Haier has been named as number one in the connected air conditioning market (including smart air conditioners), in a survey by Euromonitor.

According to Euromonitor’s evaluation criteria, connected air conditioners are air conditioners with built-in connectivity features to communicate with other appliances and/or other devices and/or consumers, and loT appliances that can communicate with each other. Connected air conditioners include smart air conditioners, which are automated appliances requiring little human intervention and integrating built-in connectivity, advanced capabilities in sensing, analytics, integrated with supporting online services.

This is the first authoritative, global research report conducted in 46 countries and on 30 brands in the connected air conditioner market.

Haier’s market share in this category was 23.6% in terms of volume sales in 2016. Its air-conditioners were exported to 32 countries and regions, including the United States, Italy, France, Russia and India.

Yannick Fierling, ceo, Haier Europe said: “We are proud that Haier has been benchmarked as the world’s top brand in the connected air conditioner market, becoming the first brand to be awarded this distinction. We have invested heavily in the R&D centers and especially in the rapidly growing connected air conditioner market.

“This number one ranking underlines the tremendous work that has been done to secure our position as the leading player in this sector. We will continue to win over customers by making connected air conditioners that combine innovative design with exceptional performance and life experience.”