I won't connect my dishwasher to your cloud (jeffgeerling.com)

Article summary

The author purchased a new Bosch dishwasher, only to discover that certain features, such as the rinse cycle and eco mode, require a connection to the internet and a cloud account. This was not disclosed at the time of purchase, and the author is unhappy about the requirement. The author believes that these features should be accessible locally, without the need for an internet connection. The author also expresses concerns about planned obsolescence and the potential for the cloud service to be discontinued or become a subscription-based model.

Main themes

• Internet of Things
• Planned Obsolescence
• Consumer Rights
• Smart Home Devices
• Security Concerns

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that Consumer Reports failed to adequately review the product and its requirements, leading to a disappointing purchase experience.
• Others believe that the need for an internet connection and cloud account is an example of planned obsolescence and a way for companies to collect user data.
• A few commenters suggest that the author should return the dishwasher or take legal action, citing potential consumer fraud and deceptive business practices.
• Some argue that the features should be accessible locally, without the need for an internet connection, to improve user experience and security.
• There is disagreement about whether the need for an internet connection is a significant issue, with some commenters seeing it as a minor inconvenience and others as a major concern.
• A few commenters propose alternative solutions, such as using a local automation protocol like Matter or purchasing used and refurbished appliances.
• Some express frustration with the trend of requiring accounts and internet connections for everyday devices, citing concerns about security, privacy, and convenience.