How Samsung Integrates Accessibility into Its Home Appliances

Samsung Electronics is advancing its mission of “AI for All” by continually developing home appliances designed to be both intuitive and convenient for a wide range of users. This effort is significantly reflected in the company’s dedication to creating accessibility features aimed at making these appliances easier to use for individuals with disabilities and older adults. This commitment is part of Samsung’s broader focus on inclusive design.

### The Philosophy of Accessibility in Design

To delve deeper into these advancements, Samsung Newsroom engaged in a conversation with Bona Lee, Vice President and Head of Customer eXperience (CX) Insight Group at Digital Appliances Business, Samsung Electronics. Lee shared insights into the latest accessibility features in Samsung’s home appliances and the underlying philosophy that drives their development.

The design of home appliances typically involves various sensory inputs, such as sight, sound, and touch, alongside cognitive functions like making selections and adjusting settings, as well as physical actions like pulling, pushing, or lifting. For some users, these tasks can be challenging.

Samsung aims to reduce these barriers to usability to ensure everyone can access all features and benefit from the latest technologies. As part of their commitment to inclusive design, Samsung provides tailored solutions for different accessibility needs, such as tactile stickers for buttons, audio cues for users with visual impairments, and control panels positioned at heights accessible to wheelchair users.

### Notable Accessibility Features

The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is a prime example of Samsung’s progress in this area. Unlike previous models, which required users to turn a dial and strain to read small text to select a cycle, the new model features a built-in digital screen with large, easy-to-read fonts. AI technology further enhances usability by prioritizing frequently used cycles at the top of the menu.

Moreover, SmartThings routines empower individuals with limited mobility by automating device control. A simple voice command like “I’m going to sleep” can turn off lights and appliances, creating a more comfortable and accessible home environment.

### 2025 Bespoke AI Appliance Lineup

The 2025 lineup of Bespoke AI appliances introduces several new accessibility features. Bixby, Samsung’s virtual assistant, can now recognize individual voices using Voice ID technology and provide accessibility settings tailored to each person. Additionally, with built-in microphones and speakers, users can ask Bixby about the appliance’s status and receive key alerts via voice responses.

One of the standout features, the Auto Open Door function, is particularly praised by users with limited mobility. This feature has been expanded to more products, including refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, and dishwashers. A light tap or simple voice command like “Open the [device] door” provides easy, hands-free access.

### Collaborations and Future Endeavors

Samsung is actively collaborating with various organizations to identify and address real-world accessibility challenges. The company receives objective evaluations and expert guidance from numerous professional organizations, including the Korea Center for Accessibility Assessment & Research. Accessibility features for screen-equipped appliances, such as voice guidance and improved visibility, are being developed in alignment with the European Accessibility Act, which is set to take effect shortly.

Internal collaboration is also crucial. The Samsung Family Supporters group, consisting of employees with disabilities and those with family members who have disabilities, plays an active role in shaping accessibility initiatives. Furthermore, the newly established Accessibility Employee Resource Group (ERG) within the Device eXperience Business fosters open dialogue by encouraging members to share real-life experiences and ideas to improve accessibility across Samsung’s products and services.

### Outcomes of Collaborative Efforts

Feedback from visually impaired users revealed that while voice guidance for SmartThings-connected appliances was beneficial, the initial device connection process was challenging. To address this, Samsung improved the SmartThings app and partnered with TUAT Corp., the developer of the AI-powered visual assistance app Sullivan Plus, to introduce a dedicated mode that recognizes Samsung appliances and helps users easily connect them to SmartThings.

In addition, Samsung has developed assistive tools based on ideas and feedback from employees and the Samsung Family Supporters group. Designs for these tools are shared on ITDA, a public platform for customizing and 3D-printing assistive devices. One example is a stick-on handle for drawers, designed to support users with limited hand mobility. Development continues toward creating more automated assistive solutions that offer even greater convenience.

### Advancing the Vision of “AI for All”

Samsung’s vision of “AI for All” is about ensuring the benefits of technology are seamlessly integrated into everyday life, regardless of a user’s physical abilities or environment. It involves transforming individual features into connected, inclusive experiences that enhance life for everyone.

Looking ahead, Samsung plans to continue embedding universal design principles that prioritize inclusivity into product development. This includes gathering input from diverse user groups during the planning stage, leveraging user data to identify new opportunities, and collaborating with both internal and external experts and organizations to create more meaningful solutions.

As AI capabilities in home appliances evolve, the aim is to create a truly intelligent in-home experience—one that understands each user, their family, and their environment by automating tasks and reducing the need for manual input. Rather than addressing diversity with isolated features, Samsung strives to deliver integrated, all-in-one solutions that adapt to any situation.

This vision of innovation—where accessibility and technology converge to serve everyone—is encapsulated in the phrase “Universal Accessibility, Universal Technology.” It is a future where technology not only serves but also empowers, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.

In summary, Samsung is steadfast in its pursuit of making home appliances more accessible, ensuring that its technological advancements benefit everyone, thereby creating a world where technology and inclusivity coexist harmoniously.
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