Countertop Turns Everyday Appliances into Cool Gadgets

The kitchen is one of the top places we want to see more high-tech help. There have been a few innovations, such as the WeMo-enabled crockpot, Dacor’s Discovery iQ oven, and other cool gadgets. However, you don’t need to replace everything in the kitchen to make it more convenient. Orange Chef wants to smarten up your existing kitchen with the Countertop.

The Countertop isn’t like your typical countertop. This is actually a smart kitchen system that connects existing appliances to the web, making them into really cool gadgets. It works in conjunction with adapters for your appliances, as well as an iOS app, so that the system can provide personalized snack and meal recommendations, cooking instructions, and more.

Of course, you should know that the Countertop isn’t going to work with your old toaster. Right now, it works with specific appliances, such as Vitamix blenders and Crock-Pot slow cookers. Just attach the applicable adapter, place your appliance of choice under the heat-resistant Countertop, and it will suggest recipes and even deliver step-by-step cooking instructions. Because the adapter is attached to each device, it can actually weigh ingredients, so you don’t even need to measure anything.

The Countertop also works with the Jawbone UP. Of course, this isn’t an actual kitchen appliance, but it’s definitely a main ingredient in this recipe. Adding the Jawbone UP into the equation allows the Countertop to keep track of workouts, activity and sleep patterns. That way, it can suggest healthy meals based on your personal needs.

The aforementioned Countertop iOS app can sync with fitness trackers and Apple Health. It’s also expected to be part of the Apple Watch, allowing users to cook with two hands. (Can you imagine that?) Orange Chef even plans to roll out additional adapters for commonly used kitchen appliances and other cool gadgets in the near future.

Currently, Orange Chef is taking pre-orders for the Countertop for $99.95. Once the product starts shipping this fall, that price is expected to go up to $199.95. During the pre-order period, the Vitamix and Crock-Pot adapters will be $9.95 and $4.95, respectively. That price will also go up to $19.95 and $9.95, once orders start shipping.