Samsung to introduce subscription fee for SmartThings API access

Samsung has announced that it will begin charging some users for access to its SmartThings application programming interface (API), introducing a new subscription model that mainly affects developers and advanced smart home users.

The change is aimed primarily at software developers and commercial partners that build services using the SmartThings platform. While everyday users of the SmartThings mobile app will continue to use the service as normal, those who rely on third-party software or custom automation tools may soon face an additional monthly cost.

New subscription targets developers and advanced users

Beginning in October, Samsung will introduce a new US$5 monthly subscription for non-commercial individual developers who access the SmartThings API. The company confirmed that this change will not affect users who operate compatible smart home devices through the standard SmartThings application.

However, the new fee will apply to individuals who connect Samsung devices through third-party platforms, including Home Assistant and other custom home automation systems. These users often rely on the API to create more advanced routines and personalised smart home experiences beyond what the official app offers.

For many enthusiasts, the announcement represents another subscription expense within the growing connected home market. Those who have invested time building custom automations or integrating multiple smart home ecosystems could now need to budget for continued API access once the new pricing takes effect.

The move is also expected to affect members of the open-source smart home community, many of whom use the SmartThings API to link Samsung products with independent software projects. While the monthly fee is relatively small, it creates a paid barrier to services that were previously available at no cost.

Open-source community expresses disappointment

The announcement has drawn criticism from parts of the smart home community, particularly among developers who support open-source home automation platforms.

Paulus Schoutsen, founder of Home Assistant, expressed concern over Samsung’s decision, suggesting that the change limits user choice by placing another cloud-based service behind a subscription.

“We’re all for choice, but feel very disappointed that users will have to decide whether to shell out for access in the shadow of yet another cloud paywall,” Schoutsen wrote in a blog post.

Home Assistant has become one of the most widely used platforms for users seeking greater control over connected devices from different manufacturers. The software allows smart home owners to manage lighting, security systems, appliances and other devices locally while reducing dependence on proprietary cloud services.

For users who depend on this type of integration, Samsung’s new pricing model could influence future decisions about which smart home products and ecosystems they choose to adopt. Developers may also need to assess whether the additional cost remains worthwhile for hobby projects and personal automation systems.

Samsung promises new features and improved developer tools

Samsung has said the new subscription model will help fund future improvements to the SmartThings platform, although the company has not yet provided detailed information about what subscribers can expect.

According to Samsung, the additional revenue will allow it to “invest heavily in the enterprise-grade features our partners and users have been asking for.” The company has not outlined a specific roadmap but indicated that it is working on new integrations and expanded platform capabilities.

Among the planned additions is a new Developer Centre, designed to provide developers with usage and performance data to help optimise their applications and services. Samsung believes these tools will improve the development experience while supporting future growth across the SmartThings ecosystem.

For now, SmartThings API access remains free, giving developers and advanced users several months before the subscription comes into effect. The new pricing is scheduled to begin in October; after that, eligible users will need to subscribe to continue accessing the API under the new policy.