Electrolux releases Intuitive Oven Interface (IOI) for microwave ovens

As Apple has so convincingly demonstrated, a simple generic device can be transformed into a killer product with a ripper interface. We’re all aware of the limitations of traditionally appalling video recorder and microwave oven interfaces so we’re very pleased to report that Electrolux is releasing a new range of microwave ovens with a new and vastly improved (at least that’s the claim) interface. Called the Intuitive Oven Interface (IOI), Electrolux claims it’s so simple, you won’t ever need to read the manual. The new ovens are part of Electrolux’s E:Line collection of kitchen appliances.

Based on three years of research, looking at “how people really use their ovens”, Electrolux’s IOI was developed by an Australian-based Electrolux team. Lars Erikson, Design Director Electrolux Home Products Asia Pacific, led the IOITM development team. He said: “The IOITM technology was borne out of extensive research which highlighted that the majority of people don’t know the difference between their oven’s different cooking functions; they stick to one or two that they “know”. “Many don’t know how to use their oven’s features; they have difficulty setting the cook time or even the clock display. The main reason is confusing symbols or hidden layers of information.”

IOI technology is aimed at making cooking easier and more enjoyable. We haven’t seen it yet, but understand that the interface: • strips away all complicated functions • has no ambiguous “international” symbols. A larger screen allows all functions to appear in full text • the user’s “programming” appears line-by-line, so they can see what they are programming at every step • enables the user to choose the cooking mode and set the clock or timer from the very first time they use the oven