The iKettle might have a terribly cliched name, but it makes up for that unoriginality with loads of novel functionality that might just be enough to justify its $160 price tag. Maybe. After all, how many kettles do you know that politely ask if you'd like a piping hot cup of tea when you get home at night?
The crux of the kettle's capabilities is its ability to connect to your home's Wi-Fi network. This puts it in contact with an accompanying mobile app on your smartphone that gives you complete control over all of the kettle's functionality—including multiple temperature options for different hot beverages—from wherever you have access to your home's wireless network.
Starting the kettle boiling before you get up and head to the kitchen is a wonderful feature, for sure. But it's the iKettle's ability to monitor its internal temperature and alert you when the water is ready that most coffee and tea fans will love—especially since it sends you notifications instead of an ear-piercing whistle. And last but not least, when you walk through the door at the end of the day and your smartphone rejoins your wireless network, the iKettle will even offer to start a fresh brew like your own personal butler who really has only one skill. [Firebox via Daily Mail]