i+D - November/December 2019 - 33

The Connected Kitchen - By Jessica Goldbogen Harlan

Poggenpohl clients
have shown interest
in technology that
is both easy to use
and easy to conceal.
(Image: Poggenpohl)

and refrigeration categories to integrate the products into one central
device, namely a smartphone. "Whether it be convenience features
like recipe inspiration based on what is in your refrigerator through
partners like Chefling-an AI-driven platform that simplifies the cooking
experience in connected homes-the ability to remotely preheat your
oven, or the peace of mind in being notified if your refrigerator door
was accidentally left open, we're proud to offer a variety of connected
experiences to meet individual needs," says Prescher.
Aside from smartphone integration, other technologies have been
implemented into some of Bosch's latest appliance rollouts. A new
collection of refrigerators automatically optimizes both temperature and
humidity levels to keep food fresh for longer. Advances in dishwashers
are better at drying dishes and automatically open the door at a certain
temperature to circulate fresh air.
And, while designers say that sustainability and energy efficiency aren't
something that customers are asking about while outfitting a kitchen
-though they see it as a bonus if a product is indeed eco-friendly-
Bosch has been honing the design of its dishwasher, refrigeration,
and ventilation products to become more energy efficient. As a result,
it has halved the water consumption of its appliances since 1990.
You don't need your smartphone to operate a sink from Delta Faucet
Company, but you can use your voice. Delta's VoiceIQ Technology
uses voice commands to operate a faucet. The technology doesn't just
turn the tap on and off, however; rather, it also can dispense measured
amounts of water or fill custom containers like a dog bowl or a baby
bottle. Another feature, Touch2O Technology, enables individuals to
use their elbow to operate a faucet-especially ideal for when hands
are messy or germy.

Connectivity Counts
With the ability to turn up the thermostat from our phones, or tell our
smart speakers to switch off the lights, connectivity is a convenience we
already enjoy in our homes-and it's breaking new ground in the kitchen.
"As kitchens continue to evolve, connectivity in the kitchen is becoming
more prevalent," notes Ruth Prentice of Thermador, part of BSH Home
Appliances Corporation, whose very title-connected experience manager-
indicates how important this feature is to the brand. An app called the
Thermador Connected Experience by Home Connect seamlessly integrates
the operation of the Thermador suite of appliances.
With the app, you can alter the color of the lights illuminating the inside of
your dishwasher, preheat your oven as you're heading home from work,
or brew a cup of coffee before you get out of bed. "Consumers have an
increased need for appliances that are more responsive, flexible, intuitive
to use, and that produce professional quality results," states Prentice.

One thing that's missing in today's
kitchens: a desk. Today's lifestyles
rely on uber-portable smartphones
and tablets in the kitchen.
Alison Knapp
Interior Design
created an edgy
urban retreat,
combining modern
kitchen appliances
with a timeless
color/materials
combination.
(Image: Manson Images)

The connected home is also in focus at Bosch, also part of BSH. As with
Thermador, the company believes technology is at its best "when it is
simple to use and meaningful," according to Anja Prescher, director of brand
marketing for Bosch home appliances. Like its sister company Thermador,
Bosch also uses the BSH Home Connect app for its cooking, dishwasher,

i+D - November/December 2019

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i+D - November/December 2019

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