Whirlpool Corporation undertakes a collaboration with Google, which will bring voice-control capabilities through the Google Assistant on Google Home to new smart home appliances launching across Whirlpool Corporation’s portfolio of brands. Google Home compatibility will be introduced in more than 20 Jenn-Air and Whirlpool brand models in 2017, starting with Jenn-Air connected wall ovens. Consumers will be able to remotely operate their appliances in a variety of ways through voice commands: for example they will be able to interact with their smart ovens and ranges to set time and temperature, check whether the oven is on or off or how much time is left, etc. Besides, consumers can talk to their microwave to check how much time is remaining and whether the appliance is on. When it comes to the refrigerator, they will be able to set different modes and temperatures and check the filter status and current temperature. And they will be able to operate their dishwashers via voice control, asking the machines to start, pause or resume a cycle, turn on different modes and check the status of a cycle or filter. In addition, when in need of support, consumers can use the Google Assistant to check their appliance serial number and internet connection, and ask for the customer support number. “We’re excited to join forces with Google Home, and to be among the companies part of its inaugural introduction to the home appliance category – said Brett Dibkey, Vice President of Integrated Business Units at Whirlpool Corporation – As we continue to pursue innovations that meet consumer needs and improve their lives, the activation of Google Home capabilities delivers on what we know is an increasing consumer desire to interact with appliances in new and unique ways”.
