When considering AI-powered home appliances, the foremost factor has always been its enhanced efficiency, not only offering convenience in performing household chores but also contributing to energy efficiency and resource conservation. 

Robot vacuums and cordless vacuum cleaners use AI for navigation, mapping rooms, and avoiding obstacles, while other more high-tech ones even come with built-in air fresheners and HEPA filtration systems, adding an extra touch of convenience to the cleaning process.

Not only that, homeowners can also control many AI appliances remotely via smartphone apps: air purifiers with real-time air quality feedback, air conditioners with temperature control, as well as starting the washing load or preheating the oven before they get home from work.

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However, due to its technological advancement, some users may find AI-powered appliances too complicated to operate, especially those in the older generations who are less tech-savvy.

Smartphone app-operated appliances that rely on stable Internet connection might lose access to certain features or function optimally when the connection gets spotty or is down temporarily.

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Not to mention, the potential risk of software glitches or system failures that render appliances unusable until fixed.

In passing, a software bug in the Nest Learning Thermostats by Google–which can adjust the temperature based on homeowners’ daily routines, and potentially reduce energy costs–has shut down the appliance suddenly, leaving many homes without heat during winter.

Whereas, some robot vacuums with limitations in obstacle detection capabilities have run over pet waste and spread it throughout homes, resulting in more time and energy spent cleaning up instead.

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AI-powered appliances have also been lauded for their personalisation functions when it comes to learning the homeowners’ habits and preferences, tailoring their optimised functions and performances to save time and energy.

Smart refrigerators are one of the most prominent AI-enabled appliances making waves in Malaysian households, with their AI features in food management systems and energy optimisation.

Besides that, AI-guided cookers offer step-by-step instructions and multiple cooking modes, making meal preparation easier and more accessible for busy households.

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That being said, this also means the devices collect and process data about the homeowners’ habits and preferences, which raises questions about data security and privacy in the bigger picture.

While tech companies are still figuring out the kinks of these AI-powered home appliances, some notable malfunctions have made headlines over the years, causing homeowners to deliberate further on transforming their homes into one that relies heavily on AI.

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In the past, Samsung has faced backlash when it was discovered that their smart TVs could potentially record private conversations and transmit them to third parties; while certain LG smart refrigerators could be hacked and Gmail login credentials stolen.

In fact, privacy breaches have happened to some Google Home Mini devices when a hardware flaw enabled constant audio recording without user activation, and a bug allowed some Xiaomi camera users to see into other people’s homes when accessing their cameras through Google Nest Hub.

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AI-powered appliances often come with a higher price tag than their non-AI counterparts, but more often than not, their additional safety features can justify the extra cost.

Smart devices, such as AI-enabled ovens, can detect when cooking is complete or if left on too long, reducing fire risks and preventing overcooked meals. 

In terms of maintenance, AI can also identify potential issues before they escalate, potentially extending appliance lifespans and avoiding more costly repairs down the road that often require specialised knowledge.

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However, the initial price and beneficial functionalities may be offset by rapid technological advancements. 

High-end appliances already have significant markups in international markets due to import costs and luxury positioning, but homeowners must also consider the lifespan value of today’s AI-powered appliances.

Pricing for these devices changes rapidly, especially for newer models, while simultaneously, becoming outdated relatively quickly as newer versions are released, diminishing their long-term value.

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