Gadgets from Movies We Thought We'd Have by Now (But Don’t)

Remember being a kid and dreaming about all the cool gadgets we saw in movies? The 80s and 90s were filled with futuristic tech that made us believe we'd be living in a high-tech wonderland by now. Sure, we might have AI taking white-collar jobs, but where's my automated morning routine? Let's take a nostalgic trip back to some iconic gadgets we thought we'd be using by now but haven’t quite materialized.

The Jetpack from "The Rocketeer"

Who didn't dream of strapping on a jetpack and soaring through the skies like The Rocketeer? While we have seen some advancements in jetpack technology, they are not yet practical for everyday use. The closest we have are water jetpacks, which use jets of water to propel the user into the air. These devices are thrilling but limited to water-based activities.

The Three Seashells from "Demolition Man"

Does anyone know what the three seashells actually did? In "Demolition Man," these futuristic bathroom tools replaced toilet paper, leaving fans puzzled. While the movie never explained how they worked, modern Japanese toilets come close with features like bidets and air dryers, offering a glimpse into high-tech cleanliness.

Jetsons Showering and Dressing Machine

Still wishing your morning routine was as easy as George Jetson’s? The Jetsons’ showering and dressing machine handled the entire morning routine with the push of a button. While we don’t have a single machine that does it all, smart showers and automated grooming gadgets are steps in the right direction.

Cher's Wardrobe from "Clueless"

Ever wished for Cher Horowitz's digital wardrobe from "Clueless"? It allowed her to browse and select outfits with ease. While we haven't fully realized this dream, apps and smart mirrors now help with outfit planning and virtual try-ons, much like Cher’s high-tech closet.

BTW, there's a great Articles of Interest episode that dives into the evolution of digital wardrobes..

Johnny Cabs from "Total Recall"

Waiting for your ride and wishing it was a Johnny Cab from "Total Recall"? These self-driving taxis depicted a future where autonomous vehicles were the norm. Companies like Waymo and Cruise have introduced self-driving taxis, moving us closer to a world where Johnny Cabs are a common sight.

The Replicator from "Star Trek: The Next Generation"

Imagine instantly materialising any meal you desire at the touch of a button, just like the replicators in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." While we've made advances in 3D printing food and other rapid production technologies, the ability to instantly create any dish remains a sci-fi fantasy.