Independent New Samsung Team to Explore 3D Printing, Robotics, Internet of Things

As many overseas electronics companies have struggled to keep their heads above water since the decline of the VCR, coupled with economic crises, Samsung has remained a solid role model for business and progress due to epic ambition driving continual forward thinking.

They have rolled with — and often driven — the times, technologically and electronically speaking. This couldn’t be more apparent as we saw them emerge as a formidable player against Apple in the smartphone industry.

Historically, Samsung has been involved in supplying nearly all things electronic to the contemporary consumer, from phones to computers to entertainment and home theater, as well as LED lighting and futuristic security. In this age of super speed and instant gratification, we expect them to pretty much give us whatever we need or want to make life easier — and more fun. And if it’s not available today, we expect that surely it’s in development.

Strong, and carrying the burden of our electronics wants and needs on its shoulders, Samsung is well aware of what consumers expect, as well as what the growing trends are. With a recent announcement that they’ve put together a team to research high-tech advancements, one has to wonder what great new heights this will take them to.

As competition continues to mount in the areas they currently lead, it’s predicted Samsung’s light will continue to outshine them, with current ongoing talks with Facebook and the potential to expand their portfolio through that relationship as well.

But Samsung has their future sights set, unsurprisingly, on 3D printing. With a technology sweeping the world and the headlines, as well as incorporating electronics and robotics, it’s exciting to think about how they will take this ball and run. Other areas they plan to explore are:

• Virtual reality
• Robots
• Robotic telepresence
• Drones
• Unmanned vehicles

Samsung has a specific team made up of technicians, strategists, and project managers, all dedicated to research and development in these areas. They will operate independently from other divisions.

“Given the significance of the team, members will have more authority and independence because the main purpose of the team isn’t to develop single devices for any imminent results, but to develop solutions to go with Samsung’s manufacturing capabilities,” a Samsung official said.

Their goal is to make a shift from singular product sales into comprehensive solutions, which melds with the trends today toward ‘smart’ homes and the Internet of Things.

“Samsung’s previous success was mostly due to releasing products that are competitive in pricing,” another official explained. “This is an old business formula. We need to constantly explore new ways to meet the needs of people through innovation and updated technologies.

“This is why Samsung is accelerating efforts to collaborate with governments and is putting more focus on developing solutions embedded with our components and technologies.”

Rather than fighting the idea that consumers may want to start producing a vast number of items themselves — from wrenches and household products to items with complex electrical components — Samsung is embracing the ideals of the maker community and the trend in self-sustainability, as users explore what they can create now directly from their desktops. Consumers also want to continue to streamline daily operations from the home to office, and these days those are very likely one in the same for their typical customer base.

“The team will explore how technologies could help people’s daily life for a better future,” an official said.

What types of technology are you looking toward, or currently using, that streamline your daily life in an improved way? Tell us what you think about Samsung’s recent announcement and mission for new direction in the Independent New Samsung Team to Explore 3D Printing forum over at 3DPB.com.