The magic of electronics has now touched virtually every household appliance. Washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers offer a variety of cycles for different loads. Bread machines and coffeemakers complete their work at a time programmed in advance. Some microwave ovens hold scores of recipes in their electronic memory and can download more from the Internet. Robotic vacuum cleaners have made their debut. Where appliance technology will go from here is no more predictable than how habits of housework will be altered by it, but a century's worth of progress suggests that an eventful road lies ahead.