Samsung has just released a new update for the SmartThings app with many notable features, notably the ability to integrate Now Bar. With version 1.8.33.25, users can quickly access devices and automation scenarios right from the lock screen or notification bar, in the form of Live Activities. This is the first time SmartThings has deeply supported this feature, opening up a more convenient smart home control experience.

According to the account @Theordysm on the X platform, this update brings important changes, not just stopping at fixing bugs like previous versions. The addition of Now Bar helps users quickly activate settings such as lights, temperature, or device status without having to open the SmartThings app.

Tasks are displayed as interactive chips, allowing them to be turned on and off right on the lock screen or quick control panel. To enable it, users just need to go to Settings, select Lock screen and Always On Display, continue to select Now Bar, and expand the More options section to add SmartThings to the display list.

Although this feature is not clearly stated in the official update notes, many users consider this a surprising but very useful addition.

In addition to the Now Bar integration, the update also brings many other improvements. Users can now share the location of the Galaxy SmartTag via a temporary link for 12 hours, 24 hours, or 1 week. Up to 5 people can view the shared location, but they need to log in with a Samsung account to access the information.

A new section called “Home Life” also appears, which acts as a quick survey of the user’s living space. Based on information such as the number of people in the family or whether they have pets or not, SmartThings will make appropriate customization suggestions.

Another notable change is that the automation system now supports pre-execution confirmation. This feature helps reduce scenarios where the script runs at the wrong time, especially when the user is absent or does not want the automation to take place. If there is no response, the command will be automatically canceled.

Finally, the app also has improved state memory. When the user exits the app, the next time they open it, they will return to the same tab they were using before, such as the Home tab or the device map. According to SamMobile, the update is being released in stages, so users will likely receive it in the near future.