Whirlpool voice-controlled appliances will work with Alexa

Whirlpool has collaborated with Amazon to launch several new voice-controlled appliances that are set to be unveiled at CES consumer electronics show in Las Vegas (January 5-8).

The smart appliances will launch across the brands portfolio in early 2017 and will feature voice capabilities through Alexa-enabled devices, such as the Amazon Echo and Echo Dot.

Using voice commands, users will be able to make changes to appliances such as adjusting the temperature of the oven or changing a wash cycle. Whirlpool said the aim is to simplify and improve consumers’ busy lives.

“As we continue to explore innovative solutions, we always want to do so with consumers’ habits and needs in mind,” said Brett Dibkey, vice-president of Integrated Business Units at Whirlpool Corporation. “As demand for a smart-home ecosystem grows, consumers are looking for a wide variety of new ways to interact with their appliances, whether it’s on-product, digitally with an app, or through voice control.”

Director of Amazon Alexa, Rob Pulciani, said: “Now any customer with a far-field Alexa enabled device can control most smart appliances made by Whirlpool Corporation, simply using their voice. Our customers will love the added convenience of hands-free controls while they’re prepping for dinner or finishing that last load of laundry.”

The news expands on Whirlpool’s relationship with Amazon, which currently features Amazon Dash Replenishment in laundry and kitchen products. ‘Early this year’, Whirlpool plans to expand this capability to more appliance models across its portfolio range.

“We’re eager to continue working with Amazon as it is a leader in e-commerce and automated replenishment, as well as voice control,” Dibkey added. “The capabilities this relationship brings to our portfolio of appliances reinforces Whirlpool Corporation’s commitment to purposeful innovation.”

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