Since becoming editor of KBZine several years ago, I've discovered the most incredible technology that's available to us in the home - technology which is so cleverly used, that if the information hadn't come from such a reliable source, I wouldn't actually believe  what I was reading. So often I've thought that we've gone as far as we can and then someone comes up with something else that amazes me - and I sit with my mouth open and stare in wonder.

It's just happened again.

"What does a washing machine you use like a hula hoop and an intelligent dish that transforms food into sound have in common? Two things: They are both semi-finalists in Electrolux Design Lab 2012 and both look to engage our senses in new and interesting ways," says the press release.

Of course I had to click on the link to find out about the other entries.

How about the Easy Stir, which uses magnets that react to your induction stove to stir the food in your pots, leaving you free to get on with other things in the knowledge that your food won't burn... Or the Smart Embossed Blender, through which you can feel how smooth or rough your ingredients are while you're blending, so you know when the job's complete... or the Spacepan - a portable stovetop that can be used virtually anywhere in the home and which lets you know how hot the heating elements are via illuminated, colour indicators under each pot...

Then for those who travel long distances for work but need to arrive at the appointment looking smart; 'Touch' fits into the palm of your hand where it uses infrared light to remove wrinkles from your clothes while you're still wearing them.

I've only touched the surface, so visit http://newsroom.electrolux.com/uk/2012/08/07/electrolux-design-lab-announce-30-semi-finalists/ and prepare to be wowed!

Yours,

Jan Hobbs