Many handheld devices offer multiple functions, so why not kitchen appliances ? LG Electronics has introduced the first-of-its-kind digital high-definition television (HDTV) Refrigerator. The new fridge is a side-by-side model that incorporates LG’s fifth-generation ATSC-QAM-NTSC digital television tuner that delivers crisp digital broadcast and unscrambled cable images to the refrigerator’s 15" high-definition LCD television screen.

In addition to a remote-controlled, cable-ready, high-definition LCD screen and FM radio on the right door, the unit features a DVD connection on top of the unit. The left door of the side-by-side unit also includes a four-inch Weather & Info Center LCD display located above the ice and water dispenser complete with a digital control display and special features. LG says families can prepare and enjoy dinner without missing their favorite news and entertainment shows, as well as take advantage of advanced features, which include :

Weather forecasts : The LG unit delivers personalized weather forecasts based on a consumer’s geographic area, along with the forecast for four surrounding cities, via a wireless pager network ;

Recipe bank : From chilled gazpacho soup to tiramisu, the refrigerator’s built-in recipe bank can help turn anyone into a chef with 100 pre-loaded recipes from the Culinary Institute of America ; food categories include appetizers, soups, salads, meat/poultry, seafood, vegetarian, side dishes and dessert ;

Digital photo album : Users can upload their personal photo album via a USB port in the dispenser area and select a slide show mode to display favorite pictures ; and

Organization tools : These functions include date/time clock, calendar with anniversary alarm and more.

A child lock function, room temperature display, digital user manual, product controls and information are also part of the complete package. The LG HDTV Refrigerator also incorporates LG’s new SpacePlus Ice System, which makes ice directly on the door, as opposed to on the top of the freezer section. This helps to free up storage capacity within the freezer, while still delivering the convenience of an in-door ice dispenser. The icemaker also features a custom cube option and a removable bin.

The LG HDTV Refrigerator, model LSC27990TT, will be available in the second quarter of 2007 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $3,999.