In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, the issue of software tethering and planned obsolescence has come to the forefront of consumer protection concerns. A coalition of consumer protection and anti-waste groups, including Consumer Reports, iFixit, US PIRG, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Center for Economic Justice, and Californians Against Waste, is pushing for action by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to address these practices that harm consumers.
One of the key issues highlighted by the coalition is the practice of software tethering, where hardware’s functionality is tied to external software. This often leads to products becoming unusable after software updates cease, forcing consumers to replace perfectly functional devices. The letter sent to the FTC calls for clear guidance on software tethering and emphasizes the impact it has on consumer trust and product longevity.
The letter points out specific cases where software tethering has restricted or eliminated product functionalities. For instance, customers who purchased the $1,695 Snoo bassinet found that features advertised with the product required a monthly subscription service. Similarly, the Juicero juicer became unsupported and effectively unusable after the startup behind it shut down. These examples demonstrate how software tethering can harm consumers and create unnecessary electronic waste.
Lucas Rockett Gutterman, Director of Designed to Last at US PIRG, highlights the importance of standing up for consumers’ right to receive the full value of their purchases in the age of connected devices. Manufacturers should not be allowed to use software to lock consumers into using products in ways that prioritize profits over consumer needs. The coalition’s push for FTC intervention seeks to protect consumers from being pushed into premature product replacements.
The letter also raises concerns about the environmental impact of software tethering and planned obsolescence in tech products. Major companies like Google have discontinued products, leaving customers with electronic waste and significant financial losses. Smart home products, particularly major appliances, are at risk of becoming obsolete due to lack of software updates and support. This not only represents a loss for consumers but also contributes to the growing issue of electronic waste.
A study cited in the letter reveals that only a few major smart appliance makers guarantee specific timeframes for providing cybersecurity and software updates. This lack of clarity from manufacturers further compounds the problem of planned obsolescence. As technology continues to evolve, the coalition anticipates that the issue will worsen, with more companies producing “smart” products that are prone to early obsolescence.
The fight against software tethering and planned obsolescence in tech products is crucial for protecting consumer rights and minimizing electronic waste. The coalition’s efforts to urge the FTC to take action on this issue are a step towards ensuring that consumers receive the full value of their purchases and that products are designed to last. By holding manufacturers accountable for their practices, consumers can advocate for a more sustainable and consumer-friendly tech industry.
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