How to Connect Samsung TV to Alexa

Smart TVs are now a key part of the modern home, offering everything from streaming apps to smart home integration. For UK homeowners with a Samsung TV, one of the most popular upgrades is connecting it to Alexa. Doing so allows you to control your TV hands-free, using simple voice commands through Echo devices. You can turn the TV on or off, change channels, adjust the volume, open apps like Netflix or BBC iPlayer, and even control connected devices like soundbars.

The process is relatively straightforward once you understand how Alexa interacts with Samsung’s ecosystem, particularly through SmartThings. This detailed guide explains how to connect your Samsung TV to Alexa, which models are compatible, how to troubleshoot issues, and how to make the most of voice control once everything is set up. Whether you’re setting it up for the first time or reconnecting after a WiFi change, this article walks you through each step clearly and thoroughly.

Why Connect a Samsung TV to Alexa

Linking your Samsung TV to Alexa transforms how you use it. Instead of picking up a remote, you can ask Alexa to change channels, switch inputs, pause playback, or open apps. If your hands are full or you’ve misplaced the remote, Alexa becomes your voice-operated control centre.

Beyond basic commands, Alexa can also make your home smarter by linking your TV with other devices. For example, you could create a routine that turns on the TV, dims the lights, and closes the blinds when you say, “Alexa, movie night.” It’s particularly helpful for accessibility, reducing the need for physical interaction and simplifying control across multiple smart devices.

Connecting your TV to Alexa also means you can monitor and control it from anywhere using the Alexa app. If you’re unsure whether you left the TV on before heading out, you can check its status and turn it off remotely.

Understanding How Samsung TVs Work with Alexa

To understand how Alexa connects to Samsung TVs, it helps to know how Samsung’s smart system functions. Samsung’s Smart TVs use the SmartThings platform, which acts as the bridge between your TV and Alexa. SmartThings allows your TV to communicate with other devices on your WiFi network, including Echo speakers, smart plugs, and lighting.

Alexa then links to SmartThings through your Amazon account, letting you use voice commands for TV control. The connection doesn’t require any extra hardware if your Samsung TV is a 2018 model or newer, as these models have built-in Alexa support or are SmartThings-compatible. Older models, however, may need an external Alexa device like an Echo Dot or Echo Show to act as the voice interface.

Checking Compatibility Before You Begin

Before starting, it’s essential to make sure your Samsung TV is compatible with Alexa. Most Smart TVs released from 2018 onwards include SmartThings and Alexa integration. You can check by going to your TV’s settings, selecting “General,” then “Voice.” If Alexa or “Voice Assistant” appears as an option, your TV supports it natively.

If your TV doesn’t have built-in Alexa, you can still connect it using an Echo device and the SmartThings app. This method provides nearly identical functionality, although certain advanced commands, like searching for titles within apps, may not be available on older models.

For UK users, compatibility extends to popular TV ranges such as Samsung Crystal UHD, QLED, Neo QLED, and Frame models.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

To connect your Samsung TV to Alexa, you’ll need the following:

·         A Samsung Smart TV with SmartThings enabled

·         An Amazon Alexa device such as an Echo Dot, Echo Show, or Echo Studio

·         The Alexa app installed on your phone or tablet

·         The SmartThings app installed and set up with your Samsung account

·         A stable WiFi network with both devices connected to the same network

You’ll also need to sign in to your Samsung and Amazon accounts, which will be linked later through the SmartThings skill in the Alexa app.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Connect Samsung TV to Alexa

The process involves setting up your TV in SmartThings, linking SmartThings to Alexa, and then managing your devices through the Alexa app.

Start by turning on your Samsung TV and ensuring it’s connected to WiFi. On your smartphone, open the SmartThings app and log in with your Samsung account. Tap “Devices,” then “Add Device,” and select “TV” from the list. Choose “Samsung” and follow the prompts to connect your TV to SmartThings.

Once connected, you should see your TV listed in the app. Make sure the TV is switched on and online, as this ensures Alexa can discover it later.

Next, open the Alexa app and tap “More” at the bottom right of the screen. Select “Skills & Games,” then search for “SmartThings.” Tap “Enable to Use,” and sign in with the same Samsung account you used in the SmartThings app. This step links your SmartThings devices, including your TV, to Alexa.

Once the accounts are linked, Alexa will automatically discover your Samsung TV. If it doesn’t, tap “Devices,” then “+,” followed by “Add Device.” Choose “TV” and “Samsung” from the list, then follow the on-screen instructions.

After discovery is complete, your TV will appear under “Devices” in the Alexa app. You can now give commands such as “Alexa, turn on the TV,” “Alexa, mute the volume,” or “Alexa, open Netflix.”

How to Connect Samsung TVs with Built-In Alexa

For newer Samsung TVs that include built-in Alexa, the process is even easier. These models don’t require an external Echo device, as Alexa is integrated directly into the TV’s operating system.

Press the Home button on your TV remote and navigate to “Settings.” Select “General,” then “Voice,” followed by “Voice Assistant.” Choose “Alexa” as your default assistant and sign in with your Amazon account details.

Once logged in, you’ll see a setup guide on-screen. Follow the instructions to link Alexa to your Amazon account. When finished, you can start using voice commands straight away through your TV’s remote control or built-in microphone.

You can say, “Alexa, what’s the weather today?” or “Alexa, play Channel 4,” and your TV will respond just like an Echo device.

How to Control Your Samsung TV with Alexa

Once connected, Alexa offers several ways to control your TV using voice commands. You can ask Alexa to turn your TV on or off, change the channel, adjust the volume, or launch specific apps.

If you have an Echo Show or Echo Studio, you can also include your TV in Alexa routines. For example, you could create a “Morning” routine that turns on your TV, switches it to BBC News, and adjusts your smart lights to full brightness.

Commands work through both your Echo device and your TV’s built-in Alexa feature if supported. For example, saying, “Alexa, pause the TV,” will stop playback in most streaming apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+.

For soundbars connected via HDMI ARC, Alexa can also adjust volume levels or switch audio modes when asked.

How to Connect Multiple Samsung TVs to Alexa

If you own more than one Samsung TV, Alexa can manage them individually. Each TV must be added to the SmartThings app and given a unique name, such as “Living Room TV” or “Bedroom TV.” Once linked to Alexa, you can control each one by name.

Say, “Alexa, turn on the Living Room TV,” or “Alexa, pause the Bedroom TV.” If you forget to specify, Alexa will default to the most recently used device.

You can also include multiple TVs in Alexa routines, such as “Alexa, turn off all TVs” when leaving the house.

Troubleshooting Connection Problems

Occasionally, Alexa may not recognise your Samsung TV or fail to respond to commands. Most issues are caused by connection errors between the SmartThings and Alexa apps.

If Alexa doesn’t find your TV, make sure both devices are on the same WiFi network. Open the SmartThings app and check that your TV appears online. If it doesn’t, restart your TV and router.

If the Alexa app still doesn’t detect your TV, disable and re-enable the SmartThings skill. Go to “Skills & Games,” select “SmartThings,” tap “Disable Skill,” then re-enable it and sign in again. This refreshes the link between your accounts.

You should also ensure your TV’s firmware is up to date. Samsung regularly releases updates that improve Alexa integration. Go to “Settings,” then “Support,” and choose “Software Update.”

If voice commands are delayed or ignored, try renaming your TV to something simpler. Alexa occasionally struggles with long or complicated names.

How to Reconnect Samsung TV to Alexa After Changing WiFi

If you’ve recently changed broadband provider or router, your TV and Alexa devices may lose their connection. To fix this, reconnect your Samsung TV to the new WiFi through the TV’s settings menu. Then open the SmartThings app, remove the old TV listing, and re-add it under the new WiFi network.

Next, go to the Alexa app, disable the SmartThings skill, and re-enable it to refresh the connection. Once done, Alexa will rediscover your TV and resume normal control.

Using Alexa Routines with Samsung TV

One of the most powerful features of connecting your Samsung TV to Alexa is the ability to include it in routines. Routines let you automate multiple actions with a single command.

For example, you can create a “Movie Night” routine that turns on the TV, lowers the lights, and opens Netflix. To set this up, open the Alexa app, go to “More,” select “Routines,” and tap “+.” Choose a trigger phrase, such as “Alexa, movie night,” and add the actions you want.

You can include TV control, lighting, sound systems, and even smart plugs. Once saved, Alexa will execute the sequence every time you say the phrase.

Privacy and Security Considerations

When connecting Alexa and Samsung Smart TVs, it’s natural to consider privacy. Both systems use encrypted communication, but you can take additional steps for peace of mind.

In your TV’s settings, go to “General,” then “Voice,” and choose “Voice Privacy Settings” to manage data storage and permissions. You can also mute Alexa’s microphone on your Echo device when not in use.

In the Alexa app, you can review and delete stored voice recordings. Simply open “Settings,” select “Alexa Privacy,” and choose “Review Voice History.”

Common Questions About Alexa and Samsung TV

A frequent question among UK users is whether Alexa can turn on the TV. The answer depends on your model. Most newer Samsung TVs support this through HDMI-CEC or direct SmartThings integration. However, older models may require a connected smart plug to power on remotely.

Another common query is whether Alexa can control volume through external devices such as soundbars. If your soundbar is connected via HDMI ARC or optical cable, Alexa can adjust volume levels using the same command you’d use for the TV.

Users also often ask whether Alexa can launch streaming apps directly. The answer is yes for most major services including Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, though some apps may still require manual navigation.

Benefits of Alexa Integration for Samsung TVs

Connecting your Samsung TV to Alexa makes your entertainment setup more convenient and future-proof. You no longer need to juggle multiple remotes or menus. Instead, your voice becomes the main control interface.

It also helps bring your devices together under one ecosystem. If you already use Alexa to control lights, heating, or security cameras, adding your TV completes the smart home experience. You can create immersive scenes, save time, and reduce clutter.

For families, Alexa control also simplifies TV use for children or elderly relatives who may find remotes confusing. It’s an accessible and user-friendly solution for all ages.

Conclusion

Learning how to connect your Samsung TV to Alexa is one of the most rewarding smart home upgrades you can make. The process only takes a few minutes but unlocks a world of convenience and control.

Whether you’re setting up a brand-new QLED model with built-in Alexa or linking an older TV through SmartThings, the result is the same: effortless, hands-free operation. From turning on your TV to starting your favourite streaming app, Alexa becomes your reliable home companion for entertainment and beyond.

By following the steps in this guide, ensuring both devices share the same network, and keeping firmware updated, you’ll enjoy seamless integration and reliable performance. Once connected, Alexa and Samsung work in harmony to create a smarter, more connected home where your voice truly takes control.