Cannot connect or discover Bluetooth device in SmartThings

Having trouble with your SmartThings device not being recognized or being unable to connect? This guide provides step-by-step solutions to resolve SmartThings device connection issues, ensuring your smart home devices work seamlessly. Whether it’s a recognition error or a connectivity problem, follow our troubleshooting tips to get your devices up and running efficiently.

Cannot connect or discover Bluetooth device in SmartThings

Note

Available settings and menu options may vary depending on the device and software version.

Check for software updates.

Make sure that your phone and the SmartThings app on the phone are both updated to the most recent software version. If possible, it may be necessary to update the Bluetooth device.

Verify the Bluetooth device is powered on.

Make sure the Bluetooth device is powered on and Bluetooth is activated on both devices. Some devices may enter Power saving mode when the battery is low, causing Bluetooth to shut off. You may need to charge the phone or check the power and battery on the Bluetooth device.

Check the Bluetooth connection range.

The devices must be within the Bluetooth connection range (30 feet). The distance may vary depending on the environment and the device. Make sure that there are no obstacles, such as walls or electrical equipment, between the devices.

Restart both devices.

Restart both devices and close the app. Then, open the SmartThings app again on the phone.

Connect the Bluetooth device through the phone's settings.

Navigate to and open Settings. Tap Connections, and then tap Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled by tapping the switch at the top of the screen. Next, tap your desired Bluetooth device from the list, and then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the pairing. Not all Bluetooth devices appear with a logical name. Some use their MAC address to identify themselves. Once the devices are paired, the Bluetooth device will now appear in the SmartThings app, where it can be managed.

Galaxy phone displaying the Blutooth toggle turned on in the conection menu.

Try to pair the phone to a different Bluetooth device.

If the Bluetooth device fails to pair when using the phone's settings, try to pair the phone with a different Bluetooth device. If the phone does pair with a different Bluetooth device, there is an issue with the Bluetooth device. Refer to the user manual of the Bluetooth device to reset it or contact the device's manufacturer. If the phone does not pair with a different Bluetooth device, reset the phone, and then repeat the steps above.

Contact Samsung Support.

If the issue persists, the phone may need service. If you're using a Samsung phone, please visit the Support Center to request service.

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