Midea plans to invest a total of 350 million yuan on high-tech research on smart fridges, including adding 200 researchers to follow the latest demands of about 70,000 “tech-savvy” families in China, according to the Shenzhen-listed firm.
Midea released its latest range of smart fridges in southwestern Yunnan Province, which uses AI sensors to detect different items in the unit, bringing intelligent cold delivery to vary treatment of items such as tuna and beef. New highlights include a technology to reduce the pesticide residue material automatically, a key demand of Chinese families, especially those with kids.
The new-tech refrigerator costs between 6,999 yuan and 14,999 yuan.
Midea wants to attract consumers through technology and design rather than price, the company added.
Midea is the country’s No. 2 manufacturer of air conditioners, a market which has seen heated competition in recent years, including market leader Gree suing smaller rival Aux over patent disputes.
