Samsung makes ads on smart fridges official with upcoming software update

Samsung officially confirmed that its 2024 Family Hub smart fridges will display ads through a software update starting this month. Priced between $1,899 and $3,499, the fridges will show ads on their 21.5- or 32-inch screens when idle, alongside information like news and weather.

Samsung promises that ads will be contextual rather than personalized. The new features include a "Daily Board" theme that will also include ads. Users can opt out of seeing ads by adjusting settings or avoiding the update, but they would miss other enhancements.

This move reflects a trend of smart home devices changing user experiences post-purchase, as companies seek new revenue streams through advertising.