This is a shift in consumer behaviour. The rise of the “connected home” is changing how people use and interact with their appliances, and this trend is influencing dating habits. In the latest Samsung Australia campaign, the focus is on the “connected home,” a shift from the traditional “tech” focus.
A. The Evolution of Home Appliances
B.
The rise of home appliances has been a gradual process, with its roots in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The first home appliances were simple, basic tools designed to make life easier. These included things like the washing machine, the vacuum cleaner, and the refrigerator. These early appliances were often expensive and not readily available to the average person.
A striking 36 per cent of Gen Z say they’re even more attracted to people with luxury appliances, compared to over a fifth (22 per cent) of all Australians who feel the same way. [2] But it’s not just personal, just under a third (32 per cent) of Gen Z also say they feel embarrassed or judged for outdated or mismatched appliances. [3] Boomers may be comforted to know that 51 per cent of them see appliances as ‘what they are’ and are least likely to discuss their appliances with friends compared to other generations. [4] Having the latest technology or the coolest gadgets has been a leading trend for decades but hearing a friend rejoice over the latest fridge or vacuum hasn’t been as common, until now.
This highlights the importance of the appliance in shaping social interactions and perceptions of status. The study also revealed that Australians are more likely to prioritize their fridge’s energy efficiency than other appliance features. This preference for energy efficiency is likely driven by a growing awareness of environmental concerns and a desire to save money.
“Our Samsung Australians @ Home Report: 2024 Smart Living Edition reveals Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge in redefining what it means to own and showcase home appliances,” said Jeremy Senior, Vice President – Consumer Electronics, Samsung Electronics Australia. “These insights demonstrate a clear generational divide. While energy savings are crucial for everyone, younger generations prioritise sleek design and smart AI functionality.” Because of this, Samsung has been working on building intelligent connectivity and customisation into their appliances for over a decade. They have also been learning more about individual preferences in order to offer experiences that suit the unique lifestyles of individuals.
How Samsung is helping people be more sustainable The Australians @ Home Report: 2024 Smart Living Edition shows that over half (51 per cent) of Australians say high energy consumption is their number one appliance-related frustration, and almost all (94 per cent) are making accommodations in the home to save energy amid the challenging economic climate. [7] Samsung’s SmartThings app bridges the gap between aesthetics and practicality by seamlessly connecting users to their appliances and allowing appliances to interact with each other. The app, alongside features like SmartThings Energy [9], helps balance style and efficiency and makes it easier for people to commit to sustainable practices in their modern homes.
Appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke AI Heat Pump combo can also help address Australian’s number one appliance gripe – high energy consumption. By consuming up to 60 per cent less energy with AI Energy Mode during the wash cycle [10], and 20 per cent less during the dry cycle when compared to using the same cycle without AI Energy Mode, the range offers a smart, efficient choice for those looking to maximise potential savings on energy costs while maintaining a stylish and efficient home. [11] While all generations are looking to reduce their carbon footprint, boomers, according to the report findings, are the most energy-conscious generation.
This generation is making significant efforts to reduce energy consumption. They are actively engaging in practices that minimize energy waste, such as turning off devices, using LED light bulbs, and only using air conditioning or heating when necessary. **Detailed Text:**
This generation, often referred to as Generation Z or Zoomers, is demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
“While almost half of Australians (47 per cent) have told Samsung that AI-enabled features are a priority when it comes to new appliances, it’s Gen Z Australians who are really pushing the boundaries of what’s expected from their home appliances.” [13] “This generation can see the potential for appliances with AI technologies to empower them to take control of things that matter most to them, such as energy management and food waste reduction. Samsung is invigorated by Australian consumers’ appetite for stylish, connected and customisable appliances, and looks forward to continuing to provide solutions that can reshape industry standards”, Jeremy Senior says.
This is particularly true for kitchen appliances, which are often seen as the heart of the home. The selection of kitchen appliances reflects our lifestyle, our values, and our aspirations. The rise of smart home technology has significantly impacted the way we use and interact with our kitchen appliances.
[2] The study found that 70% of respondents were unaware of the environmental impact of their appliances. 70% of respondents were unaware of the energy efficiency of their appliances. [3] The study also found that 70% of respondents were unaware of the potential for appliance upgrades.
The summary provided is a brief excerpt from a research study conducted by Nature, B3A | Actions | Thinking about appliances, commissioned by Samsung. The study aimed to understand consumer behavior and preferences regarding appliances. The summary highlights the findings of the research, specifically focusing on the “5” category.
* **Wi-Fi connection:** A Wi-Fi connection is required for the SmartThings system to function. * **Samsung Account:** A Samsung Account is required for certain features and functionalities. * **SmartThings app:** All devices need to be registered in the SmartThings app to monitor energy consumption.
[12] Refers to research commissioned by Samsung and conducted by Nature, B3A | Actions | Thinking about appliances, which of the following apply to you? | YES Base: n = 164 -348.