SmartThings Analytics: Product Usage Insights
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By Samsung Newsroom
The Samsung Galaxy Watch is an essential gadget for modern health-conscious people. It provides health-related data that helps to prevent health issues. These Galaxy Watch features are driving its rapid rise in popularity and encouraging application developers to create applications specifically for it.
The Galaxy Watch offers a great user experience and performance. This is where the Flutter framework plays a crucial role. It is a top choice when it comes to a beautiful UI, good performance, and rapid development. Flutter offers cross-platform support, which means we can build applications for multiple platforms using a single code base. With Flutter’s strong community support, developers can make production-grade applications with little effort.
This blog outlines the steps involved in creating an application for the Galaxy Watch using Flutter, allowing you to explore the possibilities it offers.
Set up your environment
Please follow the official Set up Flutter guide to install the Flutter framework correctly on your device. After the installation, please check the status by running the following command. It tells you if any component is missing or suggests what to do next.
flutter doctor NoteIf the above command provides suggestions or fixes, follow those to solve any problems before continuing. Get started with Flutter projects
To simplify this application example, we are retrieving the battery levels from a Galaxy Watch to make it easy to understand the development process.
In this blog, we use Android Studio as the IDE. But, if you are comfortable with VS Code, you can follow this Official Codelab to build your first Flutter application with that instead.
To start, install the Flutter and Dart plugins on Android Studio. These plugins make it easier to manage Flutter development using the UI instead of the CLI.
Figure 1: Install Flutter and Dart plugins
After completing the setup, it is time to create the Flutter Project for Galaxy Watch.
Go to File > New > New Flutter Project. Note that this method only appears if you installed the plugins mentioned above. Select Flutter from the left side panel and set the Flutter SDK path where it was installed during the Flutter setup, and click the Next button. Enter a project name and location, and choose the language according to your preferences. Uncheck all platform options except Android and keep the other options as they are. Click the Create button, and a new window should open with the project. You are now done. Next, we need to modify the code for Galaxy Watch.
Break down the elements of a Flutter project
A simple Flutter project for the Android platform contains the following folders:
android/: Contains Android platform code and configurations. lib/: The main folder for a Flutter application. It contains your Dart code. The main.dart file is the entry point of a Flutter application. pubspec.yaml: A configuration file for Flutter. It manages the application’s dependencies and assets. Configure the project to support Galaxy Watch
Let’s modify the generated code to include the battery level, allowing it to be displayed. Open the pubspec.yaml file and add the following plugins under dependencies:
dependencies: flutter: sdk: flutter wear: ^1.1.0 battery_plus: ^6.0.3 We use the wear and battery_plus plugins for this project. The wear plugin provides APIs for wear-related functionality, and battery_plus is for accessing battery information from the OS. Both plugins were developed by the Flutter Community. You can even get battery information or trigger Wear OS native APIs using the Method Channel, which we will cover in our future blogs.
Change the value of minSdk to 23, which is required for the plugins that we are using. Go to android > app > build.gradle and change the minSdk property value under defaultConfig.
defaultConfig { applicationId = "com.example.flutter_app" minSdk = 23 targetSdk = flutter.targetSdkVersion versionCode = flutterVersionCode.toInteger() versionName = flutterVersionName } Add the following code to your AndroidManifest.xml file, above the <application> tag. This tag defines that we are building the application for watches.
<manifest xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android"> <uses-feature android:name="android.hardware.type.watch" /> <application android:label="galaxy_watch_battery_info" Build the watch application
The main challenge is crafting your application to fit a tiny screen. We must be aware of good practices regarding UI, UX, and compactness at the same time. But as mentioned, this application is a simple one.
Here we work with the build function of the MyHomePage class, where the UI implementation is applied. The main() function is the starting point for a Flutter application. It triggers the build function sequentially. Refer to the following build method for an example.
@override Widget build(BuildContext context) { return MaterialApp( title: 'Galaxy Watch Demo', theme: ThemeData( visualDensity: VisualDensity.compact, useMaterial3: true, colorSchemeSeed: const Color(0x9f4376f8), ), home: Scaffold( body: SafeArea( child: _getWatchView(context), ), ), ); } The widgets we use are:
MaterialApp: The root widget that contains all the contents of the application UI and provides application functionalities like home, theming, navigations, localizations, and so on. Scaffold: It provides a visual layout structure for an application, which has options like an app bar and body. SafeArea: A widget that encircles its child to ensure it avoids overlap with the OS interface. Tailor the UI
We can now access the WatchShape widget since we converted our application to a watch application. WatchShape is the key widget for watch UI design. It provides the basic interface shapes for watches along with ambient modes of the watch. As mentioned earlier, the UI has a simple button that queries the battery level and shows it in a dialog.
Widget _getWatchView(BuildContext context) { return WatchShape( builder: (BuildContext context, WearShape shape, Widget? child) { return Center( child: Column( mainAxisAlignment: MainAxisAlignment.center, crossAxisAlignment: CrossAxisAlignment.center, children: [const Text("Hello from Galaxy Watch"), ElevatedButton(onPressed: () { _battery.batteryLevel.then((batteryLevel) { showDialog<void>(context: context, builder: (_) => AlertDialog( content: Text('Battery: $batteryLevel%'), actions: <Widget>[ TextButton( onPressed: () { Navigator.pop(context); }, child: const Text('OK'), ) ])); }); }, child: const Text('Get battery level'))]) ); }, ); } The widgets we use are:
WatchShape: This widget makes the UI compact to fit the watch’s small screen. battery.batteryLevel: To access the battery information, we need to create an instance of the Battery class. Please refer to the following code as an example. final Battery _battery = Battery(); Test the application
Now it’s time to see how your application works. Save all the changes and run the application by clicking the Run button from the “Main Toolbar.” You should see a new UI titled “Hello from Galaxy Watch” with a single button. You have created a Flutter application for a Galaxy Watch. Congratulations!
Figure 2: Sample application
Conclusion
This blog walked you through building an application for Galaxy Watch. Flutter offers an amazing toolkit for crafting beautiful UIs. Within a short time you can build applications on a device to accomplish what you want.
Don’t forget to experiment with building applications and enjoy the journey of creating something new for Galaxy Watches. For more tips and tricks on Galaxy Watch application development, please keep your eyes on the Samsung Developer portal.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Earlier this year, SmartThings announced a new program called Certification by Similarity (CbS) within our Works with Samsung SmartThings (WWST) partner program. This program is designed for Smart Home OEM’s to be able to certify portfolios of products, rather than certifying each product one by one.
Additionally, we released a new developer feature called Product Cloning, which allows partners to input the details of one product and copy for all the similar products.
Many of our device manufacturing partners have a portfolio of devices that have the same smart technology on the inside but come in many different shapes, colors, and other variations. We are making it easier and more cost efficient than ever to certify the entire portfolio.
After releasing this new certification option, we have heard excellent reviews from our partners. Read on to discover how to take advantage of this new offering.
Product Cloning
SmartThings Product Cloning allows you to enter information for one product and clone it to generate multiple entries for all similar products. The similar products include all the critical information — all you need to do is update the unique identifiers, like the Matter Product ID and Model Number.
Easily copy product details and enter whole product lines
Save time and get certified faster
Get Started
How to clone a product:
Visit the SmartThings Certification Console. Navigate to the Products page (second icon from the top on the left). Enter your product details for one product and save it. Navigate back to the Products page. Under the Actions menu on the product, you have an option to create multiple products at once with Product Cloning.
You can add up to 10 clones with the option to enter the unique identifiers. Once created, the clones appear in your Products list; you can open them up and modify any of the details before submitting for WWST Certification.
WWST Certification by Similarity
Certification by Similarity (CbS) allows you to reduce your WWST certification time and cost by identifying related products with similar core functionality but with different model numbers and minor differences like colors, shapes, or regional variations.
Example Certification by Similarity use case with a portfolio of RGBW, RGB, and white balance light bulbs:
Start by submitting a primary product for certification that is a superset of all the portfolio features — such as one of the RGBW light bulbs. Once the primary product testing is complete, the similar devices — such as the RGB and white balance light bulbs — can get fast-tracked through certification, for free. Additional devices can be either submitted at the same time as the primary product or at a later date. All you need to do is submit the product information and link it with the primary product. We then verify that the features are the same as your primary product and grant you certification.
Devices that Can Be Considered for CbS
The following criteria must be met for the devices to be considered for CbS:
Note: Cloud Connected Devices may have different Device Profiles and still be considered for Certification by Similarity. This is possible only if the Capabilities for similar products are a subset of the primary product. If a similar device has additional Capabilities, partial testing is required.
Learn more about CbS in the Developer Documentation and Certification Console.
Get Started
How to submit similar products for WWST:
Visit the SmartThings Certification Console. Navigate to the Certifications page. Submit your primary product for certification. Navigate back to the Certifications page and select the target similar product to certify. You now have the option to link this submission with the primary product. Select the associated primary product and submit your product for certification.
Certification by Similarity FAQs
How is the primary product determined?
→ The primary product has all the Capabilities of other devices in the group. In this example, Product 4 or Product 5 could be the primary.
How can we guarantee CbS will be approved before submitting for WWST certification?
→ We recommend following the guidelines in the Developer Documentation. The WWST team makes the final decision after reviewing your submission.
Should I submit the primary product and wait for it to be fully certified before submitting secondary devices to be considered for CbS, or can all of the products be submitted together?
→ When submitting products, you do not need to wait. You can submit the primary product and similar products at the same time.
I have multiple brands, including some that have the same hardware and firmware. Can CbS be extended to these multiple brands?
→ In order to be considered for CbS, products must contain the same brand. View our documentation to review the CbS program requirements.
How does the publication / timing work for CbS devices compared to the primary product?
→ See our Publish Your Device guide on publication/timing.
Want to integrate your device(s) with SmartThings? Visit our Developer Center to get started and access Product Cloning and Certification by Similarity tools.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Engagement Data to Guide Product Development
What is SmartThings Analytics?
With our recent update, once you become Works with SmartThings certified, you can use SmartThings Analytics to gather useful data about how your products are being used in the field with PII-safe engagement data. The best part: you can see information like the number of registered and active devices, where your customers are located, and the SmartThings Capabilities that are most commonly used — which helps inform how customers interact with your products.
Leverage these insights to optimize your products and product roadmap.
Why Should Developers and Product Teams Use SmartThings Analytics?
We are always looking for ways to better connect partners with our millions of users.
We know that it can be difficult to collect user engagement data — especially for partners who manufacture Hub Connected devices.
Last year, we announced our first version of Analytics, which included Registered and Active devices. After obtaining Works with SmartThings certification, partners can easily access SmartThings Analytics from the Console.
Since receiving positive feedback on the first version of Analytics, we’ve continued to improve performance and expand the type of data partners can access. New this year, we are providing both country-level data and Capability level use. With Capability data, you can answer questions about the most commonly used features of your product, like “Are users actually changing the color of their lights?”
Leverage these insights to drive better outcomes for your products and users, and optimize your products based on real user interactions.
Key Features of SmartThings Analytics
Real-world Usage Data: SmartThings Analytics makes it easy to know if your users are engaged with your products by providing real-world usage data, which we’ve built in a way that gives you actionable data while still protecting the privacy of users’ data.
User-friendly Interface: With an intuitive and user-friendly interface, the Analytics tool ensures a seamless experience for product owners and developers of all levels.
Multiple Ways to Gain Insights: Easily search by an individual product or your entire catalog, within one country or within a region. Or choose to go back as far as 7, 30, 90 days, or with a custom date range. Lastly, see which SmartThings "Capabilities" are being used — there are plenty of ways to get actionable engagement data to drive product decisions.
Product Questions that SmartThings Analytics Answers
Where am I getting most of my product sales? In which countries do I have the most active user base? What features / SmartThings Capabilities do my customers use the most? Which are used the least? How many active devices do I have compared to registered devices? How are the active devices and registered devices trending over time? Did device registrations go up after our recent marketing campaign? Or after the event where we showcased our brand?
How to Get Started with SmartThings Analytics?
Ready to view Analytics for your device(s)? Here's a quick resource guide to help you get started and show you the features:
1. Begin by Accessing Analytics
Analytics is only available to partners who have Works with SmartThings (WWST) certified products.
Visit the SmartThings Developer Console and navigate to the Analytics section, accessible at SmartThings Developer Console.
Keep reading for a screen-by-screen walkthrough, or check out this video.
If you have a WWST certified product(s) , but do not have access to the Console, email us at [email protected].
2. Set Up Your Search Parameters
With Analytics you can search by:
Product(s): Search by one product or all to see a portfolio view of how your products are being used.
Date: See the last 7, 30, or 90 days of data, or choose a custom data range.
Location: View data by county or region.
3. View Data for Insights
Registered Devices: View devices that are registered with SmartThings.
Active Devices: View devices with an event or an online status in the last 24 hours. Devices may go from the inactive state to the active state and vice versa.
Capabilities: See SmartThings Capabilities that are being used for your product or products. Get a glimpse of which capabilities are the most used.
Geo Location: View by country or region.
See where your products are being used by country or by region.
Any of these fields can be made full screen or zoomed in on. The data can be also exported as a CSV.
Our latest update with Analytics represents another avenue for providing more value for WWST Certified partners. Access to this variety of usage data is critical to understanding how your products are being used.
Ready to gain more product insights? Navigate to Analytics in the Certification Console to see these insights and apply them to your product strategy.
Want to integrate your device with SmartThings? Visit https://developer.smartthings.com to access tools like Edge Builder and Test Suite, and then leverage our Certification Console to get your device(s) certified.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics today announced that eight product series1 in its 2024 Neo QLED 4K and 8K, OLED, and The Frame lineups have received the “Product Carbon Reduction” certification from TÜV Rheinland, the international independent third-party testing, inspection, and certification organization. The certification demonstrates the carbon footprint reduction ratio of these products compared to the previous year’s model, serving as a testament to the company’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions year-over-year.
“As the world’s leading TV manufacturer, it is our responsibility to create products that both redefine TV capabilities while advancing sustainability efforts,” said Yongjae Kim, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics.
“Congratulations to Samsung Electronics. The issuance of Product Carbon Reduction certification demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its actual implementation efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change,” said Frank Holzmann, Global Vice President of TÜV Rheinland Business Field Electrical, “This recognition will undoubtedly enhance the brand’s reputation and customer trust, further solidifying its position as a leading player in the global electronics market.”
TÜV Rheinland evaluated greenhouse gas emissions for Samsung’s TV products throughout their life cycle- “from Cradle to Grave” — ranging from manufacturing, transportation, use to disposal, in accordance with the internationally recognized standards such as ISO 14067 and ISO 14064-4 as well as TÜV Rheinland’s self-developed standard 2 PfG Q2880/09.23. It verifies and certifies that all of eight TV product series meet the carbon reduction standard requirement set by TÜV Rheinland. The newly certified products include two Neo QLED 8K series, three Neo QLED 4K series, two OLED series and one series of The Frame.
In addition to product certification, Samsung’s Visual Display Business obtained the display and consumer electronics industry’s first “Product Carbon Footprint Calculation Method” certification from TÜV Rheinland. This certification measures and manages greenhouse gas emissions throughout the complete life cycle of a product, collecting and analyzing data in accordance with management regulations and stipulated execution manuals to calculate greenhouse gas emissions and ensure transparent and reproducible results.
As Samsung continues its work to reduce the environmental impact of its products, it aims to achieve TÜV Rheinland’s “Product Carbon Footprint” and “Product Carbon Reduction” certifications for over 60 models in 2024, including newly introduced soundbars. With these eight product series’ carbon reduction result and analysis report, Samsung has more confidence and clear direction in the development and design of the next generation decarbonized TV product.
This recognition builds on previous acknowledgements of Samsung’s sustainability efforts. It obtained its first “Reducing CO2” certification from the Carbon Trust in 2021 for Neo QLED 4K and higher resolution TVs. In 2022, 11 TV models and five monitor and signage products achieved the “Reducing CO2” certification, and most recently, 24 models across Samsung’s 2023 lineup were certified by the Carbon Trust and TÜV Rheinland.
For more information on Samsung’s 2024 TV lineup, please visit www.samsung.com.
1 Neo QLED 8K (QN900D, QN800D), Neo QLED 4K (QN95D, QN90D, QN85DA), OLED (S95D, S90D), and The Frame (LS03D)
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