Samsung has launched a beta program to help use older Galaxy phones. Owners of certain phones can download an update to turn the device into a smart home sensor with a few neat features – it can detect the sound of a crying baby or turn on a lamp when it gets dark. The program is limited to certain models released in 2018 or later, which is quite limited, but it is a nice, affordable offering that could help users use a little more of their old devices.
Announced at CES earlier this year, the company launches the program in the US, UK and Korea starting today. By downloading a software update through the SmartThings application, users can access two basic functions. The first is an audio sensor that detects the sound of a baby crying, barking or yelling at a pet or knocking on a door. When it detects one of these, it sends an alert to your phone with a sound recording.
The other function is a light level sensor that can automatically turn on a connected light when the brightness levels in a room fall below a certain threshold. Samsung says the update includes optimizing the battery needed to keep the phone powered and running as a sensor for long periods of time, although the company does not specify how long it could run between charges.
Galaxy S, Note and Z series phones launched starting in 2018 are eligible, provided they run Android 9 or later. Samsung says more devices will be accepted in the future, which hopefully includes more budget-oriented devices that owners may be less likely to trade. And if these limited features don’t appeal, you can do a lot more with your old phone if you don’t mind a DIY approach.