Samsung's SmartThings platform has received a significant update designed to aid long-distance caregivers, particularly for ageing parents. The update enhances its Family Care service, integrating new features for monitoring and communication.

• New features include Care on Call, which provides real-time activity insights before a call connects, and Safety Patrol, allowing remote monitoring via a robot vacuum.
• The update also extends the Now Brief daily briefing feature beyond Galaxy phones to Samsung televisions and refrigerators.
• While the features offer potential benefits for families in places like Kenya, the article notes that full functionality requires owning a range of premium Samsung devices, posing a practical and financial challenge.