Discover smart Appliances

App-controlled devices can save time, improve efficiency and even do your shopping – we’ve got the latest options

Imagine if your washing machine could call out an engineer before a minor problem become serious, or if the fridge freezer could send you a text if one of the kids has left the door open (again!). Fridge freezers like the Samsung Family Hub or the Siemens iq500, for instance, have built-in webcams and apps so you can see what groceries need picking up on the way home. Meanwhile Dyson’s 360 Eye robot vacuum can be turned on remotely so you can come home to a clean house.

Many large appliances, like Hoover’s Wizard range, now offer remote control of its kitchen devices such as washing machines, fridges, ovens, hobs and more, as well as advice on recipes, spin and wash cycles, for example, which is great if you’ve forgotten to turn on the washing machine – although it isn’t smart enough to collect the clothes and load the drum!

In America, Amazon has launched the $4.99 Dash button that connects to your Wi-fi and reorders your preferred products – washing powder, cat litter, etc – at the push of a button. Could this be the future of online shopping? Watch this space…

choose an app-controlled fridge that lets you select specific temperatures or functions like‘party mode’ for perfectly chilled drinks