LG to showcase the Internet of premium things at CES

Samsung has already confirmed that the Internet of Things (IoT) is going to be a huge focus on its stands at January's International CES, and now its closest direct competitor, LG, has announced that it's bringing a host of new smart and connected products to the show too.

At the moment, regardless of which ecosystem a consumer plumps for, the IoT can seem a disjointed mess with devices working independently of each other or each requiring standalone apps in order to play nicely in unison.

Samsung has proposed making a smart TV the heart of the smart home, but LG is going with something it's calling the SmartThinQ hub.

At first glance, it looks remarkably similar to the Amazon Echo or Google's OnHub router, but LG's cylindrical gadget offers more functionality than either. It can stream music wirelessly and has a color display that syncs with a smartphone so that it can be used as the de-facto control panel for any smart devices -- be they appliances like dishwashers or sensors like those for heating or security -- around the home. And it can be used to make and receive phone calls, to boot.

The other thing it offers that a number of other hubs don't is AllJoyn compatibility. Thus far, AllJoyn is the biggest supported IoT platform, backed by everyone from Sony to Electrolux meaning that the SmartThinQ Hub can control devices other than those carrying LG's badge.

"The LG SmartThinQ Hub is just another example of the open approach we believe is the future of the smart home," said Jo Seong-jin, president and CEO of the LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. "Openness and strong partnerships with industry leaders is what will make smart home technology more accessible and more convenient to consumers. And at the end of the day, that is what our smart home strategy is all about."

Alongside the SmartThinQ Hub, LG will also be taking the wraps off a new premium range of devices called ‘Signature.' The lineup will initially consist of a TV, refrigerator, washing machine and an air purifier and will all have an equal focus on quality and integrity of design as they do on delivering cutting-edge technology to discerning consumers. "By drawing on the best of LG's incredible technology and design innovation, the LG Signature brand will open up new opportunities for high-end appliances and consumer electronics," said Brian Na, executive vice president and LG's global marketing officer. "LG's leadership in both brown and white goods gives us a unique advantage that very few companies have."