Following in Amazon’s lead, Google have now begun the process of working with appliance vendors to better integrate smart appliances with Google Home.
Furthermore, they used this year’s Google I/O 2017 developers conference to reveal that they’ve already got two of the biggest appliance vendors in the world on board: LG and General Electric.
As part of the partnership, Google Home compatibility will begin rolling out this month (in the US) for LG’s premium portfolio of connected smart devices, including washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, ovens and air purifier as well as an LG air conditioners and robotic vacuums.
Dates of availability in other markets will be announced locally at the time of launch.
“Our partnership with Google demonstrates just how easy it is to smart-enable one’s home with friendly, approachable products. You don’t have to earn a degree in rocket science to design your very own smart home,” said Song Dae-hyun, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solutions Company.
“We look forward to expanding our working relationship with Google and other innovators in this dynamic market in the years to come to make the smart home a reality for all.”
GE’s Geneva smart home platform is set to gain Google Home integration along the same timeline.
“Everyone’s busy these days and our consumers are looking for simpler and more convenient ways to control their home, especially when busy in the kitchen or working around the house,” Liz VerSchure, vice president responsible for GE Appliances’ connected strategy said.
“Integrating our full suite of connected appliances with the Google Assistant makes it easier for owners to control their appliances and get on with their day.”
Partnerships with global appliances brands like like this could prove crucial as Google Home expands outside of the US market and attempts to beat Amazon’s Alexa to new markets.
