Combustion Expands Product Line with Wi-Fi Features and Increases Thermometer Temperature to 900°F

Key Takeaways

Combustion launched a second-generation precision thermometer that withstands temperatures up to 900°F and a Wi-Fi-connected display.
The new wireless fan, Combustion Engine, improves outdoor grilling by pairing with the thermometer or Grill Gauge for better temperature control.
Customer demand for Wi-Fi connectivity influenced product updates, with an emphasis on managing complexity and ensuring reliability.

Product Updates Announced by Kitchen Startup Combustion

Earlier this month, Combustion, a kitchen startup, unveiled significant upgrades to its product range, including a second-generation precision thermometer that can endure temperatures as high as 900°F. This new thermometer features advanced technology, alongside a connected display integrating Wi-Fi, marking the first time Combustion’s products offer this connectivity.

In addition to these enhancements, Combustion introduced the Combustion Engine, a wireless fan designed to work with their thermometer or the recently launched Grill Gauge. This new fan aims to assist users in better controlling temperatures while grilling outdoors.

CEO Chris Young discussed the necessity of these updates, emphasizing that customer feedback consistently highlighted the demand for Wi-Fi connectivity. Young explained, “The thing about Wi-Fi is that consumers want it because, once you’re connected, you can keep an eye on things while you’re away.” With experience in integrating Wi-Fi from his previous role at ChefSteps (now Breville) with the Joule device, Young is aware of the complexities involved in product management when adding such features. He noted that Combustion’s careful approach to including Wi-Fi was crucial, given the challenges it posed.

The decision-making process entailed determining the appropriate application of Wi-Fi, leading to its integration in components like the charging sleeve and display, while excluding it from the thermometer itself. The team also focused on optimizing battery life and ensuring efficient data transmission from the newly incorporated Wi-Fi chip.

Another notable improvement is the thermometer’s enhanced temperature measurement capability, now reaching up to 900°F, surpassing the maximum temperature of most home ovens. Young acknowledged the technical difficulties tied to developing a device suitable for such extreme conditions, stating, “You’re getting into exotic circuit board materials. Oxygen does crazy things at 900 degrees and starts to attack copper.” This advancement reflects extensive production improvements aimed at boosting reliability and performance.

Feedback on the new products has been positive, as seen in the Combustion Reddit forum, where Young engages with user inquiries. Customers can expect the new thermometer to be available next month, with the Combustion Engine set for release in spring 2025. As a prelude to these launches, the company is offering discounts on its first-generation thermometers ahead of Thanksgiving, providing an incentive for customers interested in exploring Combustion’s offerings.

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