News

iCEBOX - A New Kitchen-Ready Entertainment Centre for the Family (16/8/2004)

iCEBOX(TM) delivers entertainment and information to the one room in the house where every member of the family spends time each day. This multifunctional family product offers something for everybody with internet access, a television, DVD and CD player, FM radio and a video monitoring system all in one sleek unit. Having been specifically designed for the kitchen, the wireless keyboard and remote control are fully waterproof to cope with those inevitable spillages.

iCEBOX(TM) FlipScreen, which is being launched by Beyond, is designed to fit under a kitchen wall unit to help save valuable worktop space. Moving between the various functions is child's play thanks to a touch screen LCD monitor and clear menu layout. This allows iCEBOX(TM) to be operated with one hand, so the dinner can be stirred and groceries ordered online at the same time. The screen can also be rotated and angled so it can be viewed from anywhere in the kitchen.

Internet

iCEBOX(TM) can be connected to the internet via broadband or through the telephone line. By flipping down its 15-inch LCD monitor, users can surf the internet, email friends and family or download information to help the kids with their homework, all from the comfort of the kitchen. In addition, there is a 'My Recipes' icon which includes links to the most popular recipe websites providing inspiration for the family meal.

Television and DVD player

The LCD screen can be used to watch television and when there is nothing on the box the built-in DVD player will come in handy to keep the kids quiet while dinner is being made.

Music

iCEBOX(TM) can also provide music whilst slicing and dicing with its integrated CD player and FM radio. With 3D stereo sound, iCEBOX(TM) is sure to rock any kitchen.

Video monitoring

Equipped with video monitoring capability, iCEBOX(TM) is perfect for the modern day digital home. Its security camera viewing function means there is no need to leave the kitchen to see who is calling at the front door. There is also no need to worry about new arrivals sleeping upstairs or the kids playing in the garden - as they can all be viewed from the iCEBOX(TM) screen. Simply attach an optional inexpensive CCTV camera to the device to turn the iCEBOX(TM) into a monitor for any room in the house.

Graham Drage, European Business Development Director at Beyond comments: "We have worked hard to design a product that is truly meant for the kitchen. Recent research has shown that women are involved in 89% of all consumer electronic purchasing decisions, and yet only 1% believe manufacturers have them in mind when developing products[1]. We are confident that iCEBOX(TM) is set to change this trend and will be a welcome addition to any home."

iCEBOX(TM) retails at GBP1999.99 inc VAT and is available now in slate or black.

[1] Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) Report 2002-03

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