In Kenya, households have unique challenges, from energy management to busy family schedules. How is Samsung using AI in home appliances to make everyday life easier for local consumers?

Samuel Odhiambo, the Head of Consumer Electronics Division – Samsung, answers these questions….

Kenya’s families have diverse needs, from managing electricity bills to balancing demanding schedules. Samsung smart appliances which are part of the Bespoke AI or Smart Things AI ecosystem are designed with these realities in mind. For instance, our Bespoke AI refrigerators have hybrid cooling where cooling is optimized based on usage patterns, our washing machines suggest the most efficient cycles, adapt to room occupancy. These smart features savetime, energy, and giving families peace of mind in their daily routines.

• Many people are curious about AI but may not know how it impacts their homes day-to-day. Can you share examples of how Samsung appliances intelligently adapt to the needs of Kenyan families?

Absolutely. With Samsung’s SmartThings AI ecosystem, you can connect your appliances directly to your Galaxy phone and control them from anywhere. For instance, some of our AI Wash–enabled washing machines let you start cycles, adjust settings, or get usage recommendations straight from your phone. They can also detect load types and automatically select water levels and wash cycles, reducing waste and energy use. Similarly, our Bespoke AI–powered refrigerators in Kenya learn which compartments are used most and adjust cooling to preserve food longer. Even smaller details, like smart notifications for filter replacements or maintenance, help households stay ahead of problems before they happen, keeping your home running efficiently and conveniently.

• Globally, Samsung showcased its AI innovations at CES in Las Vegas this year. What were some of the most exciting developments there, and how do they connect to the products we see in Kenya?

CES 2026 was a showcase of how AI is shaping the future of homes worldwide. Samsung presented innovations like AI companions for the kitchen, energy-efficient smart appliances, and even home robots that learn from user behavior. While some of these technologies are still in early stages globally, the key takeaway is that the intelligence behind these products is already making its way into appliances we bring to markets like Kenya, ensuring that families here benefit from global innovation adapted for local needs. It’s proof that Samsung is leading the conversation on AI in the home.

• Looking ahead, how is Samsung planning to bring AI innovations from its global R&D into African markets? Are there specific features or technologies we can expect in the near future?

Our goal is to bridge global innovation with local realities. We’re focused on features that matter most in African households: energy efficiency, durability, smart monitoring, and easy usability. In the near future, we plan to expand our AI-enabled appliances that predict maintenance needs, optimize energy usage, and integrate seamlessly with mobile apps, so even in Kenya, families can enjoy appliances that think ahead and adapt to their lives.

• As AI continues to evolve, what role does Samsung want to play in shaping the future of home appliances both globally and in Africa?

Samsung sees itself as more than a manufacturer; we are a global innovator shaping the way people interact with technology in their homes. Our aim is to make AI accessible, practical, and transformative, not just in Silicon Valley or Seoul, but in Kenya and across Africa. By combining global R&D with local insights, we want every household to experience appliances that understand, adapt, and make life easier, because Samsung is a trusted partner in the everyday lives of our consumers.