Samsung, CommScope Partner to Bring Networking to Property Developers

As alarm systems, thermostats, air conditioners and other home devices become increasingly connected, the next generation of residents are seeking to drive value and convenience by creating a tailored, technology-enabled environmental experience in their homes. To address the demand for such an ecosystem, Samsung SmartThings and CommScope RUCKUS have announced a collaboration that enables landlords and building owners to offer enhanced experiences to tenants and residents.

Through this alliance, the RUCKUS portfolio of converged Wi-Fi 6 and IoT access points will gain Works as a SmartThings Hub (WASH) functionality, enabling property owners to turn their apartment buildings into smart homes, and residents to connect to thousands of devices across hundreds of brands. The integration will offer future compatibility with the Matter protocol, creating true interoperability by allowing consumers’ smart home devices to work reliably together. The SmartThings app will also be available within the RUCKUS IoT suite, offering builders and property managers one future-proof solution under a single ecosystem.

“In recent years, there has been a shift in how and where people are living. Residents are increasingly looking for buildings that are equipped with connected technology for easier and more enjoyable living,” said Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President and Head of IoT Business group at Samsung Electronics. “This partnership allows us to give residents the peace of mind and convenience they are looking for, while helping builders and property managers eliminate high costs and compete in today’s real estate market.”

Almost 75 percent of people recently surveyed by SmartThings reported that smart home capabilities are an important feature when looking for a place to live. As a result, developers and property managers are investing in the value of creating connected living experiences. CommScope’s RUCKUS portfolio of converged Wi-Fi 6 and IoT solutions allow residents to receive the connected living experience they have incorporated into their lives.

“In 2022, we expect to see tenants making lifestyle choices that give them more freedom and flexibility. Property developers are responding by deploying technology that provides convenience and value,” said Bart Giordano, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RUCKUS, CommScope. “By connecting home devices onto one network, real estate developers are tapping into IoT technology that optimizes maintenance, energy efficiency and an enhanced home experience. The Samsung SmartThings and CommScope RUCKUS collaboration marks a new milestone in propelling the real estate market into the future.”

Creating Connected Living and Working Experiences

SmartThings and CommScope RUCKUS worked with Picerne Real Estate Group, a construction and development firm, to create connected experiences by incorporating integrated technology directly into one of their new apartment developments. The apartments in this development provide a truly connected experience for residents, allowing them to control their Samsung smart appliances, adjust their heating and air conditioning, and turn on their smart lights all from the SmartThings app.

In addition to residents, property managers and maintenance staff have also benefited from the technology. According to Picerne Real Estate Group, property managers are able to save as much as 20% on their electrical turnover by centrally controlling thermostats on vacant apartments through the SmartThings app. They can also automate routine tasks. For example, each apartment is equipped with a smart lock, which the property manager can control through the SmartThings app, enabling maintenance staff to quickly and efficiently complete maintenance tickets. The result is increased efficiency and higher resident satisfaction.

“Since 1925, we have been at the forefront of building development and management. We have committed to maintaining properties, raising occupancies, lowering costs, and boosting bottom-line cash flow,” said Frank LoTurco, VP of Property Management at Picerne Real Estate Group. “We’re pleased to unveil this apartment building of the future with SmartThings and CommScope RUCKUS.”

Today, millions of customers globally already trust Samsung with innovative appliances, TVs, and more in their homes. With a broad ecosystem of compatible IoT devices, SmartThings is continuing to create a world of limitless possibilities.