Haier InstaSwitch Smart Freezer Can Transform Into A Refrigerator

Appliance brand Haier has taken the wraps off a new smart appliance called InstaSwitch, a freezer that can transform into a refrigerator when necessary. The company showcased its new offering at IFA 2018 this week, introducing a single-door freezer model with multiple divided storage compartments that can be individually controlled based on need.

The Haier InstaSwitch is an upright model with a fairly slim stature, the lower half split among four differently-sized compartments; the upper half of the freezer features transparent shelves, and there are a few rails inside the door. According to Haier, it designed the interior to meet the needs of the average consumer.

Key among the InstaSwitch's features is a compartment that Haier calls FresherZone. Users control which mode the FreshZone is in — freezer mode, which keeps the food as cold as -14.8F and a refrigerator mode, which keeps the space at about 39F. With this, users can use the freezer for long-term food storage or as a fridge for foods like milk and leftovers.

As for the smart aspect of the appliance, Haier lets users control the temperature using its Haier U+ mobile app for Android and iOS. Users can also check the InstaSwitch's status using the app and get alerts if the power goes out or the door is left open.

The company plans to launch the freezer in Europe; it's unclear when/if it will arrive elsewhere.