## The Rise of Smart Appliances and the Dating Scene: A Shared Appeal
The world of smart appliances is experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly among younger generations. This trend is not just about convenience; it’s about a desire for a seamless, connected, and personalized experience. This desire for a connected lifestyle extends beyond the home, influencing how people interact with technology and each other.
This question is particularly relevant in the modern world, where the rise of social media and online shopping has made it easier than ever to compare and contrast our possessions. This has led to a new kind of consumerism, one that is driven by status and aspiration. The rise of home appliances as status symbols is not a recent phenomenon.
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[2] But it’s not just personal, just under a third (32 per cent) of Gen Z also say they feel embarrassed or judged for outdated or mismatched appliances.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 suggests that the appliance is becoming a status symbol, particularly for younger generations. The study also found that Australians are willing to spend more on appliances than their counterparts in other countries. This is particularly true for those in the market for a new fridge.
“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 also more conscious of their carbon footprint and actively seeks to reduce it. They are more likely to use public transport, cycle, walk, or carpool (67 per cent) and are more likely to choose sustainable products and services (58 per cent). This generation is also more environmentally aware and actively seeks to protect the environment.
“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 the appliances we choose for our kitchens. The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and the appliances we select for it become a reflection of our personalities, lifestyles, and values. The choice of kitchen appliances is influenced by a variety of factors, including personal preferences, budget constraints, and the overall design of the kitchen.
[1] Refers to research commissioned by Samsung and conducted by Nature, B3A | Actions | Thinking about appliances, which oft the following apply to you? | YES Base: n = 164 -348. [2] 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. [3] 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. [4] 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.
The summary provided is a research study conducted by Samsung and published in Nature. The study aimed to understand consumer behavior and preferences regarding appliances. It surveyed a large sample of individuals, asking them about their appliance usage, habits, and perceptions. The study found that a significant portion of consumers are willing to pay a premium for appliances that offer advanced features and functionalities. This suggests that consumers are increasingly valuing convenience, efficiency, and technological advancements in their appliances.
* **Wi-Fi connection:** A Wi-Fi connection is necessary 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.