Consumer protection and anti-waste groups are calling on the Federal Trade Commission to address the issue of software tethering, a practice that ties a product’s functionality to external software, often rendering it unusable after software updates cease. This article examines the implications of software tethering on consumer products and the push for clearer guidelines from regulatory authorities.
The coalition of groups, including Consumer Reports, iFixIt, US PIRG, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Center for Economic Justice, and Californians Against Waste, have collectively signed a letter urging the FTC to intervene in the issue of software tethering. They highlight the lack of clarity and enforcement in the current ecosystem, which forces consumers to replace products prematurely due to limited functionalities.
The letter calls out specific instances where products have been affected by software tethering, such as the Snoo bassinet, where features advertised with the product were later locked behind a monthly subscription service. Similarly, the Juicero juicer became obsolete after the startup behind it shut down, leaving customers with unsupported devices. These examples underscore the need for greater consumer protection against software tethering practices.
Manufacturers are increasingly using software to restrict the functionality of products, pushing consumers towards purchasing newer models or subscribing to additional services. Lucas Rockett Gutterman, Director of Designed to Last at US PIRG, emphasizes the importance of consumer rights in accessing the full functionality of their purchased products, especially in the era of connected devices.
The authors of the letter warn that even established companies like Google discontinue support for certain products, leaving consumers with obsolete devices and generating electronic waste. Smart home products, including major appliances, are particularly vulnerable to software tethering, resulting in financial losses for consumers and environmental consequences from the disposal of electronic waste.
The coalition stresses the importance of the FTC creating clear guidance on software tethering to protect consumers from being locked out of the full functionality of their purchases. A study mentioned in the letter reveals that only a small percentage of smart appliance makers commit to providing ongoing cybersecurity and software updates, leaving consumers at risk of owning unsupported products.
As more companies introduce ‘smart’ products that rely on internet connectivity and app control, the issue of software tethering is expected to worsen over time. The lack of standardized support periods for product updates raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of consumer technology and the increasing burden of electronic waste on the environment.
The prevalence of software tethering in consumer products poses a significant threat to consumer rights and environmental sustainability. Regulatory interventions, such as the call for action by consumer protection groups, are crucial in establishing guidelines that hold manufacturers accountable for ensuring the longevity and usability of their products. Protecting consumers from premature obsolescence and addressing the growing issue of electronic waste should be a priority for policymakers and industry stakeholders alike.
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