article