Appliances On-line

As we get closer to Will Smith’s ‘I, Robot’ rendition of computers ruling the world we now have home appliances connected to the ‘net. USA Today reports appliances ‘that link wirelessly to Internet-connected home networks are being tested by consumers who are receiving updates on their dirty laundry via cellphones, computers and TV sets. Messages not only indicate when a wash is complete but also can warn that a lint filter is clogged or a load is too large. Users can remotely command the machines to fluff dry clothes or start a load from a distance after being told – oops – they forgot to start the wash.’

Another useless (but kind of neat) gadget or is this the new wave of the future? Who will use this technology and how practical it will actually be is the question I would like to see answered?