Beko has announced FlexiStart, a new feature within its HomeWhiz connected appliance platform designed to help households reduce electricity costs by running appliances when energy prices are lower.

Scheduled for launch in January 2027, FlexiStart will initially support washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers.

The technology uses electricity tariff information to identify cheaper operating periods. Consumers can confirm the suggested time through the HomeWhiz app, allowing appliances to run their selected programmes when electricity costs are lower.

Where Beko has agreements with energy providers, tariff information will automatically feed into the app. Other users will be able to enter their own cheaper electricity periods.

The initial rollout will include energy provider partnerships in Germany and Türkiye, following an earlier pilot in the Netherlands.

Beko also plans to extend the technology to refrigerators and air conditioners later in 2027.

Trade perspective

The development highlights how connected appliances are moving beyond remote control and monitoring.

Energy management could become another selling point for retailers, particularly as consumers look for ways to manage household running costs. It also gives manufacturers another opportunity to differentiate their connected appliance ranges.