January 12, 2001

6:25 PM

The CES Hall of Shame.The ten stupidest products these guys saw at CES this week. My favorite: Panasonic's Internet-Capable Microwave Ovens. [shudder]
posted by Steven Den Beste (4 comments total)

I don't think they're all *that* bad. Hmm.. an internet microwave, it doesn't sound bad. Though, the problem seems to me is that you have to physically put stuff in it. I would love a whole set of kitchen appliances that are connected to the internet and your pc. This way you can, well... ahh... screw it.
posted by tiaka at 6:44 PM on January 12, 2001

A classic example of 'we don't care what you want' but 'you will buy what we say'!Arrrrrrrrgh!
posted by Mr. skullhead at 6:55 PM on January 12, 2001

I wouldn't mind a networkable microwave. Although I don't have a need for the recipie function described for that Panasonic item.

Minor complaint: That article states: "A few years ago when Iomega introduced the Zip disk..." It's now been over 5 years (!) since zip disks came out and I wouldn't call that "a few years ago," at least not in recently computer history.
posted by gluechunk at 6:56 PM on January 12, 2001

One problem with selling the Internet microwave and other home networking stuff is the need for a killer app. What wonderful benefit will one derive from these gizmos that will drive sales? Netporn in the kitchen?

on the other hand, I for one would defiantly want a unit that played Internet audio and MP3s without a PC. Listening to the BBC et al over the net is much easier than using my shortwave, but I don't want to have to sit in my office chair to do it.
posted by tranquileye at 6:33 AM on January 13, 2001