IFA 2024 celebrated its 100th anniversary in Berlin with over 215,000 visitors from 138 countries attending the show – Sally Smith reveals her 10 highlights from the 5-day event.
IFA 2024, one of the world’s largest trade events for home appliances and tech, attracted over 1,800 exhibitors from around the world across the 5-day event from 6th - 10th September at Messe Berlin. There were a host of truly forward-thinking innovations in terms of appliances on show focusing on increased energy efficiency and the power of Artificial Intelligence, that are all soon to be launched in the UK.
"Our new range has been designed to meet the growing demand for premium experiences in today’s market and to make it easier for consumers to experiment with new recipes and cook healthier, more delicious food. Under our premium appliance brand, AEG, we unveiled our largest kitchen range to date, incorporating some of our smartest technology focusing on AI-assisted cooking on all our appliances including ovens, hobs, hoods, cold storage and dishwashers," says Chris George, commercial lead UK & head of trade operations CA West Europe at Electrolux Group.
Asko showcased its new laundry collection that will be released in the UK in 2025. Jessica Rhodes, product & marketing manager at Asko, says: "Our new laundry range remains faithful to our core values, and prioritises hygiene and sustainability. Our forest-inspired stand illuminated by large screens to reflect our commitment to sustainability and the products' eco-friendly credentials went down really well with visitors. Our latest washing machine features Steel Seal technology, eliminating the need for a rubber door seal to improve hygiene."
"Both our stands received excellent feedback from visitors, particularly in the Bosch House where we showcased our new Series 6 and Series 8 washing machines that help save more energy, water, electricity and detergent, moving us significantly forward from a sustainability perspective," explains Gunjan Srivastava, BSH UK & Ireland. "Our new microplastic filter can be connected to any washing machine or washer-dryer and helps reduce microplastics in wastewater, with up to 97% filtration efficiency and the most flexible installation options on the market."
The use of AI, innovative technologies and connectivity of appliances was a key focus for Siemens this year. The theme of the stand was the ‘Intelligent Kitchen Series’ focusing on their latest innovations showcasing in particular the iQ700 oven that features dish recognition using the advanced functionality of AI and a built-in camera. The oven can automatically recognise up to 80 dishes so the user just needs to place the dish in the oven, close the door and let the oven do the rest to set the optimal cooking method.
"IFA 2024 was the perfect stage to present our vision of an extended, connected and interconnected ecosystem that includes partnerships with energy suppliers and initiatives that we think can lead the international industry," says Gianpiero Morbello, head of brand strategy and IoT Haier Europe.
Haier’s ID Ultimate Oven Series includes ovens, built-in combi microwaves, and connected induction cooktops. "All the appliances in this series are characterised by a minimal design and exclusive BionicookTM technologies. These advanced appliances were the stars of the cooking area on the stand, showcasing the advanced functionality of our induction cooktops and the steam cooking technologies of the new oven range," adds Morbello.
LG Electronics unveiled its state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive VX laundry series this year. "The washing machine features a new drum motion that helps deliver clean laundry while minimising the energy consumption. The washer intelligently adjusts the motor’s RPM in real-time, contributing to the appliance’s impressive A-55% energy rating," says David Palmer, LG senior product specialist. "There were plenty of hands-on sessions on the stand which was met with a very positive response from visitors and media alike," Palmer adds.
Miele introduced several key products at this year's show with a completely redesigned generation of washing machines and tumble dryers, the W2 and T2 Nova Edition. "These products embody our dedication to innovation, sustainability and product performance," explains Helen Pyman, marketing director for Miele GB. "The new models come with several stand-out features including the InfinityCare honeycomb drum, the ribless design reduces fabric wear during washing cycles, promoting longevity and care for delicate items."
"As the world, and Europe in particular, is prioritising smarter, more efficient home appliances, we’re were thrilled to launch our bespoke AI washer dryer laundry combo in Europe," says Moohyung Lee, EVP & head of the customer experience team for the digital appliances business at Samsung Electronics. "Our latest washer dryer can understand complicated and casual conversations, allowing consumers to give complex commands. Users can naturally approach the washing machine, and say ‘Open the washing machine door’, and then get a prompt response or see the action carried out. When an error is displayed on the LCD display, users can ask directly what this means, instead of having to look through the user manual or search on their phones."
"We showcased our latest innovations in both audio and visual technology, along with our latest kitchen and laundry portfolio. Visitors had the chance to see and interact with the Hi8 series; the hood in hob, AI assisted oven with air fry programme and the Hi8 dishwasher. Our newest dishwasher offers a remarkable 20% reduction in energy consumption, with a Smart Dosing feature that saves time, detergent and energy by automatically releasing the right amount of detergent for each program," explains Matthew Glynn, market product marketing manager Hisense UK.
