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Interesting to think about what the future could look like. What if breaker boxes were "smart" and able to negotiate higher voltages like USB-C does? It would avoid the problem of a kid sticking a fork in an outlet, or a stray wire getting brushed accidentally when installing a light fixture.

Time will tell!

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> What if breaker boxes were "smart" and able to negotiate higher voltages like USB-C does?

That'd be difficult; a breaker typically feeds an entire room, not a single outlet. (And when it does feed a single outlet, that's typically because it's dedicated to a specific large appliance, like an air conditioner or electric stove, which wouldn't benefit from being able to dynamically negotiate a voltage.)

Appliances, like electric range, that need higher power have dedicated 240V circuits. My understanding is that 240V circuits use thicker cable because they usually also have higher current. But it is possible to convert 120V to 240V if only one device, sometimes done for imported electric kettles.

> It would avoid the problem of a kid sticking a fork in an outlet

One of the best things about living in the UK! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEfP1OKKz_Q

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