Samsung soundbar owners recently faced a significant challenge when a faulty firmware update rendered several high-end models inoperable. This incident highlights the potential risks associated with automatic updates for smart home devices. While updates are generally beneficial, providing new features and security patches, they can occasionally cause unforeseen problems. This article explores how to manage firmware updates on Samsung soundbars to prevent similar issues in the future.
The Recent Samsung Soundbar Firmware Issue
In March 2025, Samsung released firmware version 1020.7 for several of its 2024-2025 soundbar models. Unfortunately, this update caused widespread problems, affecting popular models like the Q990D, Q930D, and Q800D. Users reported that their soundbars became unresponsive after the update, with no way to reset or recover the devices.
The issue was particularly problematic because:
- It affected multiple high-end models simultaneously.
- Traditional troubleshooting methods, like factory resets, were ineffective.
- The automatic update process left users with little control over when the update was applied.
Disabling Automatic Updates on Samsung Soundbars
To prevent unexpected issues from future firmware updates, you can disable automatic updates on your Samsung soundbar. Here’s how to do it using the SmartThings app:
Step 1: Open the SmartThings app on your smartphone or tablet.
Step 2: Tap the “Menu” icon, usually located at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Select the “Settings” gear icon in the top-right corner.
Step 4: Scroll down to find “Auto update devices and services” and tap on it.
Step 5: Tap “Automatic updates” and choose “Off” from the options presented.
By following these steps, you’ll prevent your soundbar from automatically downloading and installing firmware updates. This gives you more control over when and if you want to update your device.
Manual Update Process for Samsung Soundbars
With automatic updates disabled, you’ll need to update your soundbar manually when new firmware becomes available. Here’s how to do it safely:
Step 1: Check for available updates through the SmartThings app or Samsung’s official website.
Step 2: Research the new firmware version online to see if other users have reported any issues.
Step 3: If the update seems stable, download the firmware file to a USB drive.
Step 4: Insert the USB drive into your soundbar’s USB port.
Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.
Always ensure your soundbar is connected to a stable power source during the update to prevent interruptions that could cause issues.
Considerations When Disabling Automatic Updates
While disabling automatic updates can prevent unexpected issues, it’s important to consider the following:
- You may miss out on new features or important security patches.
- Manual updates require more effort and attention on your part.
- Other SmartThings-connected devices may also be affected by this setting change.
To balance these concerns, consider checking for updates manually on a regular schedule, such as once a month.
Samsung’s Response to the Firmware Issue
Following the firmware update problem, Samsung acknowledged the issue and offered to repair or replace affected soundbars free of charge. This response demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction, but it also underscores the importance of having a backup plan for your smart home devices.
Best Practices for Managing Smart Home Device Updates
To minimize the risk of update-related issues across all your smart home devices:
- Keep a record of your devices’ current firmware versions.
- Follow manufacturer forums or social media for update announcements and potential issues.
- Wait a few days after a new update is released before applying it to your devices.
- Ensure you have a recent backup of your device settings when possible.
- Consider keeping critical devices on a slightly older, stable firmware version if they’re functioning well.
Managing firmware updates on your Samsung soundbar and other smart home devices requires a balance between staying current with the latest features and avoiding potential issues. By taking control of the update process and following best practices, you can enjoy the benefits of your devices while minimizing the risk of unexpected problems.