Samsung and Google are bringing Google’s generative AI tool Gemini to Samsung’s AI companion robot Ballie.
Ballie, set to be available to consumers this Summer, will be able to talk to homeowners using natural, conversational interactions to help users manage smart home systems, as well as helping to greet people as they want into the door, personalizing schedules, setting reminders, and more, the companies say. These capabilities are powered by Gemini, which is Google’s generative AI power tool, similar to ChatGPT.
The robot ball was first introduced by Samsung in 2020 as a concept but has gained momentum in recent years and is apparently finally a real product.
Samsung’s Ballie Serves as a Personal Assistant with Gemini AI
The robot ball will use Gemini’s multimodal AI capabilities and Samsung language models to process and understand inputs, such as audio and voice, visual data from its camera, and sensor data, allowing Ballie to adapt behaviors and responses in teal-time.
As an example, the companies say users can ask Ballie for help getting dressed for work in the morning and can ask Ballie for recommendations.
The companies also market Ballie’s ability to leverage Gemini to help users manage their health and wellness. For example, a user could tell Ballie, “I feel tired today.” Ballie could then use Gemini’s grounding in Google Search to give tailored advice on how to improve their energy levels, including sharing recommendations from trusted sources on how to get more exercise, optimize their sleeping environment, or monitor their sleep patterns.
Ballie AI the Latest in Samsung, Google Integrations
The integration of Gemini into Ballie comes after Google and Samsung have successfully integrated the two technologies in other products, including Samsung’s Galaxy S24 smartphone series. The companies also tease bringing new generative AI capabilities to a “wider range of devices.” What devices exactly is unclear, but comments from Yongjae Kim, Samsung’s executive vice president of the visual display business was included in the press release.
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“By pairing Gemini’s powerful multimodal reasoning with Samsung’s AI capabilities in Ballie, we’re leveraging the power of open collaboration to unlock a new era of personalized AI companion—one that moves with users, anticipates their needs, and interacts in more dynamic and meaningful ways than ever before,” Kim says.
“With Gemini on Google Cloud, Samsung is demonstrating how to deploy generative AI at scale, integrating it directly into the heart of their popular products,” said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. “This expanded partnership with Samsung underscores our commitment to delivering reliable, enterprise-grade AI that drives lasting value for our customers – and their customers.”
Additional Updates for SmartThings to Come as Well
Samsung has also rolled out a new update to its SmartThings home automation platform, aimed at deepening integration between AI, health insights, and connected home automation. The April 2025 update focuses on improving the user experience through enhanced sleep wellness features, expanded automation capabilities, and broader compatibility with Matter 1.4 devices.
Samsung Health Integration
One of the most significant additions is the integration with Samsung Health, enabling users to optimize their sleep environment by automatically adjusting elements like lighting, temperature, and air quality. Paired with devices such as the Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring, SmartThings routines can now be triggered when a user falls asleep or wakes up, offering a truly personalized and seamless smart home experience. These routines can even include automations like turning off the TV at bedtime or playing preferred music upon waking.
Improved Automation
The update also introduces expanded scheduling for automation routines, allowing triggers based on weekly, monthly, or annual events—perfect for occasions like birthdays or seasonal decor changes. Additionally, Samsung TV Plus integration on 2025 models means routines can now include media actions, such as turning on the morning news when users wake up.
Intercom Broadcasting
New intercom-style broadcasting capabilities have also been added, allowing users to send real-time voice messages through SmartThings-connected speakers—enhancing household communication whether family members are home or away.
Streamlined Onboarding
Samsung is also enhancing its Calm Onboarding experience by further streamlining the setup of SmartThings-compatible devices purchased directly from Samsung.com. Users will now receive delivery notifications and simplified onboarding instructions via the SmartThings app.
SmartThings Matter 1.4 Support
Finally, SmartThings expands its support for Matter 1.4, adding new energy management device categories like solar panels, water heaters, and battery systems. This strengthens Samsung’s role in the growing Matter ecosystem and furthers its commitment to interoperability, sustainability, and ease of use in the smart home.
