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By Samsung Newsroom
Health and fitness are the most popular features for Galaxy Watches running Wear OS powered by Samsung. Implementing these features requires a continuous data stream to work effectively and seamlessly.
One of the most common challenges third-party developers face is keeping a sensor like the heart rate monitor active, even when the watch screen is off.
By default, Wear OS efficiently optimizes power consumption to extend usage time. As part of this optimization, sensor data collection may stop when the screen is off. This presents a challenge for applications that require continuous monitoring, such as health trackers, workout assistants, or medical-grade wearables.
What Happens When the Screen Turns Off
When a Galaxy Watch screen turns off, the system enters a low-power state to preserve battery. During this time:
The CPU may slow down or suspend execution of background threads. Registered sensor listeners can stop receiving updates. Any active work in your Activity pauses. To keep sensor data flowing, your application needs two things:
A foreground service to keep your code running in the background. A wake lock to prevent the CPU from going into a deep sleep state. This tutorial shows how to create a simple Galaxy Watch application that continuously collects heart rate data, even when the screen is off, using a foreground service and a wake lock and all the code examples are provided in a downloadable sample application.
Let's Start Coding
Step 1: Create a New Wear OS Project
Open Android Studio and create new project from scratch:
Go to File > New > New Project > Wear OS Tab > Empty Wear App. Fill in the project details in the New Project window.
Figure 1: Create a new wearable application in Android Studio
Click Finish and wait for Gradle sync to complete. Step 2: Configure Permissions in AndroidManifest.xml
In the AndroidManifest.xml file, add the following permissions to access the heart rate sensor, foreground service, and wake lock.
<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.BODY_SENSORS" /> <uses-permission android:name="android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE" /> <uses-permission android:name="android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE_HEALTH" /> <uses-permission android:name="android.permission.WAKE_LOCK" /> <uses-permission android:name=" android.permission.BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND " /> <uses-feature android:name="android.hardware.type.watch" /> NoteThe BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND permission is required on Android 12 (API 31) and above for collecting sensor data when the application is not in the foreground. Register the SensorService in the manifest:
<service android:name=".SensorService" android:enabled="true" android:exported="false" android:foregroundServiceType="health" /> NoteIf you forget foregroundServiceType="health" in the manifest, your application will crash with a SecurityException on Android 10 (API 29) and above when trying to read sensors from a foreground service. Step 3: Design Your Watch UI Layout
The watch UI can be designed entirely according to your preference. In this content, only two buttons have been used to start and stop the service and a TextView to show the result to keep it simple. Wear OS screens are small, so keeping the layout simple is the best practice.
To implement the UI, edit app/res/layout/activity_main.xml.
The following code implements a sample UI:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> <androidx.constraintlayout.widget.ConstraintLayout xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android" xmlns:app="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res-auto" xmlns:tools="http://schemas.android.com/tools" android:layout_width="match_parent" android:layout_height="match_parent" android:padding="16dp" tools:context=".MainActivity" tools:deviceIds="wear"> <LinearLayout android:layout_width="match_parent" android:layout_height="match_parent" android:gravity="center" android:orientation="vertical"> <TextView android:id="@+id/heart_rate_text" android:layout_width="wrap_content" android:layout_height="wrap_content" android:text="--" android:textColor="#90EE90" android:textSize="24sp" android:layout_marginBottom="16dp"/> <Button android:id="@+id/start_button" android:layout_width="wrap_content" android:layout_height="wrap_content" android:text="@string/start_sensors" /> <Button android:id="@+id/stop_button" android:layout_width="wrap_content" android:layout_height="wrap_content" android:layout_marginTop="8dp" android:text="@string/stop_sensors" /> </LinearLayout> </androidx.constraintlayout.widget.ConstraintLayout> Step 4: Edit MainActivity.java
Inside MainActivity.java, sensor permissions must be requested at runtime.
onCreate() :
You need to initialize all the UI components inside the onCreate() method. This example uses two Button instances, for starting and stopping the service, and one TextView , for showing the result. Before staring the service, you have to check all the runtime permissions.
heartRateTextView = findViewById(R.id.heart_rate_text); //initialize globally to use it outside of the method Button startButton = findViewById(R.id.start_button); Button stopButton = findViewById(R.id.stop_button); if (startButton != null) { startButton.setOnClickListener(v -> { if (checkPermissions()) { if (checkBackgroundPermission()) { startSensorService(); } else { requestBackgroundPermission(); } } else { requestPermissions(); } }); } if (stopButton != null) { stopButton.setOnClickListener(v -> stopSensorService()); } In this application, when the user taps the start button, the application checks both permissions in sequence, and the stop button stops the service.
NoteOn Android 11 (API 30) and above, BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND must be requested as a separate step after foreground sensor permission is granted. The system does not grant this permission automatically.
checkPermissions() :
This method checks at runtime whether the BODY_SENSORS permission has been granted. On Galaxy Watch, the user must explicitly grant this permission on their device.
private boolean checkPermissions() { return ContextCompat.checkSelfPermission(this, Manifest.permission.BODY_SENSORS) == PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED; }
checkBackgroundPermission() :
This method checks for the BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND permission, which is essential for Wear OS 3+ devices (like Galaxy Watch 5, 6, 7) to access sensor data in all power states.
private boolean checkBackgroundPermission() { if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT >= Build.VERSION_CODES.Q) { return ContextCompat.checkSelfPermission(this, Manifest.permission.BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND) == PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED; } return true; }
startForegroundService() :
On Android 8 (Oreo) and above, you must call this method instead of startService() when starting a foreground service.
private void startSensorService() { Intent intent = new Intent(this, SensorService.class); if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT >= Build.VERSION_CODES.O) { startForegroundService(intent); } else { startService(intent); } Toast.makeText(this, "Sensor Service Started", Toast.LENGTH_SHORT).show(); }
stopSensorService() :
Once the task is completed, call this method to reduce battery drain.
private void stopSensorService() { Intent intent = new Intent(this, SensorService.class); stopService(intent); if (heartRateTextView != null) { heartRateTextView.setText("--"); } Toast.makeText(this, "Sensor Service Stopped", Toast.LENGTH_SHORT).show();
requestPermissions() :
This method prompts the user for the BODY_SENSORS permission before starting the service.
private void requestPermissions() { ActivityCompat.requestPermissions(this, new String[]{Manifest.permission.BODY_SENSORS}, PERMISSION_REQUEST_CODE); }
requestBackgroundPermission() :
This method prompts the user for the BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND permission. Since the sample application targets Android 13 (API level 33) or higher (currently set to 34), this permission is required if you want to access sensor data in the background, even when using a foreground service. Without it, the system can restrict or stop sensor data delivery when the application is not in the immediate foreground for an extended period.
private void requestBackgroundPermission() { if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT >= Build.VERSION_CODES.Q) { Toast.makeText(this, "Please allow 'All the time' sensor access in settings",Toast.LENGTH_LONG).show(); // On API 30+, background permission MUST be requested separately and // the user must be directed to settings manually in many cases, or through a system dialog. ActivityCompat.requestPermissions(this, new String[]{Manifest.permission.BODY_SENSORS_BACKGROUND}, BACKGROUND_PERMISSION_REQUEST_CODE); } } Override the onRequestPermissionsResult() method to handle the user's response to each permission request:
@Override public void onRequestPermissionsResult(int requestCode, @NonNull String[] permissions, @NonNull int[] grantResults) { super.onRequestPermissionsResult(requestCode, permissions, grantResults); if (requestCode == PERMISSION_REQUEST_CODE) { if (grantResults.length > 0 && grantResults[0] == PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED) { if (checkBackgroundPermission()) { startSensorService(); } else { requestBackgroundPermission(); } } else { Toast.makeText(this, "Permission denied to read sensors", Toast.LENGTH_SHORT).show(); } } else if (requestCode == BACKGROUND_PERMISSION_REQUEST_CODE) { if (grantResults.length > 0 && grantResults[0] == PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED) { startSensorService(); } else { Toast.makeText(this, "Background permission denied. Data collection may stop when app is not in foreground.", Toast.LENGTH_LONG).show(); // Optionally start service anyway, knowing it might be limited startSensorService(); } } } Even if the background permission is denied, the service is started. This allows heart rate collection to continue while the application is visible, though data collection may pause when it moves to the background.
BroadcastReceiver:
Send an intent with the heart rate value to update the UI components in real time. This should be outside of the onCreate() method.
private final BroadcastReceiver heartRateReceiver = new BroadcastReceiver() { @Override public void onReceive(Context context, Intent intent) { if (SensorService.ACTION_HEART_RATE_UPDATE.equals(intent.getAction())) { float heartRate = intent.getFloatExtra(SensorService.EXTRA_HEART_RATE, 0); if (heartRateTextView != null) { heartRateTextView.setText(String.format(Locale.getDefault(), "%.0f", heartRate)); } } } };
onResume() :
Register a BroadcastReceiver inside this method to catch updates and display them in a TextView element.
@Override protected void onResume() { super.onResume(); IntentFilter filter = new IntentFilter(SensorService.ACTION_HEART_RATE_UPDATE); if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT >= Build.VERSION_CODES.TIRAMISU) { registerReceiver(heartRateReceiver, filter, Context.RECEIVER_NOT_EXPORTED); } else { registerReceiver(heartRateReceiver, filter); } }
onDestroy() :
This method stops the service when the activity is destroyed, preventing a dangling service.
@Override protected void onDestroy() { stopSensorService(); super.onDestroy(); }
Step 5: Edit SensorService.java
This is the core of the tutorial. SensorService is a foreground service that registers a heart rate sensor listener and acquires a wake lock to keep the CPU active when the screen turns off.
onCreate() :
Initialize the SensorManager instance and request the wake-up sensor. Here, do not use the default sensor. Instead, request the wake-up version:
sensorManager = (SensorManager) getSystemService(Context.SENSOR_SERVICE); if (sensorManager != null) { // Attempt to get the wake-up version of the sensor heartRateSensor = sensorManager.getDefaultSensor(Sensor.TYPE_HEART_RATE, true); if (heartRateSensor == null) { Log.i(TAG, "Wake-up heart rate sensor not available, falling back to non-wake-up."); heartRateSensor = sensorManager.getDefaultSensor(Sensor.TYPE_HEART_RATE); } } Standard sensors stop sending data when the screen turns off. The true parameter ensures the sensor can wake up the processor to deliver data even in deep sleep.
onStartCommand() :
Execute the foreground service notification.
Promoting your service to the foreground is mandatory for the tracking to stay alive. This prevents Galaxy Watch from pausing your application after 60 seconds of screen-off time.
Promote Immediately: In onStartCommand(), promote the service to the foreground immediately to satisfy Android’s background limitations.
Build the Notification: Create a persistent notification that informs the user that heart rate tracking is active.
Specify Service Type: Android 10+ requires the FOREGROUND_SERVICE_TYPE_HEALTH type for health sensors.
Register Listener: Register the sensor listener to begin receiving heart rate events.
Check the code here:
@Override public int onStartCommand(Intent intent, int flags, int startId) { Notification notification = new NotificationCompat.Builder(this, CHANNEL_ID) .setContentTitle(getString(R.string.sensor_notification_title)) .setContentText(getString(R.string.sensor_notification_text)) .setSmallIcon(android.R.drawable.ic_menu_info_details) .setPriority(NotificationCompat.PRIORITY_DEFAULT) .build(); if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT >= Build.VERSION_CODES.Q) { startForeground(1, notification, ServiceInfo.FOREGROUND_SERVICE_TYPE_HEALTH); } else { startForeground(1, notification); } if (heartRateSensor != null) { sensorManager.registerListener(this, heartRateSensor, SensorManager.SENSOR_DELAY_UI); Log.d(TAG, "Heart rate sensor registered."); } else { Log.e(TAG, "Heart rate sensor not available."); } return START_STICKY; }
onSensorChanged() :
To process sensor data and broadcast updates, implement this method to handle the actual data.
Capture Value: Extract the heart rate from event.values[0].
Broadcast Result: Send a local broadcast with the heart rate value so your UI components can update in real-time.
Here is the code:
@Override public void onSensorChanged(SensorEvent event) { if (event.sensor.getType() == Sensor.TYPE_HEART_RATE) { float heartRate = event.values[0]; Log.d(TAG, "_________Heart Rate: " + heartRate); // Broadcast the result to update the UI Intent intent = new Intent(ACTION_HEART_RATE_UPDATE); intent.putExtra(EXTRA_HEART_RATE, heartRate); intent.setPackage(getPackageName()); // Ensure only this app receives the broadcast sendBroadcast(intent); } }
onDestroy() :
In this method, unregister the sensor listener to prevent excessive battery drain after the user is finished.
@Override public void onDestroy() { if (sensorManager != null) { sensorManager.unregisterListener(this); //Stop sensor } Log.d(TAG, "Sensor service destroyed and listener unregistered."); super.onDestroy(); } Step 6: Download the Sample Application
You may download the final projects here:
SensorReadConExample (556.0 KB) 04/23/2026 Step 7: Run the Sample Application on Galaxy Watch
To run the sample application on a Galaxy Watch:
Connect Galaxy Watch to Android Studio over Wi-Fi. Run the sample application on your device. Tap START SENSORS and grant the sensor permission when prompted. When you see the second prompt (or toast), go to the System Settings > Apps > Permissions > Sensors and select All the time. Once granted, the data collection continues even if you close the application UI or the watch screen goes dark.
When the screen turns off, heart rate logs continue in Android Studio Logcat. Tap STOP SENSORS when you want to stop data collection. This stops the service.
Figure 2: Sample application output on a real device
Figure 3: Data collection output in Logcat
In Logcat, filter by the SensorService tag to see the collected heart rate readings. New readings arrive even while the watch screen is off.
NoteYou need to wear the watch to read the heart rate data. Otherwise, it shows 0.0 as the value. Conclusion
Following the steps above, you can build a Galaxy Watch application that collects heart rate data continuously—even when the screen turns off. This same approach applies to other sensors as well, allowing you to read any sensor data continuously in the background.
If you have any questions about or need help with the information in this article, you can reach out to us on the Samsung Developers Forum or contact us through Developer Support.
View the full blog at its source
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By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics today hosted a Visual Display (VD) Deep Dive session at CES 2026. Led by SW Yong, President of VD Business at Samsung Electronics, the session was held at The Wynn Las Vegas and highlighted how Samsung is building on two decades of market leadership to redefine the role of the TV in the connected home. As the global TV market enters a new phase defined by premium demand, larger screens and intelligent experiences, Samsung outlined its strategy for the future of television.
During the session, Samsung emphasized its focus on expanding the TV’s capabilities through next-generation AI while delivering exceptional picture quality. 2026 will be a pivotal year for the VD business, with Micro RGB and OLED leading the premium TV segment, mini LED increasing accessibility to premium TV technology and ultra-large displays further enhancing the immersive entertainment experience at home and beyond. As a result, the full lineup will bring Samsung’s state-of-the-art screen experience to a wider range of consumers, while reinforcing the company’s leadership in performance and innovation.
“We are currently experiencing a transformation in the way viewers enjoy the television experience, shifting from one centered on viewing to one based on direct interaction with users,” said President Yong. “As television evolves, Samsung is continuing to earn its leadership role year after year by building on its legacy of hardware excellence.”
Elevating the TV Experience With Vision AI
At the heart of Samsung’s 2026 strategy is Vision AI Companion (VAC), a new intelligent platform designed to make television more intuitive, conversational and personalized. Integrated across nearly Samsung’s entire TV lineup, VAC understands what viewers are watching, anticipates their needs and surfaces helpful, contextual information directly on the screen — transforming the TV from a passive display into an active participant in everyday life.
By embedding AI across its ecosystem, Samsung is expanding the TV’s role beyond entertainment, enabling deeper smart home integration and more meaningful engagement. This approach reflects Samsung’s commitment to building connected experiences that adapt to users, while maintaining the picture quality and reliability consumers continue to prioritize.
Redefining Scale, Design and Lifestyle Innovation
During the session, Hun Lee, Executive Vice President (EVP) of VD Business, provided additional detail surrounding Samsung’s new Micro RGB 130-inch TV, an industry-first technical achievement, as well as the company’s commitment to lifestyle TV innovation.
“As the quality of content improves, it’s natural for users to want a higher degree of immersion,” said EVP Lee. “As we develop our products, Samsung is focusing on the tangible experiences brought by technologies like VAC, rather than just their technical specifications.”
As Samsung celebrates twenty consecutive years as the world’s top TV brand, the VD Deep Dive underscored a clear message: leadership is earned through continuous innovation. By combining hardware excellence with intelligent, connected experiences, Samsung is shaping a future in which TVs deliver not only superior picture quality, but smarter, more personal and more meaningful experiences in homes around the world.
View the full article
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By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics yesterday held “FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV” as part of its Tech Forum panel series at CES 2026. Taking place at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada, the panel brought together leaders from entertainment and media to explore the evolution of streaming and the rapid rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST).
The session highlighted the interconnected relationship between today’s rapidly evolving consumer behaviors and preferences, the transformation of content by technology and monetization models, the expanding role of creators as studios and the ways in which interactive and live experiences are catalyzing a shift from passive viewing into active engagement.
Moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, the panel featured Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh and Bruce Casino, EVP, Sales & Distribution, U.S., NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.
FAST Gains Momentum as Audiences Recalibrate Value
As audiences grapple with subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming landscape, the panel focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television. Samsung TV Plus anchored the conversation as a platform designed to reduce friction, offering hundreds of live and on-demand channels in one free, easily accessible experience across Samsung TVs and devices worldwide.
“The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer,” said SVP Brodsky. “Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again and combine the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless, curated and truly valuable.”
The panelists emphasized that FAST has evolved into a core part of the streaming ecosystem, complementing subscription and traditional models while delivering premium, proven programming at scale. For Samsung TV Plus, that evolution is rooted in shared experiences that elevate viewing and meet users not just where they already are, but where they want to be.
Hybrid Models Redefine the Streaming Ecosystem
Panelists emphasized that the evolution of streaming is less about replacing traditional models and more about expanding how audiences engage with content. FAST, subscription and linear distribution models are increasingly working in tandem, allowing studios to extend the life of proven franchises, reach new viewers and unlock additional value without sacrificing performance elsewhere. By leveraging data, audience behavior and decades of content insight, media companies are deploying FAST to complement existing channels and create a more resilient and diversified ecosystem.
EVP Bruce Casino highlighted how this approach has enabled NBCUniversal to bring both classic and contemporary content to FAST audiences while continuing to see strong performance across platforms. “FAST doesn’t replace traditional distribution, it extends it,” said Casino. “What we’re seeing is that when great content shows up in multiple places, it creates incremental value rather than cannibalization — allowing franchises to thrive across FAST, streaming and linear channels.”
Creators Emerge as the New Studios
The panel also examined how the changing nature of consumer habits and television platforms means content creators do not have to work exclusively with legacy studios to reach a broad audience. As this medium expands from social platforms to the living room, FAST is helping bridge digital culture and traditional TV, while also serving to elevate its production quality.
Samsung TV Plus was highlighted as a platform that helps creators evolve from digital-first brands into full-fledged television studios, helping expand reach, unlock new monetization opportunities and introduce content to broader, global audiences.
One of the clearest examples of a brand that has taken the step from digital-first brand to legitimate TV studio is sketch comedy-improv collective Smosh. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, Smosh has been able to strengthen its connection with its already-dedicated fans while gaining access to a much larger viewer base. Due to this evolution, Smosh has enhanced long-term growth.
“Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand,” said CEO Alessandra Catanese. “It was the right platform to help us reach a broader audience while positioning our content in a premium environment that supports where we’re headed as a company.”
Live and Interactive Experiences Drive Engagement
Looking beyond on-demand viewing, panelists discussed how live programming like concerts and interactivity are reshaping the television experience by creating shared moments that audiences actively participate in.
With features such as synchronized premieres and real-time participation, technology is transforming television from a passive activity into an interactive experience — fostering connection, excitement and a sense of belonging that brings viewers together organically. Together, the panelists agreed that the future of television will be defined by flexibility, cultural connection and experiences that invite participation, not just consumption.
“Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most,” said SVP Brodsky. “That’s why we’re investing in live events, creator programming and interactive formats that remind people why TV has always been the center of the home.”
As streaming continues to evolve, Samsung is focused on helping shape a TV ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunity for creators and scale for advertisers — redefining what television can be in 2026 and beyond.
View the full article
-
By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics yesterday held “FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV” as part of its Tech Forum panel series at CES 2026. Taking place at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada, the panel brought together leaders from entertainment and media to explore the evolution of streaming and the rapid rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST).
The session highlighted the interconnected relationship between today’s rapidly evolving consumer behaviors and preferences, the transformation of content by technology and monetization models, the expanding role of creators as studios and the ways in which interactive and live experiences are catalyzing a shift from passive viewing into active engagement.
Moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, the panel featured Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh and Bruce Casino, EVP, Sales & Distribution, U.S., NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.
FAST Gains Momentum as Audiences Recalibrate Value
As audiences grapple with subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming landscape, the panel focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television. Samsung TV Plus anchored the conversation as a platform designed to reduce friction, offering hundreds of live and on-demand channels in one free, easily accessible experience across Samsung TVs and devices worldwide.
“The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer,” said SVP Brodsky. “Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again and combine the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless, curated and truly valuable.”
The panelists emphasized that FAST has evolved into a core part of the streaming ecosystem, complementing subscription and traditional models while delivering premium, proven programming at scale. For Samsung TV Plus, that evolution is rooted in shared experiences that elevate viewing and meet users not just where they already are, but where they want to be.
Hybrid Models Redefine the Streaming Ecosystem
Panelists emphasized that the evolution of streaming is less about replacing traditional models and more about expanding how audiences engage with content. FAST, subscription and linear distribution models are increasingly working in tandem, allowing studios to extend the life of proven franchises, reach new viewers and unlock additional value without sacrificing performance elsewhere. By leveraging data, audience behavior and decades of content insight, media companies are deploying FAST to complement existing channels and create a more resilient and diversified ecosystem.
EVP Bruce Casino highlighted how this approach has enabled NBCUniversal to bring both classic and contemporary content to FAST audiences while continuing to see strong performance across platforms. “FAST doesn’t replace traditional distribution, it extends it,” said Casino. “What we’re seeing is that when great content shows up in multiple places, it creates incremental value rather than cannibalization — allowing franchises to thrive across FAST, streaming and linear channels.”
Creators Emerge as the New Studios
The panel also examined how the changing nature of consumer habits and television platforms means content creators do not have to work exclusively with legacy studios to reach a broad audience. As this medium expands from social platforms to the living room, FAST is helping bridge digital culture and traditional TV, while also serving to elevate its production quality.
Samsung TV Plus was highlighted as a platform that helps creators evolve from digital-first brands into full-fledged television studios, helping expand reach, unlock new monetization opportunities and introduce content to broader, global audiences.
One of the clearest examples of a brand that has taken the step from digital-first brand to legitimate TV studio is sketch comedy-improv collective Smosh. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, Smosh has been able to strengthen its connection with its already-dedicated fans while gaining access to a much larger viewer base. Due to this evolution, Smosh has enhanced long-term growth.
“Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand,” said CEO Alessandra Catanese. “It was the right platform to help us reach a broader audience while positioning our content in a premium environment that supports where we’re headed as a company.”
Live and Interactive Experiences Drive Engagement
Looking beyond on-demand viewing, panelists discussed how live programming like concerts and interactivity are reshaping the television experience by creating shared moments that audiences actively participate in.
With features such as synchronized premieres and real-time participation, technology is transforming television from a passive activity into an interactive experience — fostering connection, excitement and a sense of belonging that brings viewers together organically. Together, the panelists agreed that the future of television will be defined by flexibility, cultural connection and experiences that invite participation, not just consumption.
“Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most,” said SVP Brodsky. “That’s why we’re investing in live events, creator programming and interactive formats that remind people why TV has always been the center of the home.”
As streaming continues to evolve, Samsung is focused on helping shape a TV ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunity for creators and scale for advertisers — redefining what television can be in 2026 and beyond.
View the full article
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By Samsung Newsroom
“One of the reasons Samsung focused on quantum dots is their exceptionally narrow peaks of the emission spectrum.”
— Sanghyun Sohn, Samsung Electronics
In 2023, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots. The Nobel Committee recognized the groundbreaking achievements of scientists in the field — noting that quantum dots have already made significant contributions to the display and medical industries, with broader applications expected in electronics, quantum communications and solar cells.
Quantum dots — ultra-fine semiconductor particles — emit different colors of light depending on their size, producing exceptionally pure and vivid hues. Samsung Electronics, the world’s leading TV manufacturer, has embraced this cutting-edge material to enhance display performance.
Samsung Newsroom sat down with Taeghwan Hyeon, a distinguished professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Seoul National University (SNU); Doh Chang Lee, a professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST); and Sanghyun Sohn, Head of Advanced Display Lab, Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics, to explore how quantum dots are ushering in a new era of display technology.
Understanding the Band Gap Quantum Dots – The Smaller the Particle, the Larger the Band Gap Engineering Behind Quantum Dot Films Real QLED TVs Use Quantum Dots To Create Color
Understanding the Band Gap
“To understand quantum dots, one must first grasp the concept of the band gap.”
— Taeghwan Hyeon, Seoul National University
The movement of electrons causes electricity. Typically, the outermost electrons — known as valence electrons — are involved in this movement. The energy range where these electrons exist is called the valence band, while a higher, unoccupied energy range that can accept electrons is called the conduction band.
An electron can absorb energy to jump from the valence band to the conduction band. When the excited electron releases that energy, it falls back into the valence band. The energy difference between these two bands — the amount of energy an electron must gain or lose to move between them — is known as the band gap.
▲ A comparison of energy band structures in insulators, semiconductors and conductors
Insulators like rubber and glass have large band gaps, preventing electrons from moving freely between bands. In contrast, conductors like copper and silver have overlapping valence and conduction bands — allowing electrons to move freely for high electrical conductivity.
Semiconductors have a band gap that falls between those of insulators and conductors — limiting conductivity under normal conditions but allowing electrical conduction or light emission when electrons are stimulated by heat, light or electricity.
“To understand quantum dots, one must first grasp the concept of the band gap,” said Hyeon, emphasizing that a material’s energy band structure is crucial in determining its electrical properties.
Quantum Dots – The Smaller the Particle, the Larger the Band Gap
“As quantum dot particles become smaller, the wavelength of emitted light shifts from red to blue.”
— Doh Chang Lee, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
Quantum dots are nanoscale semiconductor crystals with unique electrical and optical properties. Measured in nanometers (nm) — or one-billionth of a meter — these particles are just a few thousandths the thickness of a human hair. When a semiconductor is reduced to the nanometer scale, its properties change significantly compared to its bulk state.
In bulk states, particles are sufficiently large so the electrons in the semiconductor material can move freely without being constrained by their own wavelength. This allows energy levels — the states that particles occupy when absorbing or releasing energy — to form a continuous spectrum, like a long slide with a gentle slope. In quantum dots, electron movement is restricted because the particle size is smaller than the electron’s wavelength.
▲ Size determines the band gap in quantum dots
Imagine scooping water (energy) from a large pot (bulk state) with a ladle (bandwidth corresponding to an electron’s wavelength). Using the ladle, one can adjust the amount of water in the pot freely from full to empty — this is the equivalent of continuous energy levels. However, when the pot shrinks to the size of a teacup — like a quantum dot — the ladle no longer fits. At that point, the cup can only be either full or empty. This illustrates the concept of quantized energy levels.
“When semiconductor particles are reduced to the nanometer scale, their energy levels become quantized — they can only exist in discontinuous steps,” said Hyeon. “This effect is called ‘quantum confinement.’ And at this scale, the band gap can be controlled by adjusting particle size.”
The number of molecules within the particle decreases as the size of the quantum dot decreases, resulting in weaker interactions of molecular orbitals. This strengthens the quantum confinement effect and increases the band gap.1 Because the band gap corresponds to the energy released through relaxation of an electron from the conduction band to the valence band, the color of the emitted light changes accordingly.
“As particles become smaller, the wavelength of emitted light shifts from red to blue,” said Lee. “In other words, the size of the quantum dot nanocrystal determines its color.”
Engineering Behind Quantum Dot Films
“Quantum dot film is at the core of QLED TVs — a testament to Samsung’s deep technical expertise.”
— Doh Chang Lee, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
Quantum dots have attracted attention across a variety of fields, including solar cells, photocatalysis, medicine and quantum computing. However, the display industry was the first to successfully commercialize the technology.
“One of the reasons Samsung focused on quantum dots is the exceptionally narrow peaks of their emission spectrum,” said Sohn. “Their narrow bandwidth and strong fluorescence make them ideal for accurately reproducing a wide spectrum of colors.”
▲ Quantum dots create ultra-pure red, green and blue (RGB) colors by controlling light at the nanoscale, producing narrow bandwidth and strong fluorescence.
To leverage quantum dots effectively in display technology, materials and structures must maintain high performance over time, under harsh conditions. Samsung QLED achieves this through the use of a quantum dot film.
“Accurate color reproduction in a display depends on how well the film utilizes the optical properties of quantum dots,” said Lee. “A quantum dot film must meet several key requirements for commercial use, such as efficient light conversion and translucence.”
▲ Sanghyun Sohn
The quantum dot film used in Samsung QLED displays is produced by adding a quantum dot solution to a polymer base heated to a very high-temperature, spreading it into a thin layer and then curing it. While this may sound simple, the actual manufacturing process is highly complex.
“It’s like trying to evenly mix cinnamon powder into sticky honey without making lumps — not an easy task,” said Sohn. “To evenly disperse quantum dots throughout the film, several factors such as materials, design and processing conditions must be carefully considered.”
Despite these challenges, Samsung pushed the boundaries of the technology. To ensure long-term durability in its displays, the company developed proprietary polymer materials specifically optimized for quantum dots.
“We’ve built extensive expertise in quantum dot technology by developing barrier films that block moisture and polymer materials capable of evenly dispersing quantum dots,” he added. “Through this, we not only achieved mass production but also reduced costs.”
Thanks to this advanced process, Samsung’s quantum dot film delivers precise color expression and outstanding luminous efficiency — all backed by industry-leading durability.
“Brightness is typically measured in nits, with one nit equivalent to the brightness of a single candle,” explained Sohn. “While conventional LEDs offer around 500 nits, our quantum dot displays can reach 2,000 nits or more — the equivalent of 2,000 candles — achieving a new level of image quality.”
▲ RGB gamut comparisons between visible light spectrum, sRGB and DCI-P3 in a CIE 1931 color space
* CIE 1930: A widely used color system announced in 1931 by the Commission internationale de l’éclairage
* sRGB (standard RGB): A color space created cooperatively by Microsoft and HP in 1996 for monitors and printers
* DCI-P3 (Digital Cinema Initiatives – Protocol 3): A color space widely used for digital HDR content, defined by Digital Cinema Initiatives for digital projectors
By leveraging quantum dots, Samsung has significantly enhanced both brightness and color expression — delivering a visual experience unlike anything seen before. In fact, Samsung QLED TVs achieve a color reproduction rate exceeding 90% of the DCI-P3 (Digital Cinema Initiatives – Protocol 3) color space, the benchmark for color accuracy in digital cinema.
“Even if you have made quantum dots, you need to ensure long-term stability for them to be useful,” said Lee. “Samsung’s industry-leading indium phosphide (InP)-based quantum dot synthesis and film production technologies are testament to Samsung’s deep technical expertise.”
Real QLED TVs Use Quantum Dots To Create Color
“The legitimacy of a quantum dot TV lies in whether or not it leverages the quantum confinement effect.”
— Taeghwan Hyeon, Seoul National University
As interest in quantum dots grows across the industry, a variety of products have entered the market. Nonetheless, not all quantum dot-labeled TVs are equal — quantum dots must sufficiently contribute to actual image quality.
▲ Taeghwan Hyeon
“The legitimacy of a quantum dot TV lies in whether or not it leverages the quantum confinement effect,” said Hyeon. “The first, fundamental requirement is to use quantum dots to create color.”
“To be considered a true quantum dot TV, quantum dots must serve as either the core light-converting or primary light-emitting material,” said Lee. “For light-converting quantum dots, the display must contain an adequate amount of quantum dots to absorb and convert blue light emitted by the backlight unit.”
▲ Doh Chang Lee
“Quantum dot film must contain a sufficient amount of quantum dots to perform effectively,” repeated Sohn, emphasizing the importance of quantum dot content. “Samsung QLED uses more than 3,000 parts per million (ppm) of quantum dot materials. 100% of the red and green colors are made through quantum dots.”
Samsung began developing quantum dot technology in 2001 and, in 2015, introduced the world’s first no-cadmium quantum dot TV — the SUHD TV. In 2017, the company launched its premium QLED lineup, further solidifying its leadership in the quantum dot display industry.
In the second part of this interview series, Samsung Newsroom takes a closer look at how Samsung not only commercialized quantum dot display technology but also developed a cadmium-free quantum dot material — an innovation recognized by Nobel Prize-winning researchers in chemistry.
1 When a semiconductor material is in its bulk state, the band gap remains fixed at a value characteristic of the material and does not depend on particle size.
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