ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Samsung is rolling out a redesigned version of Bixby on smart TVs.
- The new Bixby will have upgraded conversational abilities.
- You’ll also be able to control smart home devices.
If you have a Samsung television, you’re about to get a big upgrade to your TV’s built-in Bixby assistant.
In a recent announcement, Samsung detailed a redesigned Bixby that brings a host of new features, including the ability to look up information, utilize Click to Search, and even control your smart home.
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At present, Bixby is essentially a voice-controlled extension of your remote. You can use it to do basic things like open apps, control your TV’s volume, control media playback, check the weather, or search for content.
Here’s what’s coming with the new Bixby.
1. Smarter, more natural conversations
Samsung says the new Bixby assistant, powered by generative AI, will provide a much more natural experience compared to the previous version. Bixby can answer any question you have and understand context and follow-up questions, letting you have more of a flowing conversation.
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You can ask queries like, “What’s the tallest mountain in America” or “Suggest a chill playlist for a rainy day”. Bixby can also answer questions about what’s on your screen.
2. Click to Search
Bixby is now integrated into Click to Search, letting you discover and explore while watching live TV, cable channels, or Samsung TV Plus. You can ask about an actor, a show, or a broader topic, and get answers right on your TV.
3. More smart home controls
The updated Bixby goes beyond your television, Samsung explains, and makes your smart TV a smart home hub. You can now connect and control Samsung SmartThings appliances by speaking directly to your screen. This includes commands like “Turn off the oven now,” or “Set the air conditioner to 25 degrees.”
Rolling out in the US today
This isn’t Samsung’s only investment into bringing more AI to its TVs. The company said last fall that it would offer seven years of Tizen OS software upgrades to its AI-powered TVs, hopefully helping your TV last longer. Samsung currently holds the top place in the world TV market (it topped our list of the best TVs of 2025), making up 28.8% of revenue.
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The new Bixby will start rolling out in the US today. It will be available on 2025 Samsung TVs, including Neo QLED, OLED, The Frame, and QLED models.
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