It’s not just smartphones or electric cars that can receive new functions over time! LG was inspired by it for its new range of ThinQ UP appliances unveiled during CES.
The possibility of adding new functions through software updates is not what one would call a novelty. Of course, smartphones are entitled to it thanks to the new versions of their operating systems, this is also the case for connected televisions, electric cars, headphones and wireless earphones… simply and this, since the first ages of computing or almost!
Additional features at no additional cost
So there is nothing really surprising to see that LG was inspired by this mode of operation for the ThinQ UP range of household appliances, available in South Korea in January 2022 and which, thanks to the CES, offers an international launch (starting in March in the United States, then in other countries thereafter). The principle is as follows: ThinQ UP compatible devices can integrate new functionalities throughout their life cycle, and thus increase their added value over time.
LG provides several examples to better illustrate this novelty. Thus, the “Laundry Saver Mode” function for clothes dryers continues to spin the drum after the end of the cycle, and until the door is opened. This smoothes the laundry and prevents odors. ThinQ UP refrigerators can benefit from the “Improved Nighttime Brightness Control” function which dims their interior lighting at night so as not to dazzle the user when opening the door.
These features can be downloaded and installed directly from the companion app at no additional cost. The range therefore includes dryers and refrigerators, but also ovens, dishwashers and washing machines.