Technology is already here, just too many "consumer" driven appliance makers chasing every new fad. In the process they cheapen existing products or produce poorly designed replacements. "New" machines? Forget it, most washer and dryers sold today seem to be an Asian clone or knock-off.
The next big trend may be small commercial (18-25 pound) washers and dryers for home use. Dexter, Speed Queen, Schutless and others already produce quality "small" laundry appliances for on premise laundry. Most are soft mount and run on single phase 120v power. Cost may be "steep", but considering the short life span on much of what is out there, one might as well go with a small commercial washer.
For the longest time have been looking for a new front loader that holds more than Miele, but built as well. Probably going to with SQ as it seems the only quality built front loader out there. Many of the new offerings look interesting, but up close they are plastic, plastic, and more plastic.
Launderess