Samsung Responds to Criticism, Allows Users to Disable Ads on Fridges

Samsung has responded to widespread criticism by allowing users to disable advertisements on its premium smart refrigerators. This decision comes after customers expressed frustration over the introduction of ads on devices that cost thousands of dollars. The company had previously rolled out a software update that added advertisements across various cover screen themes, leading to significant backlash from consumers.

The Family Hub refrigerator models, known for their advanced features and large touchscreens, have become a focal point of consumer discontent. Users initially discovered that ads were appearing on the screen, which is typically used for recipes, entertainment, device management, and shopping tools. Many customers felt that premium appliances should not be subjected to unsolicited promotional content.

In an unexpected move, Samsung’s update did not provide users with the option to turn off the ads, prompting disappointment and concerns about the brand’s commitment to future software support. Users voiced their worries regarding the implications of such ads on ongoing software updates and overall functionality.

In response to the mounting criticism, Samsung has released a new software update that allows users to turn off advertisements. A Reddit user first reported the addition of an Advertisements toggle within the device settings. This toggle enables users to control the display of ads, addressing a primary concern among consumers.

Users can now navigate to the Settings menu, scroll to the bottom, and find the toggle option to turn ads on or off. This feature effectively removes promotional content from the cover screen and restores the refrigerator’s interface to its previous ad-free state.

The company’s decision to introduce this toggle has been welcomed by many consumers, particularly those who felt frustrated by the initial lack of control. The change highlights the impact of user feedback, demonstrating that consumer voices, even when expressed through informal online platforms, can influence major technology companies like Samsung.

By implementing this straightforward solution, Samsung has regained some trust from its customer base, showing that responsiveness to feedback can lead to improved user satisfaction.