Samsung eyes wind-free air conditioning innovation with AI

Models promote Samsung Electronics' 2026 Bespoke AI WindFree Combo Gallery air conditioner during a press conference at the company's R&D center in southern Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics

After pioneering the new segment of wind-free air conditioning 10 years ago, Samsung Electronics is now seeking to take the segment to the next level by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) that learns from the use patterns of its customers.

“The identity of Samsung Electronics’ air conditioners is wind-free technology,” Samsung Electronics Head of Air Solution R&D Team Shin Moon-sun said during a press conference at the company’s R&D center in southern Seoul.

“We have been applying wind-free technology across our air conditioner product lineup and maintaining the same approach globally,” Shin said. “We believe wind-free technology is the best solution for keeping indoor temperatures evenly balanced and comfortable.”

Wind-free, or still air, refers to an atmospheric condition of less than 0.15 meters per second of airflow, according to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Samsung rolled out the world’s first wind-free air conditioning technology in 2016, and has since sold more than 13 million wind-free air conditioners in Korea. It now sells millions of units a year globally, Shin said.

Samsung Electronics Head of Air Solution R&D Team Shin Moon-sun speaks during a press conference on the 2026 Bespoke AI WindFree Combo Gallery air conditioner at the company's R&D center in southern Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics

Over the years, Samsung has upgraded the wind-free air conditioner form factors by applying various technologies, including voice recognition in 2018, body-warming airflow in 2022 and new energy saving functions last year.

To mark the latest update, the company unveiled its 2026 Bespoke AI WindFree Combo Gallery air conditioner series during the press conference. Coming in free-standing and wall types, the new products deliver optimized airflow tailored to user environments and lifestyles based on AI assistance, while offering slimmer and sleeker designs for greater aesthetic appeal.

In particular, the AI Direct and AI Indirect airflow modes deliver a more advanced cooling experience through motion radar sensors that detect users’ location, presence and activity levels.

A Samsung Electronics employee detaches fans inside the 2026 Bespoke AI WindFree Combo Gallery air conditioner during a press conference at the company's R&D center in southern Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics

The new models are equipped with an upgraded version of Samsung’s AI voice assistant, Bixby, to better understand users’ intentions. Users can ask how to operate the device or control it through natural language commands such as “turn on the air conditioner and activate dehumidification mode when humidity exceeds 60 percent.”

By learning use patterns, the system improved energy efficiency by up to 58 percent, while cooling speed was enhanced by 19 percent compared to the previous model. Cleaning became easier as the front panel, filters and fans inside the body can be fully detached for washing.

“We will provide an upgrade in users’ air conditioning experience through AI functions,” Shin said. “Based on our distinguished technologies and experiences, we will consolidate our leadership in the global air conditioner market.”