Whirlpool Corporation becomes first appliance maker to activate Apple Watch functionality

Integration to bring expanded remote capabilities to appliance maker's suite of connected products

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Jan 08, 2018, 08:01 ET

BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Jan. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation is taking its smart home appliance capabilities to new heights with Apple Watch. Rolling out in early 2018, connected appliances from Whirlpool Corporation will allow consumers to remotely communicate with ovens, washers and dryers via Apple Watch. The collaboration marks the first time an appliance maker has connected its products with Apple Watch and its capabilities.

"Bringing intuitive technology and functionality to the appliance category that helps take the friction out of household chores is chief among our goals as we innovate for the smart home," said Brett Dibkey, Whirlpool Corporation vice president, brand and strategy in North America. "Our consumers are sophisticated and expect their appliances to work smarter, not harder. Through the new collaboration with Apple, we're increasing a consumer's capability to interact with their appliances in new and more convenient ways."

Compatibility with Apple Watch will begin with a roll out to more than 20 Whirlpool brand connected appliances in 2018.

Consumers will be able to remotely communicate with their appliances through the Whirlpool app on Apple Watch in a variety of ways*:

Oven: Consumers will be able to see the current oven status and control commands during an active cycle.
Washer: Alongside status updates, users can control the wash options of an active cycle. Whether it be a normal wash, delicates, or brights, consumers can adjust an active cycle on the fly via their Apple Watch.
Dryer: Consumers can control and detect if a cycle has started, understanding how much time remains before the cycle is complete.

This collaboration with Apple Watch is another demonstration of Whirlpool Corporation's commitment to innovation that serves a purpose. By expanding remote connectivity to home appliances, consumers can continue to personalize their appliance interactions and care for their families smarter, faster, and better.

From Jan. 9-12, CES® attendees can get up close to all Whirlpool brand innovations at booth #41725 in the Smart Home section, located at the Sands Expo Center. For more information on the company's care-centric product innovations and to join the conversation, visit ces.whirlpool.com and follow #CareSmarter.

* Appliance must be set to remote enable. WiFi & App required. Features subject to change. For details and privacy statement, visit whirlpool.com/connect.

About Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is the number one major appliance manufacturer in the world, with approximately $21 billion in annual sales, 93,000 employees and 70 manufacturing and technology research centers in 2016. The company markets Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, Jenn-Air, Indesit and other major brand names in nearly every country throughout the world. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com, or find us on Twitter at @WhirlpoolCorp.