Looking for a smart washing machine: Features, key brands, apps and other things to know – Times of India

Smart new washing machines enabled with Wi-Fi are becoming widely popular amongst several households. Let us discuss more about the technology, its uses, features to look out for and the brands that are exploring this smart space.
Smart washing machines can connect to your home Wi-Fi network just like smartphones and laptops. You can remotely set your washing machine using a phone or tablet app, or through Alexa or Google Assistant.
Here are some of the most important features which you should look out for before investing in a smart washing machine:
Automated program selection: The smart washing machine app on your phone can choose the perfect program for your daily laundry. All you need to do is fill in a few simple details.
Load Capacity: There are machines available in the market that can range from 6kg to 12kg. Best models analyze a load of laundry for efficient use of water and energy. Some machines weigh the load and regulate the amount of detergent usage.
Auto troubleshooting: Smart washing machines are capable of detecting problems and other maintenance issues that are needed for their smooth working. It notifies you instantly through the app. Most apps offer additional downloadable programs like – steam washes and drum cleaning cycles.
Machine memory: There are appliances that can remember the programs you use often and suggest them while you’re setting the wash. You can also check the amount of energy used by the washing machine in real-time.
Safety first: Wash cycle won’t start if you’ve left the door open or the machine doesn’t have water supply connectivity. Some models are equipped with an ‘add item’ feature to include dropped items in the middle of a cycle.
App support and more
Home Connect is an app developed by Bosch that can monitor appliances from several brands. It has got multiple appliances that are smart and the Wi-Fi capability has transformed from a ‘premium’ to a ‘core’ feature. Just like the other apps you can start, pause or stop wash cycles as it suits you. It also notifies you once the cycle has ended.

This app determines the perfect cycle for the load and identifies items that should be washed in different ways. You can also use the app for rinse — especially if you’re outside and want to avoid a pile of wet clothes stocked in your washing machine.
It can be monitored and controlled via Amazon Echo. It also allows remote troubleshooting by customer service with your prior permission.
Let us discuss some of the smart Wifi enabled washing machines that are available in India.
LG, Smart ThinkQ
LG smart tech has got some of the basic functionalities that a number of its contemporaries offer. These functions include controlling the wash cycles, notifications when a cycle is complete and maintenance reminders.
Some of the models come with special washing programs and can troubleshoot minor issues and can be supervised through Google Assistant or Alexa.
The standard LG 7Kg 5 star Inverter Front Load Washing Machine connects to your home Wifi and comes with various wash programs including the one where you can control the wash drum. You can troubleshoot 86 errors through the app. It is available on amazon for Rs. 33,690.
https://www.amazon.in/dp/B089XWR8LF/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_glt_fabc_60X39KX2AHNMDTNP4KXK
Samsung, SmartThings
Samsung’s SmartThing app is enabled to take full control of your washing machine once you’re done loading up. From washing program suggestions to wash cycle selection, this app is totally in sync with the appliance.

If you get a FlexWash model, both washers can be monitored through the app.
The premium standard Samsung 7 Kg Wi-Fi Enabled Inverter Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine comes with powerful AI control and hygienic cleaning. You can buy one at Amazon for Rs. 37,500
https://www.amazon.in/dp/B08ZJY91N8/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_glt_fabc_C427163G6GBRPAHFWG3F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Whirlpool, 6th Sense Live
Whirlpool’s app comes with the basic functionalities along with assisted cycles that helps you to select the right program. 6th Sense Live shows how much each cycle will cost so that you can go for cheaper options.

There is restricted availability for the connected models which can cost you more.
The Whirlpool 7.5 kg 5 Star Inverter Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine with In-Built Heater ces with 12 wash programs for different types of fabric and an auto tub clean feature. You can get this on Amazon for Rs. 25,40.
https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0824138J4/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_glt_fabc_BKHQPSKGQ8BHVRSC622F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Safety and Security tips to keep in mind
Keep the app updated: Regular updates will ensure the presence of most up-to-date features. This will also cover the recent security fixes
Download from official channels: Always use official platforms like App Store and Google Play to download the app. These platforms ensure the safety of the apps.
Data Protection: There are multiple apps that want access to your data, but it’s not necessary. You can allow or deny permissions through your app settings.