In a world pushing towards innovative and eccentric technology, the possibility of “smart appliances” is becoming increasingly popular. These useful household appliances are just some of the appliances that were showcased at this year’s CES convention. Designed to make life easier while still maintaining the “cool” factor, the various appliances and gadgets listed below are far beyond promising in terms of functionality and versatility. Ultimately, these items and appliances are just a glimpse of what will truly be possible as “smart appliances” continue to evolve with new technology and concepts.
Smartphone Controlled Washers & Dryers
Earlier this year at CES, Samsung unveiled its new line of washers and dryers which aim to push the efforts towards smart appliances. Both appliances can be completely controlled from the convenience of the user’s smartphone. Individuals are able to download an app that allows them to control the usage of the appliances whether they are in their home or out running errands, clearly reducing the common issue of forgetting to turn on the washer or dryer before leaving to handle other priorities.
Whirlpool washers also feature apps which allow them to communicate with owners. Many of the available models are able to send notifications to the user regarding the level of detergent that has been used or if the daily washing has been completed yet.
Internet-savvy Refrigerators
Another inviting smart appliance from Samsung can be found in their recent release of refrigerators. The front of each refrigerator features a large LCD screen that users can connect to the internet in order to research suitable recipes. The LCD can also be used for leaving virtual post-it notes to other people in the household, which will save a few trees. Additionally, the refrigerator even keeps track of the foods that are stored inside and alerts users to when foods are spoiled.
Some models of the refrigerators are also able to offer increased versatility. Outside of the US, refrigerator models have been created which allow users to shop for groceries and other related items from the LCD screen. In contrast, some US models also exist which provide information to users about which food items are available in the refrigerator via the app and can be used during shopping trips to create a grocery list.
Blast chillers
LG has its own line of refrigerators which provide a different level of convenience. Using a compartment called the “Blast Chiller,” the appliance is able to transform a room temperature can of soda into an ice cold can of soda within a period of five minutes. The compartment repetitively shoots cold air at the can of soda while moving it gently in order to ensure that the can cools down without allowing the soda to freeze on the inside. The compartment is also able to chill wine or multiple cans of other beverages within around eight minutes.
Remote-control Vacuum Cleaners
Another popular release from LG Electronics can be found in their concept for a robotic vacuum cleaner which is way ahead of the Roomba. Individuals are able to control it from their smart phone using a related app. The vacuum cleaner features a built-in camera, which enables individuals to view the surrounding areas within the household from the app on their phone. This way, individuals can monitor the cleanliness of their home while they are away on a trip or handling other responsibilities outside of the household. The app can also be used to control where the vacuum cleaner goes throughout the house. In the meantime, the vacuum cleaner uses the built-in camera and a sensor to help it determine where items and furniture are located or memorize specific areas of the house.
These are just a few of the more pedestrian examples of new household technology. For those who can afford it, an entire home can be computerized and controlled from phones or laptops, such as shades, ovens, and even robotic butlers. The world of the Jetsons is seemingly just around the corner.
About the Author: Thomas reviews home accessories like curtain rods and hardware. In his free time, he’s working on developing iPhone apps and improving his music collection.
