These devices, which can be controlled remotely or are able to let users know if there is a fault, are seeing growing traction in the market but, according to a new report from Which?, they might not be worth consumers paying extra, and in many cases quite a lot extra, unless manufacturers commit to keeping software updated.
According to Which? the cost of smart items is much higher than standard products, with consumers paying an average of £855 more for a smart fridge-freezer, £259 more for a smart dishwasher and £190 more for a smart tumble dryer.
However, while these devices are costing hundreds of pounds more than their conventional counterparts, in some cases they could become obsolete in as little as two years.
The problems centres on software updates, which are needed to keep the products working. According to Which?. the majority of manufacturers are talking about offering updates for “the life of the product”, but don't specify how long that actually is.
When quizzed Samsung told the organisation this was “a minimum of two years”, while Beko said a maximum of 10 years. Typically dishwashers and washing machines last for 10 years, so Samsung is certainly selling its customers short!
The issue is that in this connected world without regular updates, smart items could start to lose their functionality and their security could be compromised, and while most of these smart products will continue to function - not all will.
Which? has said that a new sales of goods directive from the EU would force manufacturers to state how long products would be updated for, but in the UK it is unclear when this will be introduced.
Which? advises customers to avoid smart appliances and stick to cheaper non-smart alternatives, at least until manufacturers are clear and upfront about how long they will support these devices.
The ball is certainly in the manufacturer's court! Deliver clarity and be transparent if you're looking to get consumers to pay out significantly more for these expensive 'smart' devices - no matter how great the technology.
