Kies

Kies is a desktop software suite released by Samsung Electronics for managing Samsung mobile devices from a computer. It provides a bridge between Samsung smartphones and tablets and a PC or Mac, enabling data transfer, media management, and device maintenance.

Key functions of Kies include transferring music, photos, videos, and other files between device and computer; synchronizing contacts, calendars, and notes with PC applications; backing up and restoring device data; updating device firmware and software; and managing apps and settings on the device. It was designed to support both Windows and macOS platforms and worked with a range of Samsung devices over several generations.

History and evolution: Kies was introduced in the early 2010s as the successor to Samsung PC Studio and underwent multiple iterations, including Kies 2 and Kies 3, to accommodate newer devices and Android versions. Over time, Samsung shifted emphasis to newer tooling, and Kies gradually became less central to device management as newer software environments emerged.

Legacy and discontinuation: In the mid-to-late 2010s, Samsung began promoting Samsung Smart Switch as the primary desktop transfer and backup solution. Kies was progressively phased out, with official support waning as Smart Switch expanded to support broader device compatibility and more robust data transfer options. For current Samsung devices, Smart Switch is the recommended tool, while Kies remains of historical interest for older devices and software ecosystems.

Limitations: Compatibility varied across device models and Android versions, and some users experienced connectivity or update issues. As the industry moved toward newer tools, Kies is no longer the standard option for contemporary Samsung devices.