Samsung’s new Smart Monitors offer more options for the work-and-play station

Leading the pack is the m8, an all-in-one display hub supporting both streaming services and connectivity options for computers and mobile devices.

by Justin Choo

Samsung’s Smart Monitor lineup for 2022 will feature three different models: the M5, M7 and the M8.

In essence, these displays double up as IoT hubs, which make perfect sense if your life revolves around a screen be it for work or play – or both.

The 2022 lineup is still focused on a complete work-and-play experience with the ability to manage smart devices through the monitor, use a built-in camera for video calls, and access streaming services. In addition, it also provides a host of features for eye care and comfort, ranging from automatic display brightness and colour temperature adjustment to flicker-free tech and an eye saver mode.

At the core of this ecosystem is Samsung’s SmartThings Hub, powered by Tizen. This gives you access to all connected devices from your monitor, and on the M7 and M8, you have the added convenience of voice control, even when the monitor is off, thanks to an in-built Far Field Voice microphone.

The Workspace User Interface helps you connect to Windows and Mac systems and facilitates a variety of features such as Samsung DeX; Mirroring content from a smartphone (M8 feature); Apple AirPlay 2; and support for your Microsoft 365 cloud service.

As the monitors all come with in-built speakers, you can also access your Apple TV, Disney+, Netflix, Viu, YouTube and other local OTT subscriptions straight from the monitor.

A new flagship hub

Leading the line for the updated lineup is the new M8 featuring a 32” UHD display. Samsung says it’s about three-quarters slimmer than the previous models (measuring 11.4mm thick) and features a sophisticated flat-back design. The display panel meets HDR 10+ standards and can display 99 per cent of the sRGB colour gamut. In addition, the M8 offers a height-adjustable stand (HAS) and tilt functionality for more positional options.

One thing you need to note is that all monitors in the Smart Monitor range use VA panels instead of the (now) more familiar IPS panels. But on paper at least, it seems you’re not losing out in terms of viewing angles and contrast ratio, so no worries in that department.

The M8 also comes with a Full HD SlimFit Cam, which attaches magnetically to the monitor. The camera is suited for presentations and live streams thanks to its face tracking and auto-zoom capabilities, meaning that it can identify faces on screen and focus on them.

Availability

Pre-orders for the new Smart Monitor lineup is now ongoing and will end on 3 April 2022. The monitors will be available on the Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics and IT stores from 8 April 2022.

Customers will receive a complimentary Samsung Bundle Gift (worth $134) with each purchase of the new M5/M7 Smart Monitor monitors consisting of:

  • Logitech MK470 wireless slim combo keyboard and mouse (worth $79)
  • Logitech C310 Webcam (worth $55)

Customers who purchase the new M8 Smart Monitor will receive a Samsung HW-B450 2.1ch Soundbar worth $349. All gifts stated are available while stocks last.