Kitchen Gadgets: Thermomix, Rice Cookers and Smart Ovens — 2026-09-08
Bosch has repositioned its Cookit multicooker with new pricing tiers and AI features, directly challenging Vorwerk’s Thermomix TM7 in the German market. Meanwhile, Panasonic launched its X9E rice cooker series in Japan with a nationwide tasting tour, and Xiaomi expanded its IH rice cooker lineup in China.
Kitchen Gadgets: Thermomix, Rice Cookers and Smart Ovens — 2026-09-08
Top developments
Bosch Cookit Relaunches with New Packages and Lower Price
On September 6, 2026, Bosch announced a significant update to its Cookit multicooker, offering the device in three new configuration packages. The move includes a price reduction for entry-level models and the addition of new smart functions, likely aimed at countering the strong market presence of the Thermomix TM7. This strategic pivot highlights the intensifying competition in the German premium kitchen appliance sector, where Bosch is leveraging software features to differentiate its hardware
Panasonic X9E Rice Cooker Series Launches Nationwide in Japan
Panasonic officially released its new "X9E" series of variable-pressure IH rice cookers in early September 2026, featuring updated "W Odori" (W Dance) cooking technology. To promote the launch, the company initiated a tasting event series across five major Japanese cities starting September 4, allowing consumers to compare the new models against previous generations. This aggressive marketing push underscores the importance of the high-end rice cooker segment in Japan, where brand loyalty to Panasonic, Tiger, and Zojirushi remains fierce
IMTEST Publishes Comparative Review of Thermomix TM7 and Alternatives
On September 7, 2026, German consumer magazine IMTEST published a comprehensive test of seven cooking machines, including the Thermomix TM7 and various budget alternatives. The review highlighted that while the Thermomix TM7 remains the benchmark for functionality and design, several cheaper competitors offer superior value for specific cooking tasks. This analysis is critical for consumers weighing the high upfront cost of Vorwerk devices against more affordable multicookers from brands like Lidl and WMF
Xiaomi Expands IH Rice Cooker Lineup in China
Xiaomi launched a new smart rice cooker model in late August 2026, which became widely available in early September, featuring a titanium composite inner pot and wrap-around 3D IH heating. The device offers nine cooking modes and is positioned as a high-tech, affordable alternative to traditional rice cookers in the Chinese market. This release reinforces Xiaomi’s strategy of integrating IoT capabilities and advanced heating technologies into everyday kitchen appliances
Local view
In Germany, IMTEST emphasizes that the Bosch Cookit's new pricing structure makes it a more viable competitor to the Thermomix, particularly for users who prioritize app connectivity and AI-assisted recipes over the extensive community recipe base of Vorwerk. In Japan, local tech blog Shitakoe reports that Panasonic’s hands-on tasting events are effectively driving consumer interest in the X9E series, with attendees praising the improved texture of the cooked rice compared to older models. Chinese platform Smzdm (What's Worth Buying) has seen a surge in user discussions regarding IH heating technology, with recent posts highlighting the importance of inner pot material (such as titanium or ceramic) in determining the final taste of the rice, reflecting a growing sophistication among Chinese consumers.
Context & numbers
The global induction cooktop market continues to grow, driven by regulatory pressures in North America and Europe that restrict gas appliances. Induction technology is noted for transferring up to 90% of energy to food, compared to 40% for gas cooktops, making it a key focus for energy-efficient kitchen designs. In China, Xiaomi’s new rice cooker models leverage 3D IH heating to compete with established brands like Midea and Supor, focusing on speed and precision cooking.
On the radar
- IFA Berlin 2026: With nearly half of the exhibitors expected to be Chinese companies, IFA Berlin is set to showcase a wave of AI-driven home appliances from Asia, potentially impacting Western market strategies for brands like Bosch and Miele.
- Panasonic Tasting Tour: The X9E rice cooker tasting events will continue through October in five Japanese cities, offering further insights into consumer reception of the new "W Odori" technology.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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