Anova, a company known for its smart sous vide cookers, is facing criticism from customers following the announcement of a subscription fee for its companion app. This app is essential for users of Anova’s cooking devices as it provides cooking guides, notifications, and access to recipes. The subscription fee, priced at $2 per month or $10 per year, will be mandatory for new users starting August 21.
Sous vide cooking, a method where food is sealed in airtight containers and cooked in temperature-controlled water, has gained popularity in recent years. Anova, founded in 2013, offers a range of sous vide immersion circulators, with the Precision Cooker 3.0 being the latest model.
In response to the backlash, Anova’s CEO Stephen Svajian explained that the subscription fees are necessary to maintain and improve the app’s features. This decision comes shortly after the company announced the discontinuation of Bluetooth remote control for some devices, affecting the user experience for those reliant on the app.
The news has sparked a wave of discontent among customers, with many expressing their disappointment on Anova’s blog post. Some users threatened to boycott the company, labeling the subscription fee as “anti-consumer” and “greedy.” The loyalty of long-standing customers is now in question as Anova navigates the fallout from these controversial changes.
Vocabulary List:
- Subscription /səbˈskrɪp.ʃən/ (noun): An arrangement to receive something regularly especially a service or product for a fee.
- Companion /kəmˈpæn.jən/ (noun): A person or thing that accompanies or is associated with another.
- Discontinuation /ˌdɪs.kənˌtɪn.juˈeɪ.ʃən/ (noun): The process of stopping or ending something.
- Airtight /ˈeər.taɪt/ (adjective): Not allowing anything to pass through; sealed tight.
- Backlash /ˈbæk.læʃ/ (noun): A strong negative reaction by a large number of people.
- Greedy /ˈɡriː.di/ (adjective): Having an excessive desire for something especially wealth.
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