Samsung applies upgraded Bixby to AI-powered home appliances

A Samsung Electronics model showcases the ‘Bespoke AI Appliances’ with Bixby voice control. [Courtesy of Samsung Electronics Co.]

Samsung Electronics Co. announced on Monday that it will apply updated voice assistant Bixby to its home appliances starting Tuesday.

The upgraded Bixby can understand commands that consist of multiple or unrelated requests in one sentence through a feature called “Multi-Intent,” providing easier device control for users, the company said.

For example, if a user says, “Set the air conditioner to 26 degrees and finish the laundry by 5 p.m.,” Bixby will carry out both tasks.

Another key feature, “Multi-Turn,” allows Bixby to remember contexts of past conversations, allowing users to engage in ongoing dialogues with devices rather than issuing isolated commands.

For instance, if a user asks, “How much energy did the washing machine save this month?” and then follows up with, “Oh, and what are the usage fees?” it will understand and respond to both queries.

Bixby also provides assistance to users when they encounter problems while using appliances or become curious about certain cycles or features.

For example, if a user asks, “How do I clean the washing machine drum?” or “How do I change the air conditioner filter?” it will provide the necessary instructions.

If the user inquires about washing methods for special items like golf attire or baby clothes, it will also recommend the appropriate washing cycle.

Samsung Electronics will provide the update to five products launched this year – the Bespoke 4-Door Refrigerator with AI Family Hu; Bespoke AI Laundry Combo, Bespoke Slide-in Range; Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI; and Bespoke AI WindFree Gallery Freestanding Air Conditioner.

The company plans to expand the range of products with this update gradually.

The refrigerators with Family Hub, launched in Korea and the U.S. after 2022, are also being upgraded with a new feature that generates custom background images.

Users can select a theme and style to create personalized images.

“Samsung’s home appliances have been developed and are evolving in a way that can elevate the user experience,” said Yoo Mi-young, executive vice president and head of Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics.

“By introducing the upgraded Bixby, we look forward to enhancing consumers’ lives, enabling easier use of their appliances as well as providing a better, more personalized user experience.”