Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JULY 2017 24 oven and light, turn on/off Sabbath mode, and set vacation modes. • Consumers can talk to their microwave to check how much time is remaining and whether the appliance is on. When it comes to the refrigerator, consumers will be able to set different modes and temperatures and check the filter status and current temperature. • Consumers will be able to operate their dishwashers via voice control, asking the machines to start, pause or resume a cycle, turn on different modes, and check the status of a cycle or filter. • When in need of support, consumers can use the Google Assistant to check their appliance serial number and internet connection, and ask for the customer support number. This collaboration with Google Home is another demonstra- tion of the ways in which Whirlpool Corporation is delivering next-generation innovations that enable consumers to enjoy a purposeful smart home ecosystem. [1] Requires Wi-Fi and account creation. App features and functionality subject to change. Subject to terms of service available at: www.whirlpool.com/connect. Data rates may apply. BLUESTAR ® INTRODUCES NEW INDUCTION COOKTOP, FEATURING UNMATCHED POWER AND PERFORMANCE FOR RESTAURANT-QUALITY RESULTS AT HOME Chef inspired induction cooking technology, designed for the culinary enthusiast BlueStar ® , manufacturer of high-performance appliances for the home – and a trailblazer in color and customization – is unveiling a new induction cooktop, featuring advanced cooking technology with maximum power and precision for restaurant- quality results at home. "Our new cooktop is the closest you can get to a professional experience in induction cooking," says BlueStar ® President Eliza Sheffield. "From our platinum gas range to our new chef inspired refrigeration, and now precise and powerful induction, BlueStar continues to set new standards in performance and customization. We want to empower cooks with the tools they need for a truly bespoke cooking experience." The BlueStar ® 36" induction cooktop combines the sleek design and efficient performance of induction with the precise control and power that is the hallmark of the BlueStar ® brand. The new induction cooktop offers the most powerful single burner in the industry, thanks to the exclusive power boost feature: a 5,500 watt burner can bring one gallon of water in a large pot to a rolling boil in only three and half minutes. The seamless two burner bridging technology is perfect for grilling or searing with the duel zone plancha /grill, sold separately. The unit offers exceptional temperature control with 12 cooking settings. BlueStar's induction cooktop features smart power manage- ment that automatically calculates and disperses the maximum amount of power across the number of burners in use. The home chef also has the ability to kick-start the cooking process on all cooking zones, boosting the power immediately for no-wait cooking and optimal flexibility. There are two levels of even, low temperatures: a true simmer burner at 200 degrees, and a warming burner at 150 degrees. Foods like sauces and melted chocolate can be held at a simmer for hours without scorching. "It provides the kind of evenness and accuracy that makes a meaningful difference in the end result," said Sheffield. Robust safety features include a "knob lock" and pan detection technology so the unit will not start unless a pan is on a burner. No heat is wasted during cooking because energy is supplied only to the cooking receptacle. The simple, yet stunning design offers unmatched custom- ization in the category, with the opportunity to personalize the unit with 190 colored knob options and 10 different trims, including brass, copper, and stainless steel. The unit comes standard with sleek, easy-to-use stainless steel knobs with "natural white" display lighting, unlike the harsh red glare typical in other units. Visit www.bluestarcooking.com for more information. I N D U S T R Y [ N E W S ] continued on page 28

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