It is driven mainly by manufacturers' desire to add value and differentiate themselves although they claim it is in response to consumer demand.

Most consumers are confused and overwhelmed and end up never using the features because they actually prefer things that are simple and convenient.

They have far more features and functions, in part thanks to the ready availability of apps.

The single button on a machine of the future could allow the machine to decide what the consumer wants to do.

Function inflation refers to the fact that modern appliances are being produced with more and more, often unnecessary, functions.

A focus group is a sample group of consumers who try out products and give feedback to the manufacturers.