Whirlpool talks food intelligence

Whirlpool Corporation is partnering with Innit to devise a new series of connected cooking appliances, starting with Jenn-Air brand WiFi-connected ovens.

The new appliances will be connected via the Innit platform, offering automated cooking and digital recipes that can be based on personal dietary and taste preferences.

The step-by-step preparation instructions are aimed at helping more consumers cook at home, providing chef-level functionality that helps take the guesswork out of cooking.

"Whirlpool Corporation has taken a leading role in introducing innovative connected appliances, and the Innit platform adds powerful and intuitive ways to connect food to the kitchen," said Brett Dibkey, VP integrated business units at Whirlpool Corporation.

"Jenn-Air and Innit are delivering a new layer of intelligence to the kitchen, helping consumers achieve breakthrough levels of convenience, flavor, and healthy cooking," said Steve Brown, general manager of Jenn-Air. "We're confident that Jenn-Air consumers, as early adopters, will embrace this technology and the added precision it brings to cooking and entertaining."

Though live demos and cooking classes are already available at the Pirch retail showroom in New York City, Whirlpool and Innit will begin consumer trials in late 2016, with Jenn-Air connected wall ovens scheduled for release in early 2017.

"Nearly every aspect of our lives has benefitted from digital innovation, but food and the kitchen are still largely analog.  Together, Innit and Whirlpool Corporation are bringing forward a new class of technology to empower people through food, while maximizing simplicity and enjoyment," said Eugenio Minvielle, founder and president, Innit. "By unlocking information within food, Innit can help consumers get more out of their Jenn-Air appliances, and reduce dinnertime stress."