Whirlpool-owned KitchenAid has entered the emerging smart display market, by debuting its new splash-proof countertop device, featuring a touchscreen and Google Assistant voice commands.
The apply named KitchenAid ‘Smart Display’ will take on the likes of Amazon’s Echo Show, Google’s Home Hub, Lenovo’s Smart Display and JBL’s Link View.
With a ten-inch screen and polished silver frame, the product is a stark deviation from the bold colours of KitchenAid’s trademark countertop mixers.
Like Amazon’s Echo Show – but unlike Google’s Home Hub – KitchenAid’s Smart Display features an in-built camera to make and accept video calls.
Compatible with Google Assistant, the product can also controlling other compatible smart home products (e.g. lights, smart speakers).
Boasting IPX-5 water resistance, KitchenAid’s Smart Display pledges to withstand cooking splashes and messes, and is positioned as the perfect countertop video device for home cooks.
Whilst water resistance may provide the product a leg up, Whirlpool’s close relationship with Yummly has also equipped the device with a slew of exclusive cooking content.
Users can open Yummly via their voice to view personalised recipe suggestions based on prior app use. A new Yummly Pro also service also offers video tutorials from celebrity chefs.
Whilst local pricing and availability is yet to be confirmed, KitchenAid’s Smart Display is tipped to be priced below US$300, and launch in H2Y19.
The question remains whether the exclusive content perks are enough to lure consumers away from the likes of Amazon and Google.
