A blueprint for ‘Smart Home Ecosystem’

Zoheb Ahmed
Chief Marketing Officer, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC.

Over the next five years, the company will invest heavily in R&D to develop eco-friendly products, supporting Bangladesh’s goal of electronics self-reliance through sustainable manufacturing and innovation.

The consumer electronics industry is undergoing a significant transformation with AI and IoT integration. Walton is localising these technologies to enhance energy efficiency and modern living. Zoheb Ahmed, Chief Marketing Officer of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, outlines the brand’s vision for pioneering Bangladesh’s smart home ecosystem.

The Daily Star (TDS): Which smart home appliance category is currently leading your sales in Bangladesh and what is driving that demand?

Zoheb Ahmed (ZA): At present, smart refrigerators, smart inverter air conditioners and smart televisions are the leading categories in Walton’s sales portfolio in Bangladesh. Demand for smart refrigerators is driven by Walton’s pioneering 8-in-1 convertible technology, AI Doctor diagnostics, and inverter systems that deliver up to 70% energy savings. Walton refrigerators have secured the ‘Best Brand Award’ for 12 consecutive years, reflecting deep consumer trust. On the other hand, Walton smart ACs are experiencing rapid growth due to the extreme shift in climate patterns in Bangladesh.

TDS: How is your brand integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT to make appliances more intuitive for Bangladeshi users?

ZA:  Walton leverages IoT for remote control and energy tracking via smartphone apps. Their proprietary “AI Doctor” uses machine learning to predict faults before breakdowns occur, while offline voice control in Bangla and English ensures accessibility for all users. Developed by their in-house R&I team, these features make smart appliances more intuitive, reliable, and user-friendly.

TDS: With rising electricity costs, how do your smart appliances specifically help consumers reduce their monthly utility bills?

ZA: To combat rising electricity tariffs in Bangladesh, Walton’s smart appliances utilise advanced inverter technology and intelligent sensors to reduce energy consumption by up to 70%. These features optimise performance based on usage patterns, significantly lowering monthly utility bills for households.

TDS: What maintenance tips would you give users to keep smart ACs, refrigerators, and TVs performing well for a long time?

ZA: To maximise appliance lifespan, clean AC filters quarterly, use “Self-Clean” monthly, and schedule professional servicing twice a year. For refrigerators, avoid overloading and keep condenser coils clean to ensure airflow. Protect TVs by keeping them dust-free, lowering brightness to preserve the backlight, and regularly updating software. Consistent maintenance across all devices ensures peak performance and long-term durability.

TDS: What are the key challenges hindering the industry’s wider adoption in Bangladesh?

ZA: Despite rapid growth, the smart appliance industry in Bangladesh faces several challenges. These include: perceived high initial cost, unreliable electricity infrastructure, limited rural broadband for full IoT benefits, and awareness gaps about long-term savings. Walton addresses these through easy EMI, solar-hybrid options, and massive consumer education campaigns.