In a plea to the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumer rights advocates are urging a crackdown on device-makers who cripple products using software tricks. The advocates expressed concern about gadgets like Google and Levi’s smart jacket, which became dumb after its controlling app was axed in 2023, and Spotify’s Car Thing that was bricked after 2 years, with no refunds. The activists want clear rules to stop such “software tethering,” arguing it leaves buyers stranded with useless gear and hurts resale value. I agree with this approach, but fear that little will be done in the long run.
Consumer and digital rights activists are calling on the US Federal Trade Commission to stop device-makers using software to reduce product functionality, bricking unloved kit, or adding surprise fees post-purchase.
Found at www.theregister.com
