Samsung plans to challenge Apple with a home healthcare strategy

Samsung is actively seeking to enhance its position in the smartwatch market, which has seen increased competition, particularly from Apple. Emphasizing digital health, Samsung plans to leverage its existing ecosystem of home products to provide a comprehensive health monitoring experience for users. The company announced that a beta version of software offering new health features for the Galaxy Watch 5 and newer models would be available this month. This software update aims to offer innovative functionalities, including a method to measure antioxidant levels in the wearer's body, which could set Samsung apart from its competitors. A key feature focusing on dietary health is the ability to assess beta carotene levels, leveraging advanced LED technology. This process involves the user removing the watch and using a sensor on the back to shine lights on their skin, which can indicate their antioxidants status. The health update is not limited to dietary insights but also includes recommendations for better sleep and a personalized running coach interface to aid users in achieving fitness goals. This diversification in health features is a strategic move, especially against Apple's comparative innovations released in the same period. In the broader context, Samsung recognizes that it must overcome significant challenges to capture more of the smartwatch market; they only accounted for around 6% of global market share in early 2025. Apple dominates the market with approximately 20% share, creating a highly competitive environment for Samsung, which previously struggled to market its smartwatches as indispensable companions to smartphones. The company hopes that its commitment to preventative health care advice will resonate with consumers, especially as the industry shifts more towards home healthcare solutions. Moreover, Samsung is reportedly developing an AI-powered health chatbot and exploring ways to utilize smart glasses to enhance user interaction with dietary recommendations and health monitoring. This innovation may help identify if users are eating too quickly or consuming foods that may pose allergens. By packaging existing technology and focusing on a comprehensive health strategy, Samsung aims to improve its market standing and consumer engagement in the smartwatch domain while navigating its ongoing limitations with iPhone compatibility.