Samsung Electronics announced that it had added an extension to the Galaxy Upcycling program with the Galaxy Upcycling at Home. Previously, Samsung launched the Galaxy Upcycling, an initiative that repurposes old flagship devices, incorporating them into everyday tools for efficiency. Following this initiative’s establishment, Samsung introduced the new Galaxy Upcycling at Home, a program for revitalizing old Galaxy smartphones.
Innovating Smart Home Devices
The program converts the old gadgets into various IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets through a software update. In particular, the Galaxy Upcycling at Home enables users to transform Galaxy products into smart home devices. Some of the tools the repurposed Galaxy devices could make include child monitors, pet care solutions, and more.
Moreover, the Galaxy Upcycling at Home recycles gadgets’ built-in sensors to improve light and sound-control functions. Users could reuse Galaxy products using SmartThings, an easy-to-use app that manages compatible Samsung products, and its SmartThings Lab feature. Accordingly, the repurposed flagship devices use AI to detect everyday background sounds and allow users to keep chosen sound recordings. For instance, if the tool records a baby’s cry, knocks, or pet sounds, it would promptly send alerts to users.
Users could also upcycle gadgets into light sensors that measure a room’s brightness level. With SmartThings Lab, users could program the device to turn on lights or activate TVs automatically, depending on preset standards. Samsung also optimized the program to reduce battery usage, giving the repurposed products better and longer operation periods. Additionally, Samsung provided the gadgets with SmartThings connectivity, supporting interaction with other IoT devices linked to the SmartThings ecosystem.
Repurposing Old Technologies for Sustainability
“We created Galaxy Upcycling at Home to enable more people to repurpose their old devices into useful tools, allowing both Samsung and our users to be mindful of the impact we have on the environment,” said Kim Sung-Koo, VP of Samsung Electronics’ Sustainability Management Office.
In addition to creating innovative ways to recycle devices, the Galaxy Upcycling program guides users toward a more sustainable future. According to Kim, the program exhibits the IoT platform’s innovation and broadens the uses of smartphones currently not in use. Besides addressing home device trends, the newly developed extension also supports the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Specifically, the Galaxy Upcycling at Home tackles Goal 12, an initiative promoting sustainable production and consumption.
Kim also said that the upcycling program’s primary goal is to create new solutions by reshaping and adding value to old technologies. For this goal, Samsung would actively reevaluate its handling of existing resources and incorporate sustainable practices into its business operations. Recently, Samsung developed the EYELIKE fundus camera, an ophthalmic medical tool that detects eye diseases, by upcycling old Galaxy cameras.
