Uhm, my recent washing machine purchase involved actively looking for not needing an app. They did try hard though, for example by offering 3 more years of warranty when you install the app.
Either the cost or repair/replacement during those extra 3 years is really low or your data is really valuable. Adds flavor to the challenge in designing it to last just long enough to leave warranty.
Data is probably not the only advantage they get from the app. For example, you are more likely to purchase other appliances from the same vendor so that you can have them all in the same app.
My washing machine doesn't beep when it is done. My dryer does. So I some times don't time the emptying of the washing machine and have to wait a couple of minutes and the dryer annoyingly beeps when done.
How about an alarm with a mute button. Then everyone can be happy.
