The “Bespoke AI Combo” (Image provided by Samsung Electronics)
SEOUL, Apr. 12 (Korea Bizwire) — Samsung Electronics’ innovative all-in-one washer-dryer, introduced in South Korea in February, has achieved a successful market entry, defying expectations that the novel form factor might face an uphill battle for consumer adoption.
The “Bespoke AI Combo,” which combines washing and drying functions into a single appliance, immediately captured consumer interest upon its launch. This early success has propelled Samsung ahead of its rival LG Electronics in the competitive washer-dryer market.
Industry observers attribute the product’s promising start to Samsung’s timely domestic release, beating LG’s similar offering to the punch.
On April 11, Samsung announced that cumulative domestic sales of the Bespoke AI Combo have surpassed 10,000 units. The integrated appliance allows users to wash and dry laundry in a single cycle without transferring clothes between separate machines.
It also offers a space-saving advantage, reducing the installation footprint by approximately 40% compared to individual washer and dryer units.
Analysts had initially predicted a prolonged adoption period due to the unfamiliar concept of a combined washer-dryer. Consumers were accustomed to perceiving washers and dryers as separate appliances, raising doubts about whether a single unit could adequately perform both functions.
Samsung Electronics said Thursday that it has sold more than 10,000 units of the “Bespoke AI Combo,” an all-in-one washer-dryer that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) technology. (Image provided by Samsung Electronics)
An industry adage warns against purchasing first-generation products due to potential defects, further complicating the market entry.
However, these concerns have diminished as the washer-dryer demonstrated performance on par with dedicated dryers. Samsung’s offering features a high-efficiency inverter heat pump, enabling it to dry a 3kg load (approximately 17 shirts) with energy consumption and drying times comparable to conventional dryers.
No critical defects or malfunctions have been reported thus far.
For space-conscious consumers, the washer-dryer has emerged as an appealing choice, leveraging its compact footprint.
Industry insiders cite Samsung’s swift product launch as a key factor driving sales momentum. While LG introduced its washer-dryer last month, entering the competitive fray, consumers only recently began receiving LG’s units.
In contrast, Samsung initiated sales and deliveries concurrently last month, allowing a month’s head start for consumer reviews and word-of-mouth to build. An industry representative noted, “How quickly a company can generate positive user reviews after launching a product significantly impacts its success.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
