Whirlpool dives into smart appliances

Appliance manufacturer Whirlpool is launching a new partnership with IBM that is likely a sign of how the consumer product market will substantially change in the next few years.



Whirlpool is now combining connected home appliances with IBM Watson services, including cognitive analytics, to provide more personalized services to consumers.



Through IBM Watson services, including cognitive analytics, data management and protection, Whirlpool will harness real-time data and insights from appliances to drive product optimization or enhance and introduce new benefits customized and tailored to consumers' unique needs.



"IBM's cognitive analytics is a strong fit for Whirlpool," said Laurent Borne, general manager, connected appliances, Whirlpool Corp. "Saving energy and water, caring for their families through mobile efficiencies – these are the benefits we're hoping to bring to consumers. IBM's expertise in data storage, and cloud computing ensures we'll continue to bring our consumers relevant technologies in the future, as well as deliver new, innovative, and distinctive experiences for the consumer."



This type of connectivity should allow manufacturers such as Whirlpool to deliver products that are much better suited to the specific needs of consumers. In addition to being able to sell goods that are better optimized for customer needs, retailers could also benefit by partnering with smart product manufacturers to gain new insights into how consumers use products once they have bought them.



As a result, retailers could fine-tune up- and cross-selling efforts, as well as offer follow-up services and have a better idea of when a consumer who bought a smart product may be in need of a new one.