Samsung will soon start charging to access its smart home API

Samsung will begin charging for access to its SmartThings API starting in October 2026, introducing a $4.99 monthly plan for individual developers. This change aims to generate revenue and fund new features, but it may impact some smart home users and third-party integrations.

Samsung announced that from October 2026, it will introduce paid tiers for its SmartThings API, including a $4.99 monthly plan specifically for non-commercial, individual developers. The company stated that this move will help it invest more heavily in enterprise-grade features, improve stability, and expand its developer resources. The new pricing structure will also affect some existing smart home users who access the API directly or via third-party platforms like Home Assistant, which will fall under their new ‘personal plans.’

According to the company, the goal is to support ongoing development and innovation within the SmartThings ecosystem. However, the change has raised concerns among hobbyist and advanced smart home users, who rely on the API for custom integrations and automation. The specific impact on current users and third-party platforms remains to be fully clarified as the rollout approaches.

Implications for Smart Home Users and Developers

This move by Samsung marks a significant shift in its open API policy, potentially setting a precedent for other smart home platforms. Hobbyists, independent developers, and advanced users who previously accessed the SmartThings API for free may now face additional costs or restrictions, which could slow innovation and limit customization options. The change also signals Samsung’s focus on monetizing its ecosystem and prioritizing enterprise features, which could influence the broader smart home industry.

Background of Samsung’s SmartThings API and Pricing Changes

Samsung’s SmartThings platform has been a popular choice for smart home automation, offering both consumer and developer access to device controls and integrations. Historically, the API was available for free, allowing independent developers and hobbyists to build custom solutions and integrations. The company announced in June 2026 that it would introduce paid tiers, starting with a $4.99 monthly plan for individual developers, as part of a broader effort to fund ongoing development and enterprise features. This policy change aligns with industry trends toward monetizing developer access and platform services, but it also raises concerns about accessibility for smaller users.

“The introduction of paid tiers could reshape how hobbyists and small developers interact with the platform, possibly limiting innovation.”

— an anonymous researcher

Home Assistant Green | Smart Home hub with Advanced Automation | Official Home Assistant Hardware

💡 EASIEST WAY TO GET STARTED WITH HOME ASSISTANT – With Home Assistant already installed, it only requires…

AmazonView Latest Price

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Unclear Impact on Existing Users and Third-Party Platforms

It is not yet clear how many current users or third-party platforms, such as Home Assistant, will be significantly affected by the new charges. Details about transition periods, exemptions, or alternative options are still emerging, and Samsung has not provided comprehensive guidance for existing integrations or early adopters.

ESP32 & ESPHome in Practice: Build Custom Sensors and Controls for Your Smart Home – From Schematic to Home Assistant Integration (Your Smart Home with Home Assistant)

AmazonView Latest Price

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Next Steps for Developers and Users Ahead of October Rollout

Samsung is expected to release detailed information about the new pricing tiers and transition policies in the coming months. Developers and advanced users should monitor official communications to understand how the changes will affect their integrations and plan accordingly. The company may also introduce support or exemption options for certain user groups as the rollout approaches.

Home Assistant Green | Smart Home hub with Advanced Automation | Official Home Assistant Hardware

💡 EASIEST WAY TO GET STARTED WITH HOME ASSISTANT – With Home Assistant already installed, it only requires…

AmazonView Latest Price

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Key Questions

Will existing SmartThings API users be grandfathered in?

It is not yet clear whether current users will be exempted from the new charges or if they will need to transition to paid plans. Samsung has not announced specific grandfathering policies.

What does the $4.99 monthly fee cover?

The fee is intended to support access to the SmartThings API for non-commercial, individual developers, enabling them to build and maintain integrations within the platform. Details on included features or limits are expected to be clarified closer to the rollout.

Will this affect smart home devices and automation for regular consumers?

Most regular consumers will likely not be directly impacted unless they access the API for custom automation or third-party integrations. However, advanced users and developers who rely on API access may experience restrictions or costs.

Are there alternatives for developers who cannot afford the new fee?

At this time, no alternative options have been announced. Developers and users may need to explore other platforms or wait for further guidance from Samsung.

Source: The Verge