Samsung Electronics has suspended a SmartThings software update for its refrigerators after users reported that devices stopped functioning. The issue emerged on September 22 in South Korea, just days before the Chuseok holiday. Users noted that refrigerators became unresponsive, stopped cooling, and displayed an update status that would not complete.
The malfunction primarily affects the Bespoke AI four-door refrigerator series released in 2024. According to reports, the error occurred because Samsung accidentally pushed internal test software to consumer devices. The company confirmed it halted the distribution of the update immediately after identifying the deployment error.
Samsung has issued a public apology and requested that affected users schedule on-site repairs, as technicians must physically inspect the units. The company advised customers to store food in coolers with ice in the interim. However, some users reported that the repair booking system is currently overwhelmed due to high demand.
While Samsung stated that engineers and support staff will remain on duty during the Chuseok holiday to address urgent cooling failures, some customers were told that service visits might not be possible until after the holiday. Samsung has not yet disclosed the total number of affected units or announced any compensation plans for spoiled food.
