"Consumers need a clear standard for what to expect when purchasing a connected device," stated Justin Brookman, director of technology policy at Consumer Reports and a former policy director of the FTC's Office of Technology, Research, and Investigation. "Too often, consumers are left with devices that become worthless after a short period due to functional limits imposed by manufacturers."
The practice of using software to block features and functions is referred to by the signatories as "software tethering," which many view as unfairly limiting consumer ownership rights.
In cases like the Google/Levis jacket and Spotify’s Car Thing, both devices were rendered unusable when associated software or services were discontinued, raising significant consumer rights concerns.
Activists argue that device manufacturers imposing fees or restrictions on features post-purchase undermines the value of resale, a key consideration for many consumers purchasing high-ticket items like the $1,695 Snoo bassinet.
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