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Smart microwaves like the GE model shown here include barcode scanning technology to allow product-specific cooking instructions to be sent to the appliance.
Photo by GE
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Very cool
Induction cooktops like the Samsung model shown here use magnetic fields to transfer heat directly to specially made induction cookware.
Photo by Samsung
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Eyes on the prize
The June Oven includes an in-oven camera that allows users to track cooking progress via an app on their phones.
Photo by June
Whether you’re a master chef or a culinary novice, a new generation of smart appliances can add convenience to any kitchen.
Smart appliances typically rely only on Wi-Fi (paired with a custom smartphone application), while others can work with common smart home systems like Google Home or Amazon Alexa that learn your routines and automate tasks you assign to them, like preheating an oven or turning on a coffee maker.
Let’s take a look at a few smart appliances currently available for the high-tech home chef.
Cooktops and ranges. Induction cooktops are an innovation in and of themselves, using magnetic fields to warm the inside of specially designed cookware. Like other smart cooktops, smart induction models recognize when a pan is placed on an element and automatically turn off when a pan is removed from the cooktop. Even better: induction cooktops are 32% more energy efficient than gas cooktops and about 75% more efficient than standard electric cooktops.
Brands like Samsung and Bosch offer additional smart functions like synchronization of the cooktop with a (brand-matched) smart ventilation hood. The smart hood activates as soon as cooking begins and adapts to cooking intensity on the fly. Smart ranges can also include this function and often feature a barcode scanning system that allows you to scan store-bought foods, prompting the oven to start based on the instructions.
Smart ranges can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps or integrated home systems. A few brands offer a Wi-Fi-connected cooking thermometer to allow remote monitoring, leaving the home chef free to do other things while an app keeps an eye on cooking progress. For novice chefs, many smart ovens and cooktops have guided step-by-step recipes within the app to help control the cook time and temperature.
Countertop ovens. Manufacturers are adding smart functionality to their countertop cooking options as well. The June Oven includes an in-oven camera that allows progress to be tracked from its app. The app also provides progress monitoring with push notifications to your phone when cooking is complete.
Tovala also offers a smaller countertop oven for ready-to-cook meals. These ovens use barcode scanning technology for both Tovala meals and those from the grocery store. The Tovala app also uses push notifications to track progress.
Like Tovala, the Breville smart oven offers guided recipes and an app that directs cooking temperature and function, such as air fry or bake, as the recipe advances. The Breville smart oven also uses its on-board chip to monitor and stabilize the temperature from all sides for more efficient cooking.
Microwaves, multi-cookers and other gadgets. Other common kitchen appliances and small devices are getting smart, too. Microwaves from manufacturers like LG, Whirlpool, GE, Sharp and Toshiba include the barcode scanning function to allow product-specific cooking instructions to be sent to the appliance.
Smart kitchen scales, air fryers and pasta makers are also available to connect to your phone for guided measuring and cooking.
If you’re looking for a smart kitchen gadget that won’t break the bank, try a smart meat thermometer. These handy little devices work with an app to specify optimal cook time and temperature, and they notify the chef when the meat is ready.
As our appliances and kitchen gadgets get smarter, home chefs will have more options for convenience and functionality. Bon appétit!