LG Electronics has a new lineup of minimalistic appliances that removes all unnecessary buttons and decorative flourishes in a refreshing “less is more” approach. The fridge, washing machine, dryer, oven, and dishwasher are said to feature improved controls for an “effortless” user experience.
The appliances are also upgradeable via software and hardware as part of a program LG launched in January. “Upgradeability challenges the idea that expensive appliances are designed with planned obsolescence in mind,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics home appliances at the time. “We want customers to experience the feeling of getting a new washer or refrigerator throughout the entire lifecycle of an LG appliance, not just the first time they bring the item home.” Let’s just hope LG isn’t taking a page from the automotive industry to extort money from customers in perpetuity by charging to activate basic features the appliances already come with.
by Thomas Ricker, The Verge | Read more:
Image: LG
[ed. Finally, someone gets it. Less is more: See: The microwave’s ‘add 30 seconds’ button offers an escape from cold digital precision (The Verge). By the way, the picture below is what my old useless microwave looks like (I only use it for its stove light and clock). Here's a post: When the Push Button Was New, People Were Freaked.]
