Ever since diving into hardware product design, I spend a lot of time thinking about mundane appliances — water geyser, microwave oven, switches, electric kettle, etc. and can they be fun to use.

A couple of days ago, I happened to re-install Monument Valley, the popular game developed by Ustwo. I wondered… what if I force myself to think about weird list of things I wish some boring appliances would have.

I looked at my notes from Introducing game theory: A graphic guide and came up with some potential good ides. If you the find the following interesting, I recommend reading this book.

Here are some:

1. A smart spices storage rack or refrigerator trays that suggests optimal storage placements for spices, pulses, etc. based on the usage patterns of the house — time of the day, consumption, etc., ensuring that everyone gets easy access to items. (Nash equilibrium)

2. The mixer/grinder automatically switches between blending speeds depending on the ingredients. It calculates the best strategy (speed/power) for perfect texture and consistency without wasting energy. This can be taken as an input on the device too! (Mixed strategy)

3. The microwave oven uses energy efficiency. If you choose the most energy-efficient setting, the oven lowers the time of cooking, else it extends cooking duration. (Prisoner’s dilemma)

4. The fridge suggests food quality data based on what lasted least in other homes, updating with real-time feedback from a network of users. (Social learning)

5. The coffee maker learns the common brew strength preferences of the household and creates a midpoint strength for when multiple people are brewing, keeping everyone happy. Almost! (Shelling point)

6. The freezer alerts users when they’re over-storing items, indicating a balance between freezer space and energy use to be effective and longer storage. (Hawk-dove)

7. A stovetop safety feature where it gradually reduces heat (accompanied by periodic beep sound) if left on for too long. This will alert users to act before possible burning or overcooking.

8. The rice cooker talks with other smart appliances in the kitchen, co-ordinating cooking & warming times to make sure rice stays at the right temperature while waiting for other dishes to finish cooking. (Co-ordination equilibrium)

9. Dish washer automatically adjusts water flow and pressure based on how dirty the dishes actually are, making sure it uses the least amount of water while achieving the cleanest dishes. (Dominance solvable)

Next time you’re in the kitchen, think how these possibilities could add some convenience in your life!