For Global Accessibility Awareness Day, here’s new updates to our accessibility products.​

Mobile technology is a powerful tool, delivering connection, creativity, entertainment and information. It is essential to how we communicate with friends, family and the world around us, and we believe that everyone should have equitable access to it.



At Samsung, we design meaningful, human-centric innovations that offer people greater control and more enriching experiences in their daily lives. Through a variety of Galaxy features — from simple, easy devices gestures to auditory assistants and vision enhancements — we strive to open access to technology that works for people of all abilities.



To celebrate this year’s Global Accessibility Awareness Day, let’s take a look at some of these features and how we continue to bridge barriers.

Making the Galaxy Experience More Accessible​

Adding Clarity With Relumino Mode

Born out of Samsung’s in-house incubator, Relumino Mode was designed to improve the lives of those with low vision by increasing the visibility of on-screen text and images. This feature enhances the screen’s contrast and brightness and sharpens image outlines and shapes, enabling users to easily discern content on their devices.



To understand our users’ perspectives and needs, we collaborated with advisors with low vision, researchers, engineers, programmers and testers to develop a solution for inclusive visual displays. Relumino Mode is the product of years of research and development to advance Samsung’s goal of providing “Screens for All” and improving the viewing experience for those with limited vision. This new feature is available in the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and beyond.



From following a ball during a sports match to reading smaller text on a news broadcast, Relumino Mode1 helps users with low vision to connect with the world and enjoy content that matters most to them.



Enabling Relumino:









Providing Audio Descriptions With TalkBack

The TalkBack2 feature, also known as Voice Assistant, is designed to help users with low or no vision to get the most out of their device experience without looking at their screens. This feature transforms Galaxy smartphones and tablets into an intuitive audio interface. As users navigate their devices, Talkback can provide speech feedback for anything they touch, highlight or select, such as menus, emails and notifications. TalkBack shortcuts can also be enabled for more seamless navigation.



Navigating the screen is simple. With easy-to-use gestures, such as Swipe Left, Double Tap or Use Two Fingers To Scroll, TalkBack provides users the freedom to control their devices conveniently.



Turning on TalkBack:














Bringing Media to Life With Live Captions

Live Captions3 helps those who are hard of hearing to follow their favorite media and audio content effortlessly. The feature transcribes audio as it plays through the device in real-time. With Live Captions, users can better enjoy videos, podcasts, phone and video calls, audio messages and voicemails.

Live Captions are available in English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.4



Activating Live Captions:

Fostering Inclusivity Through Accessories and Wearables​

Amplifying the World With Ambient Sound

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro features an Ambient Sound setting that adapts background noise at five levels of amplification,5 designed to cater to a diverse range of needs and situations. This feature gives users the ability to customize how they want to hear and experience sound. From making a conversation more audible to increasing the noise of traffic at a crosswalk, the Ambient Sound feature allows users to participate in social interactions while being aware of their surroundings.



Setting up Ambient Sound:
















Reimagining Your Galaxy Watch With Universal Gestures6

Universal Gestures offers an innovative way to use your Galaxy Watch touch-free. With four intuitive gestures, Make Fist, Make Fist Twice, Pinch and Double Pinch, users can navigate their Galaxy interface, open apps, scroll messages and more, without needing to push down or touch the screen with force.



Prompting Universal Gestures:

A Better World for Everyone​

Samsung is on a journey to advance a more inclusive and sustainable future through our innovations and open collaborations, and will continue to take steps in delivering accessibility features to our devices, so more people can enjoy what our Galaxy products have to offer. The work does not end here.



For more information, visit our Galaxy Mobile Accessibility page.





1 Relumino Mode is available on Galaxy S24 series operating on One UI 6.1 or above.
2 Talkback is available on all Galaxy smartphones.
3 Live Caption is available on Galaxy smartphones with 4GB memory or higher.
4 Additional languages will be available in coming updates.
5 Additional two levels can be activated in the Laboratory — Ambient Sound menu under Earbuds settings in the Galaxy Wearable app.
6 Universal Gestures is available on Galaxy Watch6, Watch5 and Watch4 series with One UI 5 Watch.​

Galaxy AI now supports 16 languages, helping more people to lower language barriers with real-time and on-device translation. Samsung opened the door to a new era of mobile AI, so we are visiting Samsung Research centers all over the world to learn how Galaxy AI came to life and what it took to overcome the challenges of AI development. While part one of the series examines the task of determining what data is needed, this installment looks at the complex task of accounting for dialects.



Teaching a language to an AI model is a complex process, but what if it isn’t a singular language, but a collection of diverse dialects? That was the challenge faced by the team at Samsung R&D Institute Jordan (SRJO). While Arabic was added as a language option for Galaxy AI features such as Live Translate, the team had to cater to the various Arabic dialects that span the Middle East and North Africa, with each varying in pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar.



Arabic is one of the top six most widely spoken languages around the world, used daily by more than 400 million people.1 The language is categorized into two forms: Fus’ha (Modern Standard Arabic) and Ammiya (the dialects of Arabic). Fus’ha is typically used in public and official events, as well as in news broadcasts, while Ammiya is more commonly used for day-to-day conversations. Over 20 countries use Arabic, and there are currently around 30 dialects in the region.

Unwritten Rules​

Recognizing the variation presented by these dialects, the team at SRJO employed a range of techniques to discern and process the unique linguistic features inherent in each. This approach was crucial in ensuring that Galaxy AI could understand and respond in a way that accurately reflects the regional nuances.



“Unlike other languages, the pronunciation of the object in Arabic varies depending on the subject and verb in the sentence,” says Mohammad Hamdan, project leader of the Arabic language development team. “Our goal is to develop a model that understands all these dialects and can answer in standard Arabic.”



TTS is the component of Galaxy AI’s Live Translate feature that lets users interact with speakers of different languages by translating spoken words into written text, and then vocally reproducing them. The TTS team faced a unique challenge, caused by the quirk of working with Arabic.







Arabic uses diacritics, which are guides for the pronunciation of words in some contexts, such as religious texts, poetry and books for language learners. Diacritics are widely understood by native speakers but absent in everyday writing. This makes it difficult for a machine to convert raw text into phonemes, the basic units of sound that are the building blocks of speech.



“There is a shortage of high-quality and reliable datasets that accurately represent how diacritics are correctly used,” explains Haweeleh. “We had to design a neural model that can predict and restore those missing diacritics with high accuracy.”



Neural models work similarly to human brains. To predict diacritics, a model needs to study lots of Arabic text, learn the language’s rules and understand how words are used in different contexts. For instance, the pronunciation of a word can vary greatly depending on the action or gender it describes. Extensive training from the team was the key to enhancing the Arabic TTS model’s accuracy.

Enhancing Understanding​

The SRJO team also had to collect diverse audio recordings of the dialects from various sources, which had to be transcribed, focusing on unique sounds, words and phrases. “We assembled a team of native speakers in the dialects who were well-versed in the nuances and variations,” says Ayah Hasan, whose team was responsible for database creation. “They listened to the recordings and manually converted the spoken words into text.”







This work was crucial for enhancing the Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) process so that Galaxy AI could handle the rich tapestry of Arabic dialects. ASR is pivotal in enabling Galaxy AI’s real-time understanding and response capabilities.



“Building an ASR system that supports multiple dialects in a single model is a complex undertaking,” says Mohammad Hamdan, ASR lead for the project. “It demands a thorough understanding of the language’s intricacies, careful data selection and advanced modeling techniques.”

The Culmination of Innovation​

After months of planning, building and testing, the team was ready to release Arabic as a language option for Galaxy AI, enabling many more people to communicate across borders. This single team has made Galaxy AI services accessible to Arabic speakers, lowering the language and cultural barriers between them and people all over the world. In doing so, they have established new best practices that can be rolled out globally. This success is only the beginning: the team continues to refine their models and enhance the quality of Galaxy AI’s language capabilities.







In the next episode, we go to Vietnam to see how the team makes language data better. Plus, what does it take to train an effective AI model?



Arabic is just one part of the languages and dialects newly supported by Galaxy AI and available for download from the Settings app. Galaxy AI’s language features such as Live Translate and Interpreter are available on Galaxy devices running Samsung’s One UI 6.1 update.2








1 UNESCO, World Arabic Language Day 2023, World Arabic Language Day
2 One UI 6.1 was first released on Galaxy S24 series devices with a wider roll out to other Galaxy devices including S23 series, S23 FE, S22 series, S21 series, Z Fold5, Z Fold4, Z Fold3, Z Flip5, Z Flip4, Z Flip3, Tab S9 series and Tab S8 series​

Samsung’s Bespoke AI appliances are equipped with various features that reduce challenges faced by people with disabilities or anyone with difficulties using home appliances.



In honor of Global Accessibility Awareness Day on May 16, Samsung Newsroom has outlined the accessibility features of Bespoke AI appliances that allow easy and convenient use for all.

Designed With Mobility in Mind​

Both Samsung’s Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator with AI Family Hub and Bespoke AI Laundry Combo feature Auto Open Door — a function that helps users open the doors of these appliances. Refrigerator doors will open with a light touch, and laundry machine doors will open when turned on or when a cycle is complete. This function makes appliance use much easier for people who may struggle with opening doors such as the elderly or those in wheelchairs.




▲ Bespoke AI Laundry Combo with Auto Open Door

Full Control Through Audio and Voice​

Bixby’s1 voice command feature allows users to control devices around the home using only their voice, relieving the burden of device operation for people with low vision. Through voice commands, Bespoke WindFree Air Conditioner stand models can control other home appliances — such as refrigerators and washing machines — once connected to SmartThings.



Devices that offer Voice assistant audibly read user commands and the status of each appliance. Included on select Samsung air conditioners and robot vacuum cleaners, this feature will be expanded via a software update to the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo and other products equipped with AI Home — a 7-inch LCD touchscreen panel that helps control home appliances.



Accessible sounds — available on select refrigerator models for people with low vision — provide audio feedback in a series of distinct sounds with varying scales and syllable breaks, allowing users to better navigate operation controls. Samsung is now expanding this feature to Bespoke AI refrigerators and other products, so users can easily adjust the temperature of the refrigerator and freezer compartments.




▲ A usage example of Samsung Bixby’s voice command feature

Created for All Ages​

Samsung is expanding its Senior Care feature to more appliances via AI Home to enhance readability through larger fonts.



Additionally, select induction cooktops feature Child Lock — a function that disables cooktop control to prevent accidental operation by children or pets. The lock can be controlled remotely on the SmartThings app.



Samsung plans to accelerate its development of accessibility technology under the slogan “AI for All” so that convenience in daily life can be enjoyed by everyone.





※ Availability of the features and functions mentioned above may vary by country and region, for applicable models only.



※ When connecting to the SmartThings is required: Users must download the SmartThings app available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.



1 Bixby recognizes select languages and certain accents/dialects. The user interface may change and differ by device. The availability of Bixby features and content providers may vary depending on the country/carrier/language/device model/OS version. A Samsung account log-in and an internet connection (Wi-Fi or data network) are required.​

From Theft Detection Lock to casting on Rivian to Wear OS 5 updates, here’s what’s coming to Android 15 and its device ecosystem.​

Android rolls out theft protection features to safeguard your data before, during and after a theft incident.​

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Here’s more ways you can experience Google AI on Android. Learn how on-device AI is changing what your phone can do.​

We pick up our mobile devices hundreds of times each day and now rely on them to such an extent that we rarely leave the house without them. They’re an extension of us, and explosive new technologies like AI and generative AI bring hugely exciting opportunities to what you can do with your device — or rather, what your device can enable you to do.



But while technology changes, your right to privacy doesn’t. New developments mean new ways of data being processed. At Samsung, we think you should have the full picture when it comes to your personal information. We believe transparency, choice and control must be at the core of the mobile experience.



In this highly digitized world, your security and privacy are more important than ever, so it’s only right that our users have full control over their devices. That’s why we focus on providing solutions that allow you to have complete controllability and total empowerment over how your data is used.

Security & Privacy Dashboard:​

This belief is the cornerstone of our Security & Privacy Dashboard. The Dashboard enables you to have complete control over your data, including who sees it and how it gets used. In one simple and easy-to-use interface, you can view, create and update your app permissions, controls and data-sharing features — effectively enabling you to call the shots on your data and customize your experience, your way.



The Dashboard also allows you to see any data that may be at risk, intuitively showing you the safety status of security items.




▲ Settings > Security and privacy




From there, you can quickly and easily change your settings to manage potential dangers at the touch of a button. Items are ordered in priority of the functions that could have the most significant impact on your online safety — such as lock screen, account security, lost device protection via Find My Mobile, app security and updates. These are instantly accessible at the top, with intuitive red, yellow or green alerts showing any problems at a glance and providing clear indicators of any security issues.



Of course, we also do the work for you. Apps can continue tracking data for months, even when they are not in use — but Galaxy devices proactively remove permissions from apps that have not been used in a while, which can then be reinstated if you choose in the Dashboard.



You can do this through Permission Manager and Permission Usage. Permission Manager easily shows you which apps can access your data — whether it’s your location, camera or microphone and in which context (for example, if it’s only when using the app). Permission Usage provides an easy way for you to see your recently used permissions — specifically, which apps have used a certain permission in the last 24 hours or seven days. And, to make things even easier, we also provide instant action prompts through the Dashboard to help make data decisions more intuitive and transparent.



It’s simple to access your Security & Privacy Dashboard. Just go to Settings and Security & Privacy, where you can review and adjust permissions as you see fit.



You can also play with features to further enhance your device’s privacy, such as the Clipboard Access toggle. Turning this setting on (by going to Settings, then Privacy and looking for the toggle “Alert when clipboard accessed”) means that any time an app pastes something from your clipboard, you’ll get a notification. No more hidden activity.



It’s never been easier to see and understand your data privacy with Galaxy. We put the control in your hands.

Find My Mobile / Samsung Find:​

It’s one of life’s inevitabilities — at some point, we all misplace our phones. But with Find My Mobile and Samsung Find, you no longer need to worry about your device’s personal information getting into the wrong hands.



Once Find My Mobile is enabled, Samsung Find allows you to locate, lock and even erase your device’s data to create an access lockdown. You can find your device even if it’s not connected to a mobile network, as long as it’s turned on. And through Samsung Find, it’s not only your Galaxy phone you can hunt down — but also your Galaxy Buds, tablets, watches and other devices.



The additional options available make it easier than ever to find your devices. Users can invite family members in the Samsung Find app to view the location or activate ringing noises to help track down shared devices. To give yourself the best chance of locating lost devices with Samsung Find, you can extend the battery life by remotely turning on power saving mode.




▲ Settings > Security and privacy > Lost device protection




With Galaxy, you’re empowered to stay in complete control of your device — even when it’s not physically with you.

Advanced Intelligence Settings:​

As an industry-leading global manufacturer, Samsung is focused on enhancing the device experience through dedicated AI features while prioritizing privacy in the era of AI. Many of our Galaxy AI features use on-device data processing which means sensitive information stays with you and you alone. For those features that do require processing in the cloud or external servers, we make sure your data is protected with strict policies.



In a world of AI-enhanced experiences, we know that not everyone wants to use cloud-based AI. For some, keeping data on-device is a priority. So, while innovation is important to us, we believe it’s just as, if not more important that we continue to empower our users with the choice over their own experience.



That choice is yours with our Advanced Intelligence settings.1 Built into our Galaxy AI-supported devices, these settings let you decide how much you allow your data to enhance AI experiences and whether you want to allow online processing for full AI functionality.



To access the settings, open Settings and select Advanced features, then Advanced intelligence. Here, you’ll see the option to “Process data only on device.”




▲ Settings > Advanced features > Advanced intelligence




We’re still just as committed to providing our users with transparency, choice and control over their devices in this epic new world. It’s all up to you, and it’s never been easier to see and understand what happens to your data at all times.



Your privacy, secured with Galaxy.





1 Availability may vary by device model, OS and/or market.​

With less than 100 days left until Paris 2024, Samsung Electronics opened a brand new Olympic and Paralympic Games experience on May 3 in the heart of the City of Lights — the Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung | Champs-Elysees 125.



Samsung Newsroom captured highlights from the showcase opening where attendees created lifelong memories with Galaxy.

Ushering a New Era With Galaxy Technology​

As a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, Samsung has been constantly striving to enhance and enrich the Olympic and Paralympic Games experience for athletes and millions of fans around the world. We’re now taking things to the next level for Paris 2024 with the latest Galaxy innovation.



At Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung | Champs-Elysees 125, visitors can embark on a journey through AI-infused innovations on Galaxy devices that allow them to achieve what they never thought was possible.
















▲ French content creator Logan Five visited the showcase and shared content creation tips with fans





▲ Fans met fashion influencer Paola who displayed her favorite fits this season using Galaxy AI features.

An Iconic Space Created by Starchitect Jean Nouvel​

To create this experience space, Samsung worked with Jean Nouvel — whose groundbreaking work mirrors the remarkable spirit of Olympic and Paralympic athletes, constantly pushing boundaries of what’s possible. Inspired by Parisian salons from the Age of Enlightenment, the showcase celebrates new perspectives and possibilities. Designed with openness, harmony and connection in mind, the space is embellished with black and blue — capturing reflections of light that fleetingly appear and disappear to pique the curiosity of visitors.

Look Back at Samsung Olympic & Paralympic Innovation Over the Years​

Samsung has been a partner of the Games for nearly four decades. The company has always provided its latest mobile technologies to support the Games — allowing athletes and fans to stay connected, even back when smartphones didn’t exist.



At the Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung | Champs-Elysees 125, visitors can travel back in time and explore how the technologies have evolved with every historical Olympic Games.

Get Your Hands on the Latest Innovation on Galaxy S24 Series​

Attendees can travel through themed experiential spaces where they can test out the latest AI features on Galaxy devices like Live Translate, which can be used to navigate around Paris and find hidden gems without worrying about any language barriers.



At an interactive Paris-themed photo zone, guests can shoot and edit photos using Photo Assist to remove objects and reflections.

Celebrating the Olympic Games’ Newest Sports​

To celebrate some of the latest sports that will take the stage at Paris 2024, guests can step into the shoes of Olympians for a day and enjoy a mobile skateboarding game or an epic breakdancing experience with FlexCam.

Celebrate the Games With Galaxy​

At the showcase, visitors can check out the Olympic spirit with Paris 2024-themed Galaxy smartphone cases and even download Samsung Galaxy X Paris 2024 The Phryges Themes to customize their phones. Lastly, attendees can create custom phone straps made from discarded fishing nets to unleash their creativity and celebrate the Games in Galaxy style.

About the Olympic

rendezvous @ Samsung​

The Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung | Champs-Elysees 125 will run until October 31 from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sundays. Exciting events await throughout the summer including meet and greets with Team Galaxy celebrities and athletes, Galaxy AI Academy workshops and much more!



Samsung will also open additional Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung spaces toward the beginning of the Games around Paris and the surrounding area — including the Olympic Park, the Olympic & Paralympic Village and charging stations at key Olympic and Paralympic Games venues — where visitors will get to experience the latest Galaxy innovations.​