A countertop water boiler, I have one of the Zojirushi 4 liter units. It turns out I drink 3/4 of a gallon of tea or so per day. So not having to boil a kettle for every round is oddly luxurious.
I remember Technology Connections doing an episode on the Electric kettle. Its fascinating. Microwaving is still the fastest around the house, but I like being able to make more than one cup at a time.
Maybe I'm just tired, but I'm struggling to think of other uses in the kitchen beyond just a warm beverage? Maybe for instant noodles or warming a bottle?