Building a Smart Kitchen

October 18, 2017

Lisa Eadicicco for TIME, adapted by TFK editors

When it comes to getting help at home, people are putting technology to work. Robots have already done many of the things that most people feel are a chore. A battery-powered robot can vacuum your floors. A robot can clean windows. There’s even a device device JAMIE GRILL—JGI/GETTY IMAGES a piece of equipment that serves a specific purpose (noun) The fork is a device used for eating. in the works to make a bed.

A robotic butler that can cook your dinner won’t exist anytime soon. But maybe it will one day. Right now, many companies are focusing on the kitchen. Helpful technology is being developed. Some devices can help prepare meals. Other devices can shop for groceries.

Here’s a look at a few of the most promising devices so far.

Stay Stocked

A MAGIC BUTTON FOR GROCERIES

Amazon wants to make getting groceries as simple as pressing a button. Its Dash Button lets you reorder certain items with just one press. There are a variety of buttons. They are priced around $5 each. You can order things like Goldfish crackers and Ziploc bags.

A REFRIGERATOR THAT SHOPS

Two technology technology GETTY IMAGES the use of scientific knowledge for a practical purpose (noun) As technology has improved, television screens have gotten thinner. companies, Samsung and LG, want the refrigerator to be more than just a storage space. Each company has created a refrigerator that aims to make it easier to order groceries and find recipes.

A CAMERA THAT LETS YOU PEEK INSIDE

The Smarter FridgeCam is a wireless camera. It connects to an app. This lets you see the contents of your refrigerator from wherever you are. It can also suggest recipes based on ingredients you already have at home. This helps cut down on food waste.

Stay Healthy

A FORK THAT SLOWS YOU DOWN

The HAPIfork helps you stop eating too fast. It will vibrate and light up to let you know when you’re eating too quickly. There’s some evidence that eating slowly cuts down on indigestion. It can also help you eat less, if that’s your goal.

A PLATE THAT HELPS WITH HEALTH

Eating a well-balanced diet is very important. But it can be tricky. The SmartPlate TopView tries to help. The plate works with a scale and an app. It helps you pick healthy-size portions. It also helps you select a nutritious mix of foods.

A CUP THAT KEEPS YOU HYDRATED

The Pryme Vessyl smart cup tracks how much water you drink. A meter on the cup lights up to indicate your hydration level. It pairs with an app. This keeps you updated throughout the day.