Smart refrigerators have touchscreen interfaces and internet connectivity to provide some additional features.
Smart refrigerators include built-in cameras, more flexible user-controlled cooling options, and the ability to interact with refrigerator features using your smartphone or tablet when you're away from home.
Some smart fridges can even connect with other smart devices in your home, such as speakers, smart TVs , and even smart dishwashers or microwaves.
Features of smart refrigerators
While specific features will vary by brand and model, here's a look at some of the things you never knew your refrigerator could do. Keep in mind, not all smart refrigerators have the same features.
Use the touchscreen interface to:
- Coordinate schedules for each family member.
- Find a recipe and have the fridge read the steps while you cook.
- Create grocery lists that sync with your smartphone in real time.
- Set expiration dates and get notifications to use food while it's fresh.
- Upload photos to display.
- Create individual profiles for each family member to send them personal notes and to-do lists.
- Use the whiteboard option to leave messages for family.
- Transparent touchscreen lets you see inside the refrigerator without opening the door.
- Stream photos from your Smart TV in another room to view in the kitchen.
A touchscreen isn't the only cool thing a smart fridge can do. You can also use your smart fridge for the following:
- Customize the temperature by drawer or compartment.
- Use the interior camera while in the store to check if you're running low on milk or eggs.
- Notifies you when water filter needs to be replaced.
- Turn the ice maker on or off from your smartphone.
- How smart kitchens can change the way you cook
More ways smart refrigerators impress
Some smart fridges offer both cold and hot water. You choose the temperature and amount of water you want to heat, and the smart fridge will send a notification to your smartphone when hot water is ready. Some even have a built-in single-cup Keurig coffee maker, which saves counter space and simplifies your morning routine.
Smart refrigerators also have built-in sensors that make it easy to open the door when your hands are full. The sensor on the door will respond to a light touch and automatically open the door for you. Some refrigerator models have sensors at the bottom of the refrigerator that respond to foot gestures to open the refrigerator door for you.
And if the door is not closed properly, sensors will react and automatically close the door to keep food fresh, while preventing cold air from escaping and increasing your electricity bill.
Common concerns about smart refrigerators
With all the features and connectivity, many people wonder if a smart refrigerator is a wise decision. Let's take a look at some common concerns when investing in a smart refrigerator.
Aren't smart refrigerators much more expensive than regular refrigerators?
Initially, their prices were quite high, but have come down significantly as more brands and models are available. Choosing a smart refrigerator over a (non-smart) bottom freezer or French door refrigerator can cost you a few hundred or even tens of thousands more. It all depends on the model and brand you choose.
Could someone hack your smart fridge and take control of it or use it against you in some nefarious way?
The important thing to remember about all internet-connected smart home technology is that it often uses the same Wi-Fi network that you have set up for your other devices to access the internet, such as your smartphone, tablet, computer, and TV streaming device. You always want your modem or router configured with the right security and complex passwords to ensure the safety of all connected devices.
You might also be wondering what could be hacked. Well, the intelligence in a smart fridge usually means a built-in computer with a screen and internet access. You can log in to services you use every day so that, for example, your calendar appears on your fridge screen. That login information could be stolen and used elsewhere (another reason why it makes sense to set a separate password for each service you use).
Everything has some security holes, so it's unclear how manufacturers will address these issues.
Is smart refrigerator repair more expensive than regular refrigerator repair?
Major parts of a refrigerator, such as the condenser, fan, compressor, etc., will have maintenance or repair costs similar to those of a regular refrigerator. After all, it is still a refrigerator.
Potential repair costs can arise if special features like hands-free door sensors, built-in coffee makers, or touchscreen interfaces break or fail. However, manufacturers design smart refrigerators based on typical household usage and the average lifespan of a refrigerator (about 15 years).
Will your smart fridge become obsolete when a new model comes out?
Wi-Fi connectivity means your smart fridge can receive software updates and new features as they are developed and released. Your fridge will become smarter and stay up to date with the latest technology over time.
Most tech companies push out software updates at night to avoid hassle for users, so the update should be almost seamless.