Cool Hunting

The world is filled with technology designed to make lives easier, but many are more nuisance than time-saver. The recently-launched Ikan, however, proves to be both effortless in use and hugely efficient in everyday life. The system consists of a small kitchen appliance about the size of a toaster (shown at right). Once registered, the unit scans barcodes on empty products as you finish them which automatically adds them to a virtual shopping list accessible online. When you're ready to buy new groceries, simply submit the digital list and everything is delivered within three hours. The Ikan also promotes a cleaner environment by listing the most effective method of recycling each spent container.

Ikan recently announced a deal with NYC's D'Agostino grocery stores and are holding demonstrations of the technology at a dozen locations this month. If you don't live in New York, you can still use Ikan as a shopping list-compiler, and fortunately, the company has plans to expand to other locations with new retailers.

The Ikan machine runs for $400 on their web store. You can check out the remaining demonstrations at any of the locations below.

Friday, 16 May 2008
2-5pm: 578 Third Avenue and East 38th Street map
6-9pm: 528 Third Avenue and East 35th Street map

Saturday, 17 May 2008
2-5pm: 666 Greenwich Street and Christopher Street map
6-9pm: 790 Greenwich Street and Bethune Street map

Monday,19 May 2008
2-5pm: 64 University Place and East 11th Street map
6-9pm: 257 West 17th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues map