We still think somehow that the phrase the “Internet of things” is just a concept, not realizing that this concept is already in the here and now. Try explaining the concept to China-based consumer electronics outfit Haier and they’ll actually show you what the concept means – most probably through their new Haier AQUA smart refrigerator tentatively called the “DIGI Type 1”.





This refrigerator is like many other refrigeration products out there, but for the two 1080p full HD LCD screens on both the two doors of the said fridge. The screens will act as the interface for the “smart” element of the fridge, which will be powered by Android OS and able to connect to wifi connectivity. Yes, you heard us right — although there is no information yet on what version of android we will be seeing on the system.

Haier is planning to equip the fridge with a range of apps that will help you get the most out of your refrigerator – although we don’t have any information as yet to see how those apps will function or even look like. The challenge really is for app developers to start thinking of these “internet of things” processes and develop apps for them.

There is no pricing yet available for the Haier AQUA DIGI Type 1, but the outfit is planning to launch the product in Japan in autumn of 2015, which is just a few months from now. That means we won’t have to wait long to see how this device will finally look like.

VIA: Gpad