Samsung Family Hub Refrigerators Now Display Advertisements, Breaking Prior Promises
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Samsung is rolling out an update to its Family hub line of smart refrigerators that introduces advertisements on the devices’ touchscreen displays, reversing previous assurances to customers. the move has sparked immediate backlash from owners who purchased the premium appliances-priced around $1,800-under the understanding they would be ad-free.
The Family Hub refrigerators, known for thier internet connectivity and touchscreen interfaces, function as central hubs for families to manage shopping lists, view recipes, and access other digital content. Samsung initially positioned the refrigerators as a convenient, connected kitchen solution, and explicitly stated it had no intention of incorporating advertisements.
However, a recent changelog detailing the update states the advertisements are intended to “enhance our service and offer additional content to users.” According to Samsung, personalized ads will appear on the Daily Board, Color, and Weather themes for users in the U.S. The company clarified to Android Authority that the rollout is currently a “pilot program,” and the ad format may vary based on personalization settings.Ads will not appear when the Cover Screen is displaying Art Mode or picture albums.
Users will only be able to dismiss unwanted advertisements, with no option to opt-out entirely.The change has drawn criticism from consumers who feel the addition of ads devalues the premium experience they paid for.
It remains unclear which specific Family Hub models will receive the update and the scope of the pilot program. Consumers seeking alternatives can explore other smart refrigerator brands currently available on the market.
