LG Launches Remote-Controlled Kitchen Appliances

South Korean electronics giant LG has launched its HomeChat service, allowing consumers to communicate with home appliances when out of the house.

The range of smart kitchen appliances includes a remote-controlled washing machine, a camera-equipped fridge and a WiFi enabled oven capable of suggesting recipes.

Unveiling the range at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) earlier this year, LG's chief technology officer Skott Ahn referred to it as the "easiest and happiest collaboration between humans and machines ever".

The appliances work in conjunction with the HomeChat service that incorporates the messaging app LINE to enable users to control the settings of appliances from wherever they are.

"Today's intelligent home appliances offer a variety of useful functions but many consumers still find setting them up an extremely complicated process." said Seong-jin Jo, president and CEO of LG Electronics Home Appliance Company.

"Not only does LG HomeChat help simplify and enhance our products, they also deliver a unique user experience, adding even more value to our customers' lives."

LG's smart refrigerator includes a built-in internal camera that monitors the content and allows users to see what they might need to buy without having to open the fridge door.

The corresponding app includes a Smart Manager Freshness Tracker feature, making it possible to input different foods and drinks and alert users to upcoming expiry dates, as well as a Health Manager function that gives recipe recommendations and meal plans.

The service is currently only available in South Korea but the firm expects to launch in other markets, including the United States, in the near future.