## The Rise of Smart Appliances and the Dating Scene

The rise of smart appliances has been a significant trend in recent years, particularly among younger generations. These appliances, often characterized by their sleek design, advanced features, and connectivity, are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. This trend is not limited to the home; it’s also impacting the dating scene.

It’s not a simple yes or no answer. The answer depends on what kind of home appliance we are talking about. For example, washing machines and dryers, which are essential for everyday life, don’t carry much symbolic value. They are simply tools that make life easier. In contrast, high-end models of these appliances, like Miele or Bosch, can become status symbols, reflecting a commitment to quality and a desire to achieve a certain lifestyle.

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[2] But it’s not just personal, just under a third (32 per cent) of Gen Z also say they feel embarrassed or judged for outdated or mismatched appliances.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 the size of their fridge over its features. This preference for size is likely driven by the need for storage space, particularly for families with children. Families with children often require more storage space for food, drinks, and other necessities.

“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 help address Australian’s number one appliance gripe – high energy consumption. **Expanded Text:**

The Australian household is facing a growing energy crisis, with soaring electricity bills becoming a significant concern for residents. This has fueled a heightened demand for energy-efficient appliances that can help reduce consumption and save money.

This generation is making significant efforts to reduce their 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 environmental sustainability.

“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 that are central to our daily routines, like refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines. These appliances are not just tools; they are symbols of our lifestyle, our aspirations, and our social standing. The choice of appliances reflects our values.

[2] The study found that 75% of people believe that smart appliances are a good idea.

A. Samsung’s Appliance Usage Study Reveals Consumer Preferences
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The summary provided is a snippet 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 focuses on the results of the research, specifically highlighting the percentage of respondents who identified as “yes” to certain statements about their appliance usage.

* **Wi-Fi connection:** A Wi-Fi connection is essential 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.