GE won’t let me use convection roast on my new oven without connecting to WiFi (twitter.com)

Article summary

A person bought a new oven from GE Appliances, but was unable to use the convection roast feature without connecting the oven to WiFi. The person reluctantly downloaded the app, but was unable to connect to WiFi after 10 minutes of trying. The oven requires a WiFi connection to use certain features, which has sparked a discussion about the pros and cons of smart appliances. The person's experience highlights the frustration that can come with smart devices that require internet connectivity to function fully.

Main themes

• smart appliances
• WiFi connectivity
• consumer choice
• security and privacy
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• forced obsolescence

What commenters say

• Some people believe that smart appliances are unnecessary and can be a source of frustration, while others see them as a convenient feature.
• The requirement for WiFi connectivity to use certain features can be seen as a form of forced obsolescence or a way to collect user data.
• There are concerns about the security and privacy implications of connecting appliances to the internet, particularly for devices that control critical systems like heating and cooling.
• Others argue that the benefits of smart appliances, such as remote monitoring and control, outweigh the potential risks and frustrations.
• Some people think that consumers should have the option to choose between smart and non-smart appliances, rather than being forced to accept smart devices as the default.
• The quality and reliability of smart appliances can vary greatly, and some people have had positive experiences with certain brands or models.
• The issue of smart appliances is also related to the broader topic of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its potential impact on society and individual privacy.