Qingdao, China, June 19, 2025 – Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, has announced the global release of 66 core patents for its triple-drum washing machines. These patents encompass key areas like specialized laundry care, efficient drying, and modular construction. This industry-first open-source technology initiative aims to transform the global laundry industry’s competitive landscape by creating a “technology sharing ecosystem.” This will lower technical hurdles, making specialized laundry care technology more accessible and bringing healthier, more efficient laundry solutions to homes worldwide.
Hisense’s technological advantage in washing machines has resulted in significant market competitiveness. In 2024, Hisense shipped over 6.26 million washing machines globally, ranking among the top three Chinese brands in export volume and experiencing the fastest growth in the sector. The brand is sold in over 140 countries and holds top-three market positions in several regions, demonstrating considerable international strength.
Notably, in the highly regulated European market, Hisense has achieved the remarkable statistic of “five European households choosing Hisense every minute.” The brand has also received certification from the reputable European organization WHICH and has been included in the UK’s “Best Buy” list, making it a preferred choice for consumers.
High recognition in international markets is a result of Hisense’s dedication to technological excellence and product quality, as well as its leading role in shaping the global laundry industry. The decision to openly share core patents for triple-drum washing machines globally underscores its commitment to advancing the industry through shared technology. Hisense’s open-source patent system is the result of eight years of technological development: launching the world’s first triple-drum washing machine “Master” series in 2017, which enabled categorized garment care through independent washing drums; pioneering the design of integrating the upper two small drums with a unified outer drum in 2019, which optimized space, increased washing capacity, and significantly reduced operational noise. This year’s latest “Marshmallow Ultra Family Tub” series features Hisense’s self-developed Zeus Integrated Heat Pump Drying System, becoming the world’s first 4-in-1 heat pump washer-dryer that supports independent washing and drying for three drums. Its split modular design accommodates various installation scenarios like stacking, separation, and embedding, blending home aesthetics with functionality through perfectly flush-fitted technology and a seamless design.
The purpose of open-sourcing patents is to transition the industry from technological barriers to collaborative ecosystems. As stated by the Global Head of Hisense Washing Machines, innovation in the home appliance industry should be a collaborative effort. Broad industry participation in the innovation of triple-drum or multi-drum washing machine technology will accelerate high-quality development across the sector, allowing more users to benefit from the enhanced refinement, health, convenience, and efficiency that zoned washing machines provide.
Hisense is driving the upgrade of the global laundry industry through an open ecosystem, moving from technology export to standard-setting. Industry analysts suggest that Hisense’s open-source initiative signals a shift for Chinese brands from “manufacturing export” to “technological empowerment,” reshaping the innovation norms of the global home appliance industry by fostering a technology-sharing ecosystem. With its global strategy of “technology-driven enterprise,” Hisense is leading the industry towards a smart and healthy future.
The Hisense triple-drum washing machine will debut at this year’s IFA exhibition. Its exceptional performance and unique design will demonstrate the excellence of Chinese intelligent manufacturing to global consumers. We anticipate its impressive presence at IFA, marking a new era in the development of the global laundry care industry.
CONTACT: Xiu Lulu xiululu (at) hisense.com
