Maytag designed the unique vending machine for home use, sizing it down to 21.25-in long, 23.62-in wide, and 34.25-in high. The unit can stock bottles and cans together, and has the capacity to hold as many as 66 12-oz cans or 33 12-oz bottles. They are dispensed using four selection buttons.

The refrigerated unit includes a child safety lock that works on individual selections. A low indicator light appears when a selection is almost empty. The unit includes a lower shelving area, ideal for storing snacks.

The SkyBox has a black or platinum finish and can be customized with NFL, college, and other sports logos on the front or side panels. Maytag also plans to introduce SkyBoxes that can be outfitted with personal family photographs or art.

"The SkyBox makes home entertainment a lot easier and a whole lot more fun," says Fred Lowery, product director of Strategic Initiatives for Maytag.

Initial orders for the SkyBox were taken only by Amazon.com. Units will also be available at other retail outlets in February 2004 at an estimated retail price of U.S. $569.

Maytag, Newton, IA, U.S.; http://www.maytag.com