Jordan O'BrienLG’s new SmartThinQ sensor promises to convert many traditional home appliances into ones that connect with the Internet of Things.
The company made the announcement at IFA 2015 in Berlin, with the company also revealing its ‘Smart Lightwave Oven’ and ‘Smart Air Conditioner’ which are compatible with the AllJoyn IoT platform.
The SmartThinQ Sensor is a circular device that can be attached to existing home appliances such as washing machines or refrigerators, to sense feedback such as vibration and temperature and communicate those readings to the SmartThinQ app on users’ smartphones.
For example, attaching the sensor to a normal washing machine door transforms the washer into a smart appliance that informs the user when the laundry cycle is complete.
Attach the SmartThingQ Sensor to a refrigerator and it will send a notification to a connected smartphone when a particular food item is about to expire.
The sensor will also keep track of how many times the door is opened even when the user is not home.
Connecting the SmartThingQ Sensor to an air conditioner or other appliances will allow users to control the appliances remotely through the SmartThinQ app.
The AllJoyn compatible Smart Lightwave Oven from LG allows users to download, update and share recipes with friends and relatives via their mobile devices.
The Smart Lightwave Oven is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing homeowners to use their smartphones to set the cooking mode, temperature and cooking time for a given dish.
It can even perform self-diagnosis and help find solutions and repair information online through an LG service centre.
LG’s Smart Air Conditioner can inform owners when to replace the air filter, it can also be controlled remotely from a smartphone.
“Adoption of smart home appliances has been slow because of the perception that the technology is not easily accessible,” says Jo Seong-jin, president and CEO of the LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company.
“LG is committed to continuing its leadership in the smart home market with innovations such as LG SmartThingQ, which provides real-life benefits and offers new lifestyle conveniences through technology that is easy to use.”
LG’s smart appliances and more will be on display at LG’s IFA booth in Hall 18 of Messe Berlin from September 4-9.