Debuting at CES 2015, ChillHub is an open-source refrigerator and the first of its kind. Supported by design community platform FirstBuild, the smart fridge connects to wifi and has USB capabilities.
This allows it to connect to smart home systems such as Nest. Its makers hope to expand on the project by adding components like a butter softener compartment, auto-fill water pitcher and food scale/weight sensor in addition to a deodorizer, external speakers, temperature modules and voice control among others. Not oven counting the two existing USB hubs (resulting in eight USB ports total), ChillHub has a total of 55 proposed components, some of which have been prototyped.
The result of a collaboration between General Electric and Local Motors, the refrigerator represents a new class of smart home appliances.
Crowdsourced Connected Refrigerators
USB-Integrating Fridge ChillHub is on Display at CES 2015
Trend Themes
1. Open-source Home Appliances - Opportunity to create more open-source home appliances with unique features and capabilities.
2. Expansion Into Smart Home Systems - Disruptive opportunity to integrate with other smart home systems for a seamless user experience.
3. Customizable Home Appliances - Potential for customizable home appliances to meet the unique needs and preferences of consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Home Appliance Manufacturing - Manufacturers can explore the opportunity to create or expand their product lines with open-source and customizable home appliances.
2. Smart Home Technology - Smart home technology companies can integrate with ChillHub and other similar products for a more seamlessly integrated smart home experience.
3. Design Community Platforms - Design community platforms like FirstBuild can collaborate with manufacturers to create innovative and customizable home appliances.