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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.
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By Samsung Newsroom
▲ RM reflects on how art is transforming his life at “Talk With RM” during Art Basel in Basel 2025.
As the art world converges at Art Basel in Basel 2025, Samsung Electronics hosted a special two-part media session spotlighting the evolving role of art in daily life. Titled “Living With Art,” the event brought together Samsung Art TV global ambassador RM of 21st century pop icons BTS, Clément Delépine, Director of Art Basel Paris and featured artist Basim Magdy to explore how technology is transforming how people experience, collect and live with art.
Together with Sofia Monteiro, Curator at Samsung Art Store Europe, the speakers shared how digital platforms like Samsung Art TV are helping to make art more accessible, more personal and more emotionally resonant in people’s everyday lives.
Part 1: RM on Finding Peace, Presence and Personal Taste Through Art
RM spoke candidly about how art has become a profound source of comfort, curiosity and connection in his life. Seated with Monteiro in a relaxed lounge space, he reflected on his early love of literature, his discovery of visual art and how innovative digital platforms like Samsung Art Store are modernizing access to art, particularly for those unsure where to begin.
“Art is already deeply embedded in our lives — in literature, architecture, film and, of course, music,” he shared. “But a lot of people still find art hard to understand. I think it’s already inside of us.”
That sense of instinctual connection came into focus during a tour stop in Chicago. With time to spare, RM visited the Art Institute of Chicago, and something shifted. “I wanted to see Monet and other artists I had only read about,” RM recalled. “When I saw those works up close, the details, the textures — I was really impressed.”
RM noted that the idea of art grounding people in beauty, even in quiet or overlooked moments, is what makes living with art so meaningful. It’s also what drew him to The Frame. “Friends come over and think it’s a new media art, not a TV.”
He emphasized that digital tools can make discovery more intuitive, even playful. “Art Store Streams on Samsung Art Store break down barriers and introduce me to artists I might never encounter otherwise.”
▲ (From left) Daniel Fanslau, RM and Sofia Monteiro
RM’s participation at Art Basel in Basel 2025 also marked the launch of his curated collection on Samsung Art Store, offering users a glimpse into his artistic sensibilities with selected works that span emerging global voices to timeless modernists.
He said that he asks simple questions — such as “Who made this? And why did they make it?” — that allow him to dive deeper into the artwork.
Part 2: Reimagining the Art Experience With Technology
▲ (From left) Clément Delépine, Basim Magdy and Sofia Monteiro
The second session shifted from personal reflection to industry insight, featuring a panel moderated by Sofia Monteiro with Basim Magdy, a multi-disciplinary artist, and Clément Delépine, Director of Art Basel Paris. Together, they unpacked how digital tools are reshaping the way in which people discover, engage with and collect art.
Delépine reflected on a cultural shift — noting that while physical artwork still holds tremendous value, there has been a transformational shift in how people experience them. “People may still aspire to see or own a piece of art, but their discovery now incorporates new avenues — digital galleries, curated feeds and even algorithmic discovery,” he said. “It’s no longer just about owning an object — it’s about the experience that leads you there.”
This shift from ownership to experience is especially meaningful during a time when access to physical galleries remains limited for many. Magdy emphasized the power of being able to share art with audiences around the world. “You’re connecting with people you may never meet, and that’s both beautiful and a little surreal,” he said. “It’s not a replacement for seeing art in person, but it invites emotional connection in a new way.”
The panelists also agreed that platforms like Samsung Art Store can help people discover their artistic preferences through visual immersion. “The Frame reminds me of how we used to collect and curate images online,” Delépine shared. “You’d collect images, and over time, patterns would emerge. That process helped shape your taste, and The Frame enables something similar but in your own space.”
The conversation also acknowledged the importance of preserving the emotional depth of art, even as it becomes more digitized. “It’s like listening to your favorite band at home versus being at the concert,” said Magdy. “Digital can’t replicate everything, but it can open the door. And that matters.”
Looking ahead, Delépine pointed to AI as a tool that will likely shape the future of art, but one that shouldn’t overshadow human touch. “Using AI won’t make you an artist, just how editing tools don’t make you a director,” he said. “Vision still matters more than the tools.”
The panelists reinforced a shared vision — that technology expands, rather than diminishes, the power of art. By making it easier to access, explore and connect with, platforms like Samsung Art Store are helping to democratize creativity for a new generation of collectors and viewers alike.
A Seamless Union: Art, Technology and Accessibility
The event coincided with the launch of the Art Basel in Basel (ABB) Collection, the largest Art Basel curation yet on Samsung Art Store — featuring 38 curated works that span continents, mediums and generations. For the first time, the collection includes contributions from an Africa-based gallery and a broader variety of emerging voices.
At Samsung ArtCube, visitors were invited to explore these works up close through Samsung Art TVs including The Frame, The Frame Pro, Neo QLED 8K and MICRO LED — demonstrating how display innovation can enhance the emotional impact of fine art in the home.
“At Samsung, we see technology as a bridge, not a barrier, to emotional and cultural connection,” said Amelia-Eve Warden, Senior Communications Manager at Samsung Europe. “Whether it’s discovering a new artist or reinterpreting a classic, we’re proud to help more people make art part of their everyday rhythm.”
Living With Art On Your Terms
▲ RM poses for a photo at the “Talk With RM” session.
From RM’s candid reflections to the expert insights of art world leaders, the “Living With Art” sessions reinforced a shared belief — that art is no longer something to visit, but something to live with. Whether through a museum visit, a personal collection or a digital frame in the living room, art today is closer, more personal and more resonant than ever before.
As Samsung continues its partnership with Art Basel across all four global editions, the message is clear. Art doesn’t need to live on a pedestal. It can live with the viewer.
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By Samsung Newsroom
From June 19 to 22, 2025, Samsung Electronics will collaborate with globally renowned artists to celebrate global diversity, artistic innovation and the power of display technology at Art Basel in Basel 2025, the world’s largest art fair held in Basel, Switzerland.
▲ As Art Basel’s official display partner, Samsung Electronics offers exclusive access to curated exhibition artworks via the Samsung Art Store, also on display onsite at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
With participation from approximately 280 galleries across 42 countries, Art Basel in Basel 2025 offers a comprehensive view of the latest ideas shaping contemporary art today. As the official display partner, Samsung Electronics presents a new digital art experience that brings together art and technology through its premium screens including The Frame, Micro LED and Neo QLED 8K.
Immersive Digital Art Experience: ‘ArtCube’ Draws Visitors Into the World of Art
At Art Basel in Basel 2025, Samsung Electronics unveiled ‘ArtCube,’ a lounge dedicated to digital art experiences on Samsung devices. Created under the theme “Borderless, Dive Into the Art,” ArtCube offers a progressively immersive journey as visitors navigate the space.
▲ Located in Hall 1.0 of Messe Basel, ArtCube immersed visitors in digital artworks by artists featured in the Samsung Art Store collection. Digital works created by Saya Woolf shown on the LED façade at Samsung ArtCube.
Passing through a large LED entrance where the Art Basel in Basel Collection from Samsung Art Store is reinterpreted as digital artworks, visitors discover a space showcasing the full lineup of Samsung Art TVs in the ArtCube. Artworks from the Samsung Art Store, displayed across ‘The Frame,’ ‘Micro LED’ and ‘Neo QLED 8K’ screens, envelope the front and side walls to create a deeply immersive experience — one that makes visitors feel as though they have stepped directly into the art itself.
▲ Samsung Art TVs — including The Frame Pro, MICRO LED and Neo QLED 8K — line the interior walls of ArtCube.
▲ A visitor views Basim Magdy’s artwork on display at ArtCube, part of the Samsung Art Store collection at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
An interactive experience zone, powered by Samsung Art Store, is also featured. Visitors can select an artist showcased in the exhibition, take a photo and generate a personalized selfie in the chosen artist’s style, using generative AI — offering a distinctive and engaging experience.
▲ A visitor captures a selfie to generate a dynamic artwork styled after their favorite artist at Samsung ArtCube.
▲Visitors enjoy their selfies reimagined in their favorite artist’s style as dynamic artwork at Samsung ArtCube.
Bringing Art Into Everyday Life Through the Samsung Art Store
Earlier this week, Samsung Electronics has unveiled a new collection featuring 38 highlighted pieces from Art Basel in Basel 2025, now available on the Samsung Art Store. With this launch, Samsung Art Store subscribers around the world can enjoy a diverse selection of Art Basel artworks from the comfort of their homes — without needing to travel to Basel, Switzerland.
As the official display partner of Art Basel for 2025, Samsung Electronics will continue its participation in the annual exhibitions held in Basel, Hong Kong, Paris and Miami. Through Samsung Art Store, the company aims to make art more accessible and seamlessly integrated into everyday life.
The Samsung Art Store* is a subscription-based art service available on Samsung’s The Frame and QLED TVs. Now accessible in 117 countries, the Samsung Art Store offers more than 3,500 artworks in stunning 4K resolution through collaboration with over 70 leading partners.
▲ Basim Magdy, featured in the Samsung Art Store collection at Art Basel in Basel 2025, views his own work on display at ArtCube.
▲ Visitors take in the vibrant, dreamlike works of Basim Magdy on display at ArtCube, part of Samsung’s digital art showcase at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
▲ A visitor captures Lee Kun-yong’s artwork on display at Samsung ArtCube.
▲ A visitor views Marc Dennis’ artwork on display at Samsung ArtCube.
▲ A vivid portrait in the style of Marc Dennis captures visitors’ attention at ArtCube, part of Samsung’s digital art showcase at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
▲ A vivid portrait in the style of Saya Woolfalk captures visitors’ attention at ArtCube, part of Samsung’s digital art showcase at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
▲ The experience zone highlights the Samsung Art Store and lets visitors create immersive, AI-powered photos with animated elements from featured artworks.
▲ ArtCube features a curated selection of Art Basel in Basel 2025 artworks from the Samsung Art Store. Visitors watch the briefing video introducing the collection.
▲ Visitors take in the vibrant, dreamlike works of Basim Magdy on display at ArtCube, part of Samsung’s digital art showcase at Art Basel in Basel 2025.
▲ One of the most striking pieces at ArtCube, Basim Magdy’s “The Dictator and His Cockroach Count Their Blessings” merges satire and dreamlike visuals in Samsung’s digital art showcase.
▲ Visitors explore the immersive artworks by Marc Dennis at ArtCube, where his vivid, hyperreal art pieces are brought to life with digital projections.
* All artworks in Samsung Art Store are available with a membership subscription. Artwork availability is subject to change without prior notice and may vary by region.
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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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By Samsung Newsroom
“Technology has transformed the way people engage with art, making it more accessible through platforms like Samsung Art Store.”
Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong, is a seasoned art professional with a deep understanding of the Asian and global art markets. For over a decade, she has been instrumental in shaping and defining the fair’s vision by fostering connections with galleries, collectors, institutions and the broader arts ecosystem.
Since her appointment as director in 2022, Art Basel Hong Kong has continued to evolve and grow — reflecting the vibrant art scene in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region at large. Her passion for building community has been a driving force throughout her career in the arts, aligning perfectly with Art Basel’s mission to bring people together through meaningful and inspiring art experiences.
Samsung Newsroom sat down with Siyang-Le to explore how Art Basel Hong Kong fosters creativity and collaboration through technology.
▲ Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong (Image courtesy of Art Basel)
Vision and Future of Art Basel Hong Kong
Q: What is the vision behind Art Basel Hong Kong?
Art Basel is dedicated to connecting and nurturing the global art ecosystem. Art Basel Hong Kong places a strong emphasis on the Asia-Pacific region, with over 50% of participating galleries coming from this area. We actively support the local art scene through collaborations with various institutions and cultural organizations.
Each of our shows — in Hong Kong, Basel, Paris and Miami Beach — is uniquely shaped by its host city, an influence reflected in the gallery lineup, artwork and parallel programming developed in collaboration with local institutions.
Q: What role does Hong Kong play in the Asian art market?
Hong Kong serves as a pivotal gateway to the broader Asian art market. With its established auction houses, vibrant gallery scene and international collector base, the city remains a key hub for both Western and Asian art. As Asia’s leading art hub, Hong Kong continues to bridge art communities across the region and beyond.
Q: How has Art Basel Hong Kong evolved over the years?
Our fair has evolved alongside Hong Kong’s vibrant art scene, with both continuously inspiring and impacting each other. The city’s cultural landscape has expanded significantly during my time here — invigorated by a new generation of collectors, the opening of world-class institutions like M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum and a dynamic surge of commercial, non-profit and artist-run spaces. Internally, we have introduced numerous initiatives and programs as well. I am proud that Art Basel Hong Kong has become a cornerstone of the city’s arts community, with widespread recognition of the fair’s presence this month.
▲ Art Basel Hong Kong 2024 (Image courtesy of Art Basel)
Samsung x Art Basel: Redefining Art Appreciation
Q: As the official visual display partner for Art Basel, how is Samsung Electronics driving the integration of art into everyday life through Samsung Art Store?
The global collaboration between Art Basel and Samsung presents an exciting opportunity to merge world-class art exhibitions with cutting-edge innovations. Technology has transformed the way people engage with art, making it more accessible through platforms like Samsung Art Store. Advancements in display technology enable viewers to experience art in new and immersive ways — bringing it into their daily lives and fostering deeper connections.
▲ The Samsung Art Store is home to 3,000+ works from world-renowned museums, galleries and artists. Subscribers can explore expertly curated masterpieces in stunning 4K resolution. While previously exclusive to The Frame and MICRO LED, the Samsung Art Store will soon be available on 2025 Samsung AI-powered Neo QLED and QLED TVs.
Q: How do you see this partnership impacting the way people perceive and appreciate art?
Technology-driven initiatives have the power to expand cultural exchange and inspire audiences worldwide. With The Frame, Samsung has already built strong partnerships with leading museums, institutions and artists — bridging diverse artistic practices and mediums. I believe that growing these collaborations will be crucial to further integrating technology into the art world and redefining how people experience and appreciate art in their homes.
Q: What has your experience been like using The Frame in Art Mode?
I had the opportunity to explore The Frame during Samsung’s activation at our Basel and Miami Beach shows last year, and I was truly impressed by how artwork is presented on the screen. I encourage visitors to experience The Frame in Art Mode and observe how various artistic techniques and textures are rendered digitally. While The Frame offers a stunning way to enjoy classic masterpieces, what excites me most is how Samsung Art Store enhances the experience by showcasing emerging artists and fresh artistic perspectives.
▲ A comparison of The Frame Pro’s TV Mode and Art Mode
The Role of Technology in the Evolving Art World
Q: How is technology influencing the presentation and consumption of contemporary art?
Technology plays a crucial role in expanding the global reach of contemporary art and transforming how we experience and connect with it. Digital platforms have redefined accessibility, while AI and blockchain are revolutionizing how art is created, traded and authenticated. Last year at Art Basel Miami Beach, we introduced an AI-powered mobile app to make exploring the fair more intuitive and engaging. Our use of technology is all about enhancing the visitor experience — offering audiences fresh, innovative ways to discover new artwork, navigate the fair seamlessly and connect with galleries.
Q: What changes have you noticed in the art world?
Collector interests are shifting. There is a growing demand for emerging artists and increased recognition of local artists, whose presence in private collections is rising. Additionally, a generational shift is underway as younger collectors take on a more active role in shaping the market.
▲ “Enduring as the universe (天長地久, 2024)” by Ticko Liu displayed on The Frame Pro
Q: What opportunities excite you most about Art Basel Hong Kong’s future?
I’m excited to continue deepening collaborations within Hong Kong’s dynamic arts community and contributing to Asia’s art ecosystem. Strengthening regional and global connections not only enriches the fair but also fosters a broader dialogue around contemporary art. Through meaningful partnerships such as Art Basel’s collaboration with Samsung, we can continue to progress while staying true to our core mission — delivering world-class art fairs for our global community of galleries, artists, partners and collectors.
This year, Art Basel Hong Kong will take place from March 28 to 30 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Visitors are invited to explore premier galleries from around the world and discover diverse artistic perspectives through modern and contemporary artwork.
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