AI is no longer a mere add-on, but part of a product's DNA, an "intelligent partner" for humanity.

BERLIN, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Science fiction stepped off the movie screen and into the home at this year's IFA in Berlin, one of the world's largest consumer electronics and home appliance trade fairs, which concluded on Tuesday.

Global brands, including Haier, Hisense, Bosch, and Siemens, unveiled voice-enabled appliances that respond to human commands. Washing machines that recognize stains, ovens that suggest recipes, and refrigerators that open with a knock all point to one trend: artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming household chores into tasks completed with a simple word or gesture.

INTELLIGENT PARTNER

"AI is no longer a mere add-on, but part of a product's DNA, an authentic 'intelligent partner' for humanity," Daniel Sun, chief technology officer of TCL Industries, said in an interview with Xinhua. He said AI adoption will drive advances in image recognition and natural language processing.

Among the most eye-catching innovations was NexLawn, a smart yard-care robot resembling a miniature construction vehicle. Equipped with advanced sensors and a telescopic arm, it trims grass, pulls weeds, collects leaves, and even greets pets.

"Smart devices are moving beyond basic functionality and isolated tasks," said Li Jian, chief product officer at NexLawn. "Powered by AI perception and algorithmic decision-making, machines now understand surroundings and interact in more intuitive, human-like ways."

As a result, consumers are increasingly handing over to robots repetitive, time-consuming tasks such as housework and yard maintenance. "That way, they can spend more time with loved ones, enjoying life and connecting with nature."

NEXT-GEN GADGETS

This year's exhibition also highlighted AI-powered novelties beyond traditional home appliances. A robot vacuum with a mechanical arm retrieved a phone from a narrow gap, while a tennis robot returned shots with precision. Smart glasses equipped with cameras and algorithms took photos, and offered image recognition and instant translation.

Pet care was another focus. Connectivity solutions provider uCloudlink debuted PetPhone, a wearable that allows pets to initiate calls to their owners. UCloudlink CEO Chen Chaohui said the device uses AI to learn pets' behavioral patterns and issue real-time health alerts when abnormal activity is detected.

"AI will increasingly shape the future of pet care, from health monitoring to emotion recognition and personalized services," Chen said. "Smart technology doesn't just enhance how we care for animals -- it deepens the emotional connection between people and their pets, while making daily life easier."

GROWING CONCERNS

With AI products flooding the market, industry experts also warned of risks.

A spokesperson for Chinese drone maker DJI highlighted concerns about over-automation and product uniformity, stressing that AI should enable personalized expression, not "cookie-cutter results" or "prepackaged meals." She also noted that intelligent algorithms depend heavily on high-quality hardware and reliable data.

Axel Kniehl, executive director of marketing and sales at German domestic appliances manufacturer Miele, said "AI fatigue" is setting in, with many products marketed as AI but lacking true capabilities. "Stickers are all over the place," he said.

Kniehl stressed that what matters is whether the technology improves consumers' lives, as technology must serve people, not itself.