There is no reason whatsoever for a home appliance to have a computer in it. If you need to know how much of what is in your refrigerator get one with a clear door

[–] [email protected] 9 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (2 children)

Don't get me wrong: tech is awesome. I spend way, way too much money on the newest scifi shit. I have a folding phone, at least 10 cameras, a laser cutter, 5 windows systems I use regularly (3 laptops, a desktop, and a handheld), 2 drones, a color e-ink tablet, and even a kayak with a GPS-controlled motor.

I have a diving flashlight that cost more than 2 different cars I've bought.

It's a problem. But I love new tech and all the cool shit I can do with it.

But appliances? If the device's function is simply to make something hot, cold, wet, dry, or clean it's pretty much a solved problem from a tech standpoint. Not really any significant innovations since the Microwave.

When the circuit board failed in my parent's 3yo dryer the part was $700. I have a 50yo dryer that's basically a glorified egg timer attached to a motor and it works great. Last time it broke I replaced a switch in the door for 50 cents, and that was over a decade ago.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 5 months ago

that's the thing - put tech in stuff where it makes sense. no one needs an Internet connected toothbrush or a smart fridge, they're just useless gadgets

[–] [email protected] 1 points 5 months ago

Yep. Tech is a wonderful thing but not everything needs it

[–] [email protected] 7 points 5 months ago

Ehh, sometimes with enough features a microcontroller is appropriate. But a full-blown operating system - even an embedded variant - is many steps too far.

[–] funkless_eck 3 points 5 months ago

I like getting a dingle on my phone if I leave my fridge door open