What I’ve learned from using a voice-controlled microwave and oven in my own kitchen
A few days ago in a low vision group, someone asked about our favorite AI-powered or smart devices. I mentioned that I use a voice-controlled microwave and a voice-controlled oven. To my surprise, I received several replies asking for more information — especially about the microwave. Since there was so much interest, I thought it would be helpful to share the details of both appliances here, as they’ve each made a real difference in my daily cooking routines.
The Problem with Traditional Appliances
For years, I found myself frustrated by kitchen appliances that weren’t designed with vision loss in mind. Touchpads filled with tiny buttons and little or no contrast made them hard to use. On my old over-the-range microwave, the controls were on the far right-hand side, which meant I had to lean dangerously across the stovetop just to try to read them. The oven was no better, with small print and confusing buttons. Beyond the inconvenience, there were safety concerns every time I cooked.
GE Profile Smart Range with induction cooktop and voice-controlled oven.
The GE Profile Smart Range
The first step forward came when I purchased a GE Profile Smart Range. At the time, I had no idea I’d eventually find a voice-controlled microwave too — so my main priority was choosing a stove that I could operate safely and independently.
The GE Profile offered exactly what I needed: a voice-controlled oven paired with an induction cooktop. If both appliances had been available to me at the same time, I probably would have stuck with a single brand for consistency. But in the end, the mix of GE and LG hasn’t caused any problems, since there aren’t really any features that require the stove and microwave to “link” together.
One of the other major features that caught my eye when I was shopping for the range was the cooktop controls. They’re sometimes called easy glide controls. You simply touch the control in or near the middle, and it lights up. Then, by sliding your finger in a semi-circle, the light follows your movement, making it very clear how high you are setting it. To raise or lower the temperature, you just touch the circle. This simple visual feedback makes the cooktop far easier to use than traditional knobs or tiny digital buttons.
If you’d like to see how the Glide Touch controls actually work, GE has a short video demonstration on YouTube that shows the controls lighting up and responding to a finger swipe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57kqf2Fmcl0
Voice Control Features
Through Google Assistant or Alexa, I can:
- Preheat the oven
“Hey Google, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.”
“Alexa, tell SmartHQ to preheat the oven to 400 degrees.” - Set a cooking mode and time
“Hey Google, set the oven to convection bake at 400 degrees.”
“Alexa, set the oven to bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.” - Start or stop the oven
“Hey Google, start the oven.”
“Alexa, tell the oven to start.” - Adjust the temperature
“Hey Google, raise the oven temperature by 25 degrees.”
“Alexa, tell my oven to add ten degrees.” - Use special functions (air fry, convection roast, etc., depending on model)
- Check status — is the oven on, how much time remains, or what temperature it’s at
Why It Works for Me
The induction cooktop was another major reason I chose this model. It heats quickly but stays cooler to the touch than a traditional range, reducing the risk of burns. The cooktop controls are also easier to manage than on my previous stove. Combined with voice control for the oven, it has made both everyday stovetop cooking and baking safer and more accessible.
LG Voice-Controlled Microwave with bottom-edge controls for easier access.
The LG Voice-Controlled Microwave
Not long after purchasing the range, I finally discovered what I had been waiting for: a voice-controlled over-the-range microwave. For years, I’d only seen countertop models with this feature, but my kitchen setup required an over-the-range style. Finding the LG model was a real turning point.
Voice Control Features
Voice control makes the LG microwave simple to use without needing to press buttons.
With voice commands, I can:
- Start the microwave (“Microwave on high for 2 minutes”)
- Add time while it’s running (“Add 30 seconds”)
- Defrost without guesswork
- Stop or cancel cooking
- Ask how much time is left
These simple commands mean I rarely need to use the control panel at all.
Accessible Design Details
When I do use the buttons, the layout is much easier than my old microwave. The controls are placed along the bottom edge of the door, so I don’t have to lean across the stovetop just to reach them. This small design change makes a big difference in safety.
I’ve also added Halo Microwave Button Stickers (tactile icons) to mark the most important controls. Between the voice features and tactile markers, the microwave is simple and stress-free to use.
A Few Words Before You Go
Neither of these appliances is marketed specifically as “accessibility products,” but for me, they’ve been two of the most valuable adaptations I’ve made in the kitchen. The GE Profile Smart Range gave me independence and safety with cooking and baking, and the LG Voice-Controlled Microwave finally solved a frustration I had dealt with for years.
If you’ve been struggling with appliances that weren’t designed with vision loss in mind, these are worth exploring. Smart technology, when chosen carefully, really can make everyday living easier.