Futuristic fridges invade Berlin consumer electronics show

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

BERLIN (AFP) — The Ifa, Europe's top consumer electronics show, is normally all about gadgets that make life more entertaining with the latest flat screen televisions, stereo equipment and the like.

But this year the Internationale Funkausstellung, opening in Berlin on Friday, will for the first time see usually more down-to-earth appliances like fridges and washing machines fighting for attention.

According to organisers of the six-day show, which hopes to attract more than 200,000 visitors, the inclusion of white goods reflects what they call a "worldwide trend for more comfort in the home and for healthier eating."

And in these days of soaring energy bills and growing environmental consciousness about global warming and water resources, they also offer...