AI in air purifiers… breakthrough technology or marketing gimmick?

Behind the technological facade, consumers face a confusing matrix: what is real AI, and what is just an over-hyped smart sensor?

In an era where every home appliance is labeled “smart,” air purifiers are no exception. Many brands have launched AI-integrated products, promising to bring a convenient experience with many modern features. However, does the quality of high-tech air purifiers meet users’ expectations?

AI air purifiers often come with useful features.

Conceptual confusion

According to a survey by Science & Life reporter/Knowledge & Life Newspaper , currently, some high-end models such as LG PuriCare Aero Booster PET or Coway Airmega Icon, Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier have truly applied AI in the true sense: the machine remembers when users usually turn on sleep mode, automatically increases filtration during peak hours, and even distinguishes houses with pets to adjust the appropriate airflow.

Ms. Vu Van Anh, a user in Da Nang , shared: "I used the Coway Airmega 250 air purifier and saw the difference clearly. The machine automatically speeds up when I cook and slows down when I go to sleep. No need to manually adjust, very convenient."

Likewise, the LG PuriCare PET is a prime example of true AI. It not only detects air quality in real time, but also analyzes user behavior to optimize performance. Pet Mode helps to pick up pet hair and odors nearly 77% faster than normal mode. Users can monitor everything from fine dust concentration to machine operation history via the LG ThinQ app.

Expert Nguyen Van Hung commented that AI integration is often only optimized for machines with large capacity. "With a basic capacity of about 30-45W (200-250 cubic meters/hour) for a room of about 25 square meters, AI integration is wasteful. This makes the price increase." Therefore, AI air purifier products are often optimized for spaces of 50 square meters or more, with prices pushed up from 10 to 35 million VND.

Air purification for small spaces doesn't require expensive AI functions.

However, according to Mr. Nguyen Van Hung, a technical expert at the Ho Chi Minh City Environmental Technology Center, "Most products on the market today only stop at the level of smart sensors. They measure dust concentrations, VOCs, humidity... and then turn on/off the corresponding filter mode. That is not AI in the technical definition."

The confusion between concepts makes it easy for consumers to get caught up in the marketing vortex. Some products like the Samsung AX60R5080WD or Panasonic F-PXJ30A are advertised as “AI air purifiers,” but in reality they only use PM2.5 sensors to adjust fan speed. These products do not have the ability to learn, remember habits, or connect to smart home ecosystems.

High price barrier

There is no denying that AI brings convenience, but it comes at a price. Machines with real AI are usually in the 10-25 million VND segment. In addition to the initial purchase cost, users also have to face higher filter replacement costs. A HEPA filter for LG PuriCare can cost up to 1.5 million VND, while the popular line is only about 500-700 thousand.

Mr. Tran Minh Quan, an expert in the home appliance market, commented: "AI in air purifiers is an inevitable trend, but not everyone needs it. For small rooms and simple needs, non-AI machines still meet the needs well. The problem is that consumers need to understand clearly what they are paying for."

Air purifiers also follow the AI ​​trend, and so does the price.

Another important feature of AI-integrated devices is IoT connectivity. AI is only truly effective when users can monitor and verify the operation process through IoT connectivity. If the device cannot sync with a smartphone or does not have an application to monitor air quality, users are almost "blind to information".

Some models like Coway Airmega Mighty, although having AI, do not support app connection, making the experience limited. Meanwhile, LG, Dyson, Xiaomi or Amway Atmosphere Sky all integrate smart ecosystems, allowing users to have comprehensive control. Ms. Nhu Dong, a user in Quang Ngai , shared: "I bought an air purifier with AI but without an app. After a few months, I didn't know if the machine was working effectively, so I bought another one with connection for easier monitoring for the bedroom."

Need to choose wisely

Faced with the current product matrix, consumers need to be alert and clearly identify their needs. If you live in a highly polluted area, have small children or pets, AI will be a great help. But if you only need basic dust filtration in a 20-30m² bedroom, a machine with smart sensors will be enough.

Expert Nguyen Van Hung recommends: "Consumers should test it in practice or read reviews carefully before buying. Don't get caught up in the keyword 'AI' and forget about the real effectiveness."

AI in air purifiers is a remarkable technological advancement. It helps optimize performance, save energy, and enhance the user experience. But AI is not the only deciding factor. A good air purifier requires a balance between technology, design, cost, and practicality.

In a market that is being overly “AIized”, consumers need to be alert, understand the nature of technology and choose products that suit their actual needs. Because in the end, clean air does not come from algorithms, but from your own smart choices.

Criteria to consider when buying an AI air purifier

- Room area & CADR : CADR index (amount of clean air provided) and capacity determine the filtering ability. Small rooms can use low capacity machines, while large spaces such as living rooms and offices need stronger machines.

- Purpose of use : Clearly define the needs: filter PM2.5 fine dust, remove cigarette and food odors, or kill bacteria - prevent allergies. Each machine will have its own strengths.

- AI & connectivity features : Some models have AI that automatically adjusts the mode based on pollution levels and connects to an app for remote monitoring. This is a convenient option, but if you only need basic functions, a traditional machine will do.

- Maintenance costs : Filters usually need to be replaced every 6-12 months, costing from several hundred thousand to several million VND. You need to calculate the costs in advance to avoid long-term burden.

- Noise level & design: Air purifiers used in bedrooms should have a quiet mode and a neat design that is in harmony with the living space.

Technology to synthesize gasoline from air, powered by solar energy.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/ai-trong-may-loc-khong-khi-cong-nghe-dot-pha-hay-chieu-tro-tiep-thi-post2149052214.html