What iTunes is for Apple smartphones Kies is for Samsung devices: A tool for synchronising data between a desktop and the smartphone.

The software includes the following functions:

• Synchronisation of contacts, schedules, music, videos and photos
• Firmware updates
• Creation of new contacts
• Backing up and restoring data from the handset
• Purchasing applications from the Samsung app store
• Creating music playlists
• Subscribing to podcasts

Samsung offers a helpful tutorial on their website.