Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Age verification

2025-12-22T23:35:46Z

Neight: Add that age verification laws are in place in many US states

{{Incomplete}}
{{See also|Forced identification|De-anonymization}}

'''Age Verification''' (AV), also referred to as '''Age Affirmation''' (AA), is the process in where a business requires some form of identification to verify your age. This is usually done for more explicit or mature content. This practice has been widely spreading since the [[UK Online Safety Act|UK's Online Safety Act (OSA)]] has passed; requiring all individuals to verify themselves before accessing mature content. Ways of checking age include, but are not limited to: checking for a valid credit card, facial age estimation tools, government-issued ID, biometric data, account history behavior, and more.

As of December 2025, 25 US States require websites with mature content to verify age.<ref>{{Cite web |title=State Age Verification Laws - Action Center |url=https://action.freespeechcoalition.com/age-verification-resources/state-avs-laws/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-12-22}}</ref>

==How it works==
When accessing a platform or website that may contain content not suitable for all audiences may force you to register for the platform along with verifying your age by one of the methods mentioned previously. Sites that likely don't use any form of account system will probably have a popup instead requiring you to verify your age before even serving the content you were trying to access.

==Why it is a problem==

===Privacy===
Having companies easily able to identify you means they can track you more efficiently and sell that shared profile to other companies such as ad agencies that then start targeting you specifically.

Governments can also more easily track online movements and find out who you are. Saying something that may go against their own agenda may end up with a police raid, heavy interrogation, and prison time.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Liu |first=John |date=2025-06-20 |title=China tightens internet controls with new centralized form of virtual ID |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/20/tech/china-censorship-internet-id-hnk-intl#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThis%20is%20a%20state%2Dled,an%20infrastructure%20of%20digital%20totalitarianism.%E2%80%9D |access-date=2025-09-04 |work=CNN}}</ref>

===Censorship===
Certain topics, such as adult content, politics, and LGBT+ topics, will likely be unfairly censored by the governing body or company that has a say on what platform has the '''potential''' to be inappropriate for minors or other age groups.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-01 |title=Strict Age Verification Laws: Balancing Content Restriction and Educational Rights |url=https://www.thinkacademy.ca/blog/strict-age-verification-laws-impact-k12-education/#:~:text=Impact%20on%20K12,affect%20these%20groups |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Think Academy}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Kelley |first=Jason |last2=Mackey |first2=Aaron |last3=Mullin |first3=Joe |date=2024-02-15 |title=Don’t Fall for the Latest Changes to the Dangerous Kids Online Safety Act |url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2024/02/dont-fall-latest-changes-dangerous-kids-online-safety-act |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>

Platforms that host this type of content may also be more proactive in deleting/hiding posts that may get them in trouble or fined by laws or policies by local governments, leading to a more censored internet where opinions are streamlined to fit a set narrative or outlook.<ref name=":0" />

===Increased inequality and denial of service===
Some stores, such as grocery stores, prohibit young people from viewing their web sites or using [[loyalty cards]], which provide discounts and digital coupons. Age verification means that young people and families where the young person does the shopping pay more for essentials like food.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Pell |first=Miranda |date=25 Oct 2024 |title=Tesco, Lidl and Sainsbury's shoppers issued warning over little-known 'age limit' rules |url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/tesco-lidl-sainsburys-shoppers-issued-30233318 |access-date=20 Sep 2025 |work=Manchester evening news}}</ref> Those who do not have ID, or do not chose to use it (for instance, those who fear domestic violence, or are members of a group subject to persecution) may also be locked out or have to pay more.

===Storage of private and biometric Information by age verification service providers===
A study commissioned by the Australian government found that age verification service providers accumulate a concerning amount of personal information, sometimes even biometric in nature, even when that was not necessary to provide the age verification service.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Meineck |first=Sebastian |date=2025-09-03 |title=Anbieter von Alterskontrollen horten biometrische Daten [Age Verification Providers are hoarding biometric Data] |url=https://netzpolitik.org/2025/australisches-gutachten-anbieter-von-alterskontrollen-horten-biometrische-daten/ |access-date=2025-09-03 |website=Netzpolitik.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Meineck |first=Sebastion |date=2025-09-03 |title=Anbieter von Alterskontrollen horten biometrische Daten [Google Translate English Version] |url=https://netzpolitik-org.translate.goog/2025/australisches-gutachten-anbieter-von-alterskontrollen-horten-biometrische-daten/?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=de&_x_tr_pto=wapp |access-date=2025-09-03 |website=Netzpolitik.org}}</ref>

===Driving users towards smaller and completely unregulated offerings===
Big platforms can be regulated and forced to comply with applicable laws since they need to have infrastructure such as servers in all major markets. Only these will be affected by the age restriction requirement.

However, users who do not wish to compromise their privacy or who are not of age will then go looking towards smaller niche platforms, often in other regions not affected by the regulation or the darknet.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Kaleta |first=Miroslav |date=2025-08-20 |title=The Cost of Data Privacy Negligence (And How to Avoid It) |url=https://countly.com/blog/data-privacy-negligence#:~:text=2.%20Losing%20Customer,IBM%20Report. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Countly Blog}}</ref> With these offerings, there is little to no leverage with regards to removal of illegal content. Increased exposure to illegal content can then lead to both a strengthening of illegal content providers<ref>{{Cite web |last=Branley |first=Dawn |last2=Covey |first2=Judith |date=2016-06-06 |title=Is exposure to online content depicting risky behavior related to viewers' own risky behavior offline? |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563217303357 |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref> and significantly increased danger to minors, who may not yet be able to differentiate between legal and illegal content as well as an adult.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04 |title=Potential risks of content, features, and functions: The science of how social media affects youth |url=https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/youth-social-media-2024 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416042251/https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/youth-social-media-2024 |archive-date=2024-04-16 |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=American Psychological Association}}</ref>

===Increased damage from data breaches===
Platforms which implement age checks that require sensitive information such as a government-issued ID will likely be more of a target for cyber criminals.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-02 |title=Cybercriminals Target These Industries the Most – Here’s Why and How to Stay Safe |url=https://brandefense.io/blog/cybercriminals-target-these-industries/#:~:text=The%20Most%20Vulnerable%20Industries%20to,information%20stored%20within%20their%20networks. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Brandefense}}</ref> As more platforms comply with the age checks, it becomes more likely that a data breach on at least one of these platforms can reveal extremely sensitive information. In the case of a data breach, it can be catastrophic if users' sensitive information were exposed, which can likely result in identity theft.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Popov |first=Cristina |date=2023-03-22 |title=Why breaches can affect you long after they occur |url=https://www.bitdefender.com/en-us/blog/hotforsecurity/why-breaches-can-affect-you-long-after-they-occur#:~:text=%232%3A%20Breaches%20can,for%20online%20accounts. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Bitdefender}}</ref>

Platforms already experience major losses and consumer distrust from data breaches that reveal information less sensitive than government-issued IDs or biometric data.<ref name=":1" /> A data breach involving information this sensitive will seriously damage a business, and the users even more so. As stated previously, users who foresee these privacy risks will turn away from platforms which implement the policy, and towards niche platforms.

==Examples==
*[[YouTube]]'s Age verification and account estimation algorithm. (See [[Youtube age verification]] for more information)

*[[Spotify]]'s Age affirmation for MA rated songs and content.

*[[Discord]]'s Age verification for accounts determining what eligible servers are available.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Wemo discontinuation of service

2025-12-22T22:47:09Z

Neight: Add ongoing event template and page category

Belkin [[Wemo]] smart home devices require cloud connectivity to work. On July 10, 2025, Belkin announced the shutdown of cloud services supporting most Wemo devices, effective January 31, 2026.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2025-07-10 |title=Belkin Official Support - Wemo Support Ending – What You Need to Know |url=https://www.belkin.com/support-article/?articleNum=335419 |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Belkin Official Support}}</ref> These devices remain for sale on Belkin's Amazon WeMo store <ref>{{Cite web |title=Amazon.com: Wemo Smart Plug with Thread - Smart Outlet for Apple HomeKit - Smart Home Products, Smart Home Lighting, Smart Home Gadgets - Homekit Smart Plug - Tech Gifts - Works W/ Apple iPhone, Easy NFC Set Up : Tools & Home Improvement |url=https://www.amazon.com/Wemo-Smart-Plug-Thread-Products/dp/B09T4S3QKC |archive-url=https://archive.is/wip/ORa4X |archive-date=2025-07-13 |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Amazon.com: Wemo Smart Plug with Thread - Smart Outlet for Apple HomeKit - Smart Home Products, Smart Home Lighting, Smart Home Gadgets - Homekit Smart Plug - Tech Gifts - Works W/ Apple iPhone, Easy NFC Set Up : Tools & Home Improvement}}</ref> and advertising them as working with Google, Alexa, & more.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |title=Amazon.com: Wemo |url=https://www.amazon.com/stores/Wemo/page/E33F6EA2-93FC-48CD-8BF6-EE10D5398795 |archive-url=https://archive.ph/wip/TBvNl |archive-date=2025-07-13 |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Amazon.com: Wemo}}</ref>

This shutdown will disable remote access and automation functionality for 27+ device models sold between August 2015 and November 2023, affecting thousands of customers who purchased these devices as permanent smart home solutions. The incident is one example of a broader trend of IoT device abandonment & [[wikipedia:Tethering|software tethering]] practices that enable manufacturers to remotely disable purchased products.

{{OngoingEvent}}

==Background==
Wemo is a smart home product line developed by Belkin, first launched in 2011. The product line includes smart plugs, light switches, motion sensors, dimmers, and connected appliances like coffee makers and humidifiers. These devices were marketed as one-time purchases with cloud features, app control, and integration with voice assistants including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.

Wemo gained popularity for its convenience, ease of use, and broad compatibility with voice assistants and cloud automation programs. Devices were sold with '''no disclosed end-of-life timeline for cloud functionality'''.

==2025 Shutdown announcement==
[[File:Email from belkin about wemo shutdown.jpg|alt=Email from Belkin about Wemo shutdown|thumb|Email notification sent to Wemo customers about the January 2026 shutdown]]

On July 10, 2025, Belkin created a support page and began emailing customers informing them that most Wemo devices would stop working on January 31, 2026.<ref name=":2" /> The company described this as a ''"difficult decision"'' to shut down cloud services for Wemo products, stating they needed to ''"focus our resources on different parts of the Belkin business."''

The shutdown affects any feature requiring cloud connectivity, including:
*Wemo app functionality
*Amazon Alexa integration
*Google Home integration
*Remote access capabilities
*Automation and scheduling features
*Technical support

===Devices affected===
This shutdown impacts 24 different device models spanning smart plugs, switches, specialty appliances, and sensors sold between August 2015 and November 2023, including:
*Wemo Smart Plug (multiple generations)
*Wemo Smart Light Switches
*Wemo In-Wall Dimmers and Switches
*Wemo connected appliances (smart crockpots, air purifiers, coffee makers, humidifiers)
*Wemo Motion Sensors and LED lighting kits
*Wemo Outdoor Smart Plug
*Wemo Mini Smart Plug
*Various specialty devices and older models

Only four Thread-based models will continue functioning through Apple HomeKit after the shutdown date, and only if configured prior to January 31, 2026.

===Timing and warranty issues===
Devices with 3-year warranties sold as recently as November 2023 will lose core functionality before warranty expiration. Belkin offers only partial refunds for devices still under warranty after the shutdown date, requiring consumers to wait until their devices are non-functional before seeking compensation.

==Belkin suggests disposing of the devices==
Belkin's official response recommends that customers dispose of out-of-warranty devices at authorized e-waste recycling centers, despite the devices remaining physically functional:<ref name=":2" />
<blockquote>''"For any Wemo devices you have that are out of warranty, will not work with HomeKit or if you are unable to use HomeKit, we recommend disposing of these devices at an authorized e-waste recycling center."''</blockquote>

This recommendation is particularly controversial for in-wall switches and dimmers that are permanently installed in customers' homes. One Ars Technica forum user suggested: ''"I recommend boxing them up and shipping them directly to Belkin corporate headquarters."''<ref>{{Cite web |title=ReaderBot comment on Ars Technica forums |url=https://arstechnica.com/civis/threads/belkin-shows-tech-firms-getting-too-comfortable-with-bricking-customers%E2%80%99-stuff.1508302/post-43842885 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref>

==Continued sales of soon-to-be-dead products==
Despite announcing the shutdown, Belkin continues selling affected Wemo devices through Amazon and other retailers without disclosing the impending service termination.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Amazon.com: Wemo |url=https://www.amazon.com/stores/Wemo/page/E33F6EA2-93FC-48CD-8BF6-EE10D5398795 |archive-url=https://archive.ph/wip/TBvNl |archive-date=2025-07-13 |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Amazon.com}}</ref> As of July 2025, the Wemo Amazon store prominently displays compatibility claims with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other platforms that will stop functioning in six months.

<gallery mode="slideshow">
File:Stillsellingdimmer.jpg|Belkin light switch still for sale despite announced functionality loss<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Amazon.com: WeMo Smart Light Switch 2ND Gen |url=https://www.amazon.com/WeMo-Smart-Light-Switch-2ND/dp/B07RT8H9WH |archive-url=https://archive.ph/R4swk |archive-date=2025-07-13 |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Amazon.com}}</ref>
File:Amazonwemostoreworks.jpg|Belkin's Amazon store advertising platform compatibility despite planned termination<ref name=":0" />
</gallery>

==Consumer response and criticism==

===Immediate reaction===
Customer response was swift and negative, with users expressing feelings of abandonment and frustration over recent purchases becoming obsolete.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.belkin.wemoandroid&hl=en_US|title=Wemo - Apps on Google Play|work=Google Play|access-date=2025-10-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251026140346/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.belkin.wemoandroid|archive-date=2025-10-26|url-status=live}}</ref> The company provided only six months notice for a shutdown affecting 14 years of product sales.

===Technology community backlash===
Ars Technica's coverage criticized Belkin's move as reflecting an industry that ''"has grown too comfortable with bricking customers' stuff"'' without offering adequate recourse or transparency.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Scharon Harding |date=2025-07-12 |title=Belkin shows tech firms getting too comfortable with bricking customers' stuff |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/07/belkin-shows-tech-firms-getting-too-comfortable-with-bricking-customers-stuff/ |website=Ars Technica}}</ref>

Reddit discussions in r/WeMo revealed widespread consumer anger:
<blockquote>''"They just guaranteed I'll never buy Belkin again. Half the light switches in my house are going to need replacing."<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/WeMo/comments/1lwilvc/comment/n2en9py/ |title=Reddit user argonzo comment |website=Reddit}}</ref>''</blockquote>

<blockquote>''"I figured it's made by a trusted brand so it would be better than using no name Amazon junk. What a joke... Belkin is never getting a dollar from me again."<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/WeMo/comments/1lwilvc/comment/n2et52a/ |title=Reddit user ho_merjpimpson comment |website=Reddit}}</ref>''</blockquote>

Users called for firmware updates enabling local control and drew parallels to digital game preservation campaigns, with one noting: "Just like cloud based games & the Stop Killing Games campaign, there probably needs to be something similar for IoT."<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/WeMo/comments/1lwilvc/comment/n2esknt/ |title=Reddit user whitebean comment |website=Reddit}}</ref>

==Technical workarounds==
While technical solutions exist for maintaining some device functionality, they require a good amount of technical expertise that most consumers lack:
*'''Apple HomeKit''': Devices configured with HomeKit before the shutdown will continue working through Apple's ecosystem
*'''Home Assistant''': Open-source platform offering local control through UPnP device discovery
*'''Third-party firmware''': Projects like Tasmota enable complete device replacement, though requiring technical modification
*Pywemo: Supports joining/changing Wifi settings, and local control via Wemo's local API (which is not documented by Belkin). https://github.com/pywemo/pywemo

The existence of these workarounds demonstrates that the shutdown represents a business decision rather than technical necessity, as devices can continue functioning locally without cloud services.

==Industry context==
The Wemo shutdown represents part of a broader pattern of IoT device abandonment affecting millions of devices globally. Similar shutdowns include:
*Google Cloud IoT Core termination (2023)
*Amazon Web Services IoT service discontinuations (2024–2026)
*Complete collapse of Insteon's smart home system (2022), affecting 1.3 million customers<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shameful: Insteon looks dead—just like its users’ smart homes - Ars Technica |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/04/shameful-insteon-looks-dead-just-like-its-users-smart-homes/ |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Shameful: Insteon looks dead—just like its users’ smart homes - Ars Technica}}</ref>

Academic research has identified this phenomenon as ''"regulation by bricking"''<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Tusikov |first=Natasha |date=2019-06-18 |title=Regulation through “bricking”: private ordering in the “Internet of Things” |url=http://policyreview.info/articles/analysis/regulation-through-bricking-private-ordering-internet-things |journal=Internet Policy Review |volume=8 |issue=2 |doi=10.14763/2019.2.1405 |access-date=2025-07-13}}</ref>'','' a form of corporate control where manufacturers retain the ability to remotely disable devices after purchase through licensing agreements and cloud service dependencies.

==Consumer protection and regulatory response==
The incident shows the gaps in consumer protection frameworks for software-dependent devices. Current warranty laws assume hardware failure rather than service termination, creating uncertainty about whether cloud service shutdowns count as defective products.

Consumer advocacy organizations, led by Consumer Reports, have mobilized against IoT device abandonment practices, coining the term ''"software tethering"'' to describe manufacturer control over post-purchase device functionality.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-13 |title=Consumer Reports, U.S. PIRG, and 15 other groups call on FTC to create clear guidance for ‘software tethering’ |url=https://advocacy.consumerreports.org/research/group-letter-ftc-software-tethering/ |access-date=2025-07-13 |website=Consumer Reports Advocacy}}</ref> The coalition has petitioned the FTC to address these practices and establish mandatory disclosure requirements for device support timelines.

==See also==
*[[Software tethering]]
*[[Planned obsolescence]]
*[[Right to repair]]
*[[IoT device abandonment]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Belkin]]
[[Category:Internet of Things]]
[[Category:Planned obsolescence]]
[[Category:Smart home devices]]
[[Category:Ongoing events]]

Bose SoundTouch end of life treatment

2025-12-22T22:42:53Z

Neight: Added page categories for discoverability

{{OngoingEvent}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Bose
|StartDate=2025-10-09
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Bose SoundTouch
|Product=Bose SoundTouch
|ArticleType=Incident
|Type=Cloud lockout • Service Termination • Planned Obsolesence • Abandonware
|Description=Bose ends cloud support for SoundTouch products, removing smart functionality with no migration path to current ecosystem
}}
In October 2025, [[Bose|Bose Corporation]] announced that it would end cloud support for its entire SoundTouch product line on February 18, 2026. The decision sparked widespread consumer backlash as owners of the smart multiroom audio systems, sold between 2013 and 2020, would lose streaming services, app control, and multiroom functionality that formed the products' core value proposition.

==Background==
Bose launched the SoundTouch line in 2013 as premium wireless speakers with cloud-based multiroom audio capabilities.<ref name="techspot">{{cite web |author=Jacobs |first=Skye |date=12 October 2025 |title=Bose's SoundTouch shutdown leaves connected speakers less "smart" |url=https://www.techspot.com/news/109830-bose-soundtouch-shutdown-leaves-connected-speakers-less-smart.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/Va6aF |archive-date=26 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |website=Techspot |publisher=TechSpot}}</ref> The original lineup included three speakers priced between $399 and $699. By 2015, Bose had expanded the range to include models starting at $200 and high-end home theater systems exceeding $1,000.

The SoundTouch platform offered Wi-Fi streaming from services including [[Spotify]], TuneIn, Pandora, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio, along with synchronized multiroom playback controlled through a mobile app. In 2018, Bose launched its newer Bose Music app for a new product line, which was not designed to support SoundTouch devices.

In 2020, Bose discontinued SoundTouch product sales but stated it would "support both the SoundTouch app and product software for the foreseeable future."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/smart_home/soundtouch_family.html |title=SoundTouch speakers |publisher=Bose|access-date=2025-10-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126202244/https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/smart_home/soundtouch_family.html|archive-date=2020-11-26|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Incident==
On October 9, 2025, Bose announced it would discontinue cloud support for all SoundTouch products effective February 18, 2026.<ref name="bose">{{cite web |title=SoundTouch Cloud Service Ending |url=https://www.bose.com/soundtouch-end-of-life |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251026223447/https://www.bose.com/soundtouch-end-of-life |archive-date=26 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |publisher=Bose}}</ref> The announcement gave customers 129 days notice before the shutdown.

===Affected products===
All SoundTouch products are affected, including:

*Standalone speakers: SoundTouch 10, 20 Series II and III, 30 Series II and III, and SoundTouch Portable
*Soundbars: SoundTouch 300
*Home theater systems: SoundTouch 120, 130, CineMate 120, 130, 220, 520
*Lifestyle systems: Models 135, 235, 525, 535, 550, 600, and 650
*Accessories: SoundTouch wireless adapter, Wave SoundTouch wireless pedestal, SoundTouch SA-5 amplifier

===Lost functionality===
After February 18, 2026, affected devices will lose:

*All streaming service integrations via the SoundTouch app
*Multiroom audio synchronization
*App-based control from smartphones and tablets
*Preset management and programming
*Wi-Fi music streaming from personal libraries
*Security updates and firmware patches

Bluetooth, AUX, and HDMI inputs are expected to continue functioning, though Bose stated it "cannot guarantee long-term performance."<ref name="register">{{cite web |author=Speed |first=Richard |date=13 October 2025 |title=Bose kills SoundTouch: Smart speakers go dumb in Feb |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/10/13/bose_reminds_users_that_nothing/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/BQVdO |archive-date=26 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |website=The Register |publisher=The Register}}</ref> The status of AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect has not been confirmed by Bose.

==Bose's response==
Bose justified the discontinuation by citing technical limitations and infrastructure costs. The company stated that SoundTouch systems have been "stretched to their technical limits in terms of memory and processing power" and that maintaining "the performance and security our customers expect" is no longer possible.<ref name="techbook">{{cite web |author=Szymanski |first=Przemyslaw |date=13 October 2025 |title=Bose Discontinues Support for Popular Speakers and Soundbars |url=https://www.techbook-magazine.com/home-entertainment/bose-discontinues-support-for-popular-speakers-and-soundbars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251026224505/https://www.techbook-magazine.com/home-entertainment/bose-discontinues-support-for-popular-speakers-and-soundbars |archive-date=26 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |publisher=TECHBOOK Magazine}}</ref>

Bose is offering affected customers up to $200 in trade-in credit depending on model and condition, along with a 25% discount on new purchases. The company sent personalized apologies to some high-profile complainants, with customer Richard Lomas receiving an email acknowledging that current products "may not replicate the exact SoundTouch experience."<ref name="bloomberg">{{cite web |author=Welch |first=Chris |date=10 October 2025 |title=Bose Angers Customers By Ending Cloud Streaming for Old Speakers |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-10-10/bose-angers-customers-by-ending-cloud-streaming-for-old-speakers |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/9bQWJ |archive-date=10 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |publisher=Bloomberg}}</ref>

The company stated it remains "committed to creating new listening experiences for our customers built on modern technologies" but confirmed it will not integrate SoundTouch products into the Bose Music app or provide any replacement platform.

==Consumer response==
The announcement generated immediate negative reaction across multiple platforms. On Reddit's r/bose forum, users posted hundreds of angry responses. One customer wrote: "So basically they will become expensive bricks in 6 months. I'm fuming. I have like $3k invested in these. Been Bose customer for over 40 years. Will never buy from them again."<ref name="register" />

A Change.org petition was started, urging Bose to maintain SoundTouch support and rapidly gaining over 1000 signatures. It characterized the decision as "planned obsolescence" that "devalues considerable financial investments" and called Bose's offered compensation "largely a consolation."<ref name="changeorg">{{cite web |url=https://www.change.org/p/urge-bose-to-maintain-soundtouch-cloud-support |title=Urge Bose to maintain SoundTouch cloud support |publisher=Change.org |date=9 October 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025}}</ref>

Bloomberg reported on customer Richard Lomas, whose aunt and uncle in their 80s rely on SoundTouch presets for entertainment at their assisted living facility. Lomas stated the elderly relatives have dementia and cannot use Bluetooth or AirPlay alternatives. He called the decision a "red line" and said he owns over $1,000 in Bose equipment but would never purchase from the company again.<ref name="bloomberg" />

Multiple users requested that Bose release the SoundTouch SDK as open-source software to allow community maintenance of support. Bose has not responded to these requests.<ref name="hackaday">{{cite web |author=Posh |first=Maya |date=11 October 2025 |title=Bose SoundTouch Smart WiFi Speakers Are About To Go Dumb |url=https://hackaday.com/2025/10/11/bose-soundtouch-smart-wifi-speakers-are-about-to-go-dumb/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251012144003/https://hackaday.com/2025/10/11/bose-soundtouch-smart-wifi-speakers-are-about-to-go-dumb/ |archive-date=12 Oct 2025 |access-date=16 October 2025 |publisher=Hackaday}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://bose.fandom.com/wiki/SoundTouch_speakers "SoundTouch speakers" on bose.fandom.com]

[[Category:Bose]]
[[Category:Ongoing events]]
[[Category:Service cancellation]]
[[Category:Planned obsolescence]]

List of Google products

2025-12-16T16:50:26Z

Neight: /* Operating Systems and Devices: */

The following is a non-exhaustive list of products, services and software provided by [[Google]]. The list includes products that have been announced, are in production or discontinued. Discontinued products are marked in <s>strikethrough</s>.

===Search and Information:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Arts_&_Culture|Google Arts & Culture]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Books|Google Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Earth|Google Earth]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Flights|Google Flights]]
*[[Google Hotels]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Images|Google Images]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Maps|Google Maps]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_News|Google News]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Scholar|Google Scholar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Search|Google Search]]

===Communication and Collaboration:===

*[[wikipedia:Gmail|Gmail]]
*[[wikipedia:Google+|<s>Google+</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Calendar|Google Calendar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Chat|Google Chat]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Docs|Google Docs]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Drive|Google Drive]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Forms|Google Forms]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Groups|Google Groups]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Meet|Google Meet]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sheets|Google Sheets]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sites|Google Sites]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Slides|Google Slides]]

===Entertainment:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Play|Google Play]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Books|Google Play Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Games|Google Play Games]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Music|<s>Google Play Music</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_TV_(service)|Google TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Stadia|<s>Stadia</s>]]
*[[YouTube]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Kids|Youtube Kids]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Music|YouTube Music]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_TV|YouTube TV]]

===Operating Systems and Devices:===

*[[Android]]
*[https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_Automotive Android Auto]
*[[wikipedia:Android_TV|Android TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Chromecast|<s>Chromecast</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:ChromeOS|ChromeOS]]
*[[wikipedia:Fitbit|Fitbit Products]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Daydream|<s>Google Daydream</s>]] (VR phone adapter)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nest|Google Nest Products]] (speakers, displays, thermostats, cameras)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nexus|<s>Google Nexus Smartphones</s>]]
*[[Google Pixel|Google Pixel Products]] (earbuds, laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets)
*[[Google Chromebook]] (laptop)
*[[Google TV Streamer]]
*[[Wikipedia:Wear OS|Wear OS]]

===Advertising and Business:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Ads|Google Ads]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AdSense|Google AdSense]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Analytics|Google Analytics]]
*[[Google Business Profile]] (formerly Google My Business)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud Platform]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Workspace|Google Workspace]] (includes Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet, etc.)
*[[reCAPTCHA]]

====AI and Research:====

*[[Google Gemini|Gemini]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AI|Google AI]]
*[[wikipedia:TensorFlow|TensorFlow]]

===Other Services and Products:===

*[[Google Chrome]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Domains|Google Domains]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fi_Wireless|Google Fi Wireless]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fonts|Google Fonts]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_One|Google One]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Pay_(payment_method)|Google Pay]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Photos|Google Photos]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Translate|Google Translate]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Wallet|Google Wallet]]
[[Category:Google]]
[[Category:Lists]]

List of Google products

2025-12-16T16:48:01Z

Neight: /* Operating Systems and Devices: */

The following is a non-exhaustive list of products, services and software provided by [[Google]]. The list includes products that have been announced, are in production or discontinued. Discontinued products are marked in <s>strikethrough</s>.

===Search and Information:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Arts_&_Culture|Google Arts & Culture]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Books|Google Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Earth|Google Earth]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Flights|Google Flights]]
*[[Google Hotels]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Images|Google Images]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Maps|Google Maps]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_News|Google News]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Scholar|Google Scholar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Search|Google Search]]

===Communication and Collaboration:===

*[[wikipedia:Gmail|Gmail]]
*[[wikipedia:Google+|<s>Google+</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Calendar|Google Calendar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Chat|Google Chat]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Docs|Google Docs]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Drive|Google Drive]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Forms|Google Forms]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Groups|Google Groups]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Meet|Google Meet]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sheets|Google Sheets]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sites|Google Sites]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Slides|Google Slides]]

===Entertainment:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Play|Google Play]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Books|Google Play Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Games|Google Play Games]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Music|<s>Google Play Music</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_TV_(service)|Google TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Stadia|<s>Stadia</s>]]
*[[YouTube]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Kids|Youtube Kids]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Music|YouTube Music]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_TV|YouTube TV]]

===Operating Systems and Devices:===

*[[Android]]
*[https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_Automotive Android Auto]
*[[wikipedia:Android_TV|Android TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Chromecast|<s>Chromecast</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:ChromeOS|ChromeOS]]
*[[wikipedia:Fitbit|Fitbit Products]]
*<s>[[Google Daydream]]</s> (VR phone adapter)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nest|Google Nest Products]] (speakers, displays, thermostats, cameras)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nexus|<s>Google Nexus Smartphones</s>]]
*[[Google Pixel|Google Pixel Products]] (earbuds, laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets)
*[[Google Chromebook]] (laptop)
*[[Google TV Streamer]]
*[[Wikipedia:Wear OS|Wear OS]]

===Advertising and Business:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Ads|Google Ads]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AdSense|Google AdSense]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Analytics|Google Analytics]]
*[[Google Business Profile]] (formerly Google My Business)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud Platform]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Workspace|Google Workspace]] (includes Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet, etc.)
*[[reCAPTCHA]]

====AI and Research:====

*[[Google Gemini|Gemini]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AI|Google AI]]
*[[wikipedia:TensorFlow|TensorFlow]]

===Other Services and Products:===

*[[Google Chrome]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Domains|Google Domains]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fi_Wireless|Google Fi Wireless]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fonts|Google Fonts]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_One|Google One]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Pay_(payment_method)|Google Pay]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Photos|Google Photos]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Translate|Google Translate]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Wallet|Google Wallet]]
[[Category:Google]]
[[Category:Lists]]

List of Google products

2025-12-15T04:48:13Z

Neight: Adding Google Daydream, a discontinued hardware device. On my phone, but can create a page for the product in the future

The following is a non-exhaustive list of products, services and software provided by [[Google]]. The list includes products that have been announced, are in production or discontinued. Discontinued products are marked in <s>strikethrough</s>.

===Search and Information:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Arts_&_Culture|Google Arts & Culture]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Books|Google Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Earth|Google Earth]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Flights|Google Flights]]
*[[Google Hotels]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Images|Google Images]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Maps|Google Maps]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_News|Google News]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Scholar|Google Scholar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Search|Google Search]]

===Communication and Collaboration:===

*[[wikipedia:Gmail|Gmail]]
*[[wikipedia:Google+|<s>Google+</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Calendar|Google Calendar]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Chat|Google Chat]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Docs|Google Docs]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Drive|Google Drive]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Forms|Google Forms]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Groups|Google Groups]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Meet|Google Meet]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sheets|Google Sheets]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Sites|Google Sites]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Slides|Google Slides]]

===Entertainment:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Play|Google Play]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Books|Google Play Books]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Games|Google Play Games]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Music|<s>Google Play Music</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_TV_(service)|Google TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Stadia|<s>Stadia</s>]]
*[[YouTube]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Kids|Youtube Kids]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_Music|YouTube Music]]
*[[wikipedia:YouTube_TV|YouTube TV]]

===Operating Systems and Devices:===

*[[Android]]
*[https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_Automotive Android Auto]
*[[wikipedia:Android_TV|Android TV]]
*[[wikipedia:Chromecast|<s>Chromecast</s>]]
*[[wikipedia:ChromeOS|ChromeOS]]
*[[wikipedia:Fitbit|Fitbit Products]]
*<s>Google Daydream</s> (VR phone adapter)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nest|Google Nest Products]] (speakers, displays, thermostats, cameras)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Nexus|<s>Google Nexus Smartphones</s>]]
*[[Google Pixel|Google Pixel Products]] (earbuds, laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets)
*[[Google Chromebook]] (laptop)
*[[Google TV Streamer]]
*[[Wikipedia:Wear OS|Wear OS]]

===Advertising and Business:===

*[[wikipedia:Google_Ads|Google Ads]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AdSense|Google AdSense]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Analytics|Google Analytics]]
*[[Google Business Profile]] (formerly Google My Business)
*[[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud Platform]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Workspace|Google Workspace]] (includes Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet, etc.)
*[[reCAPTCHA]]

====AI and Research:====

*[[Google Gemini|Gemini]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_AI|Google AI]]
*[[wikipedia:TensorFlow|TensorFlow]]

===Other Services and Products:===

*[[Google Chrome]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Domains|Google Domains]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fi_Wireless|Google Fi Wireless]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Fonts|Google Fonts]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_One|Google One]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Pay_(payment_method)|Google Pay]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Photos|Google Photos]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Translate|Google Translate]]
*[[wikipedia:Google_Wallet|Google Wallet]]
[[Category:Google]]
[[Category:Lists]]