SmartThings & Home Assistant
Samsung SmartThings integrates with Home Assistant through the SmartThings cloud API, bringing SmartThings-connected devices (Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi) into your Home Assistant dashboard. The integration syncs device states, supports control commands, and can trigger automations based on SmartThings device events.
This is a cloud-based integration — commands route through Samsung’s SmartThings cloud. SmartThings is often used as a bridge for its Zigbee/Z-Wave radio, giving Home Assistant access to devices that were originally set up through SmartThings without re-pairing them.
Selora does not recommend hardware that depends on SmartThings
Samsung is ending free SmartThings API access. Free access continues through Q3 2026; from October 2026 individual developers need a $4.99/month plan, with separate paid commercial tiers for business use. The Home Assistant integration depends on that API, so keeping a SmartThings device automated becomes a subscription, on top of the cloud latency and token expiry the integration already carries.
The integration itself stays useful where SmartThings is already the hub holding a client’s Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, and migrating those devices to local control is the fix. What Selora will not do is specify new hardware whose only path into Home Assistant is this API. Samsung’s soundbars are exactly that case and are on the devices we do not recommend list.
HA DocumentationHow SmartThings Works with Home Assistant
Getting SmartThings connected to Home Assistant and running reliably.
Secure pairing
Add SmartThings through the integrations panel. Smart locks pair securely and appear as lock entities with state reporting and control.
Access code management
Create, modify, and revoke PIN codes directly from Home Assistant. Set time-limited codes for guests, cleaners, or contractors.
Presence-based automation
Build automations that lock doors when everyone leaves and unlock when trusted family members arrive. Combine with cameras and lights for complete entry workflows.
Common SmartThings Issues
The problems installers run into with SmartThings and Home Assistant — and how a managed setup prevents them.
Paid API subscription required from October 2026
Samsung is ending free SmartThings API access. From October 2026, the API that powers this integration requires a paid plan: $4.99/month for individual developers, with separate commercial tiers for business use. Free access continues through Q3 2026, after which the integration stops working without a subscription.
Cloud latency on every command
Every command to a SmartThings device routes through Samsung's cloud servers, adding 1-3 seconds of latency. This is noticeable compared to local integrations and affects time-sensitive automations.
SmartThings API token expiration
The Personal Access Token used for the integration expires periodically. When it does, all SmartThings devices become unavailable until a new token is generated and configured.
Duplicate device management
Devices managed by both SmartThings and Home Assistant natively (like Zigbee devices that could connect directly) create duplicate entities and state synchronization conflicts.
Why installers choose managed SmartThings migration
- Migration strategy to move devices off the SmartThings cloud API before the October 2026 paid requirement takes effect
- Move devices from SmartThings cloud to local control, avoiding ongoing API subscription costs
- Token refresh automation to prevent periodic authentication failures
- Duplicate entity cleanup and unified device management
- Gradual migration path that keeps clients operational during the transition
SmartThings devices in our catalog
Hardware from the Selora catalog that runs on this integration. Every one of them carries a not-recommended badge: the integration works, but Selora will not specify this hardware on new work.
Speakers & Audio
3 devices
Q-Series Soundbar Q800H
The HW-Q800H is the mid-range 2026 Q-Series bar: 5.1.2 channels with physical side and up-firing drivers plus a compact wireless subwoofer, Q-Symphony, and Eclipsa Audio. Home Assistant reaches it through the SmartThings cloud, so the TV's local media_player remains the reliable automation target.
Q-Series Soundbar Q990H
The HW-Q990H is Samsung's flagship 11.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos system for 2026: a 7.0.2 main bar, wireless 4.0.2 rear speakers, and a compact dual 8-inch subwoofer. Home Assistant reaches Samsung audio only through the SmartThings cloud, so plan on the TV's local media_player carrying the automation and the bar following over HDMI eARC.
Q-Series Soundbar QS90H
The HW-QS90H is new for 2026, an all-in-one 7.1.2-channel bar with thirteen drivers and a built-in quad bass woofer, so there is no separate subwoofer to hide. Its Convertible Fit design and gyro sensor re-map the channels between wall and shelf mounting. Home Assistant control runs through the SmartThings cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Locks & Access Integrations
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