Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Fairphone 5 bricked by faulty Android 15 update

2026-04-06T21:47:12Z

Reform: Added an update to the situation, removed sections that were repetitive, compressed information, reordered for legibility, increased NPOV, and addressed article verifiability concerns by removing indignation parts & adding citation needed markers

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Needs a lot more citations}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Fairphone, Cordon Group
|StartDate=2023
|Status=Active
|Product=Fairphone 5
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Repairability
|Description=Android 15 update reportedly bricked some Fairphone 5 devices with faulty fingerprint sensors; restricted parts sales and EDL access limited self-repair options.
}}
==Background==
The Fairphone 5 is a modular smartphone produced by [[Fairphone]], a Dutch company that markets its devices as sustainable, repairable, and ethically sourced, with long-term software support.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}} In July 2025, some Fairphone 5 users reported their devices no longer being able to start up after they updated to Android 15.<ref name=":0" />

==Incident==
Following the Android 15 update, users of devices with broken fingerprint sensors reported getting stuck on the boot animation and could not complete startup.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=Jul 2025 |title=FP5 not booting (hard bricked) after update to Android 15 (VT28.C.042), in my case fingerprint sensor is working |url=https://forum.fairphone.com/t/fp5-not-booting-hard-bricked-after-update-to-android-15-vt28-c-042-in-my-case-fingerprint-sensor-is-working/123159 |url-status=live |website=Fairphone Community Forum}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=5 Oct 2025 |title=Software Update: FP5.VT2E.C.059.20250908 |url=https://forum.fairphone.com/t/software-update-fp5-vt2e-c-059-20250908/126404 |access-date=6 Apr 2026 |website=Fairphone Community Forum}}</ref> There were unsuccessful attempts from users to recover affected devices through standard troubleshooting methods, which includes forced reboots and attempts to downgrade firmware.<ref name=":0" />

==Fairphone's response==
<blockquote>Hi everyone,

Thanks for reporting this and for your patience as we looked into it.

We’ve now identified the root cause of the issue: it only affects Fairphone 5 devices with '''broken fingerprint sensors'''. Android 15 introduces stricter hardware checks during boot, and if the fingerprint sensor is faulty, the phone is unable to start.

'''The good news is that the issue is reversible''':

You can safely '''downgrade back to Android 14 without losing data''' by following a specific set of steps.

If your device is frozen on the boot animation:

#To force a reboot, press and hold the power button for around 15 seconds.
#If the device returns to the boot screen, continue to repeat this process until it fully boots into Android (can be up to 7-8 times)

'''Edit 2 by yvmuell''' as it was insisted thats could be important (I havent faced the issue myself so dont know)<blockquote>Hello from Germany. I’ve finally managed to do it after 20 reboots. My problem was that I waited too long. I only restarted as soon as the “I” was displayed.

Try this: Hold down the on/off switch until the screen goes black. As soon as the word “Fairphone” appears in green and the Android logo below it, hold down the on/off switch until the screen goes black again. You do this about 7-8 times. At some point I was suddenly back in.

Good luck!

''Translated with DeepL.com (free version)''</blockquote>If you need further assistance, please reach out to our Customer Support team: <nowiki>https://support.fairphone.com</nowiki>.

From there, you have two options:

*'''Send your phone in for repair''' (to replace the fingerprint sensor) this will fully resolve the issue and allow you to update to Android 15.
*

'''Edit by yvmuell:'''<blockquote>Thanks for your question!

Please follow this trouble shooting tool > '''Fairphone 5 > Fairphone 5 only: my device is stuck after Android 15 update'''

You will receive an automated email then our customer support team will reach out within a few days and will guide you and share the instructions and shipping label.

Please be mindful to follow the steps, reply accurately, and read all the provided text and questions carefully. We want to avoid incorrect responses, as they will slow down the resolution of each request, even for people affected by other issues. Thanks a lot </blockquote>

*'''Wait for a software workaround''' our partners are currently exploring a patch that would allow Android 15 to boot even if the fingerprint sensor is broken. Please note: if this patch becomes available, the fingerprint sensor itself will still not function, but you’ll be able to use the rest of the OS.

We’re doing everything we can to support you now and will keep you updated as soon as there’s progress on the software workaround.

If you suspect that your root cause is not fingerprint sensor related, we encourage you to reach out to our customer support team.

Thanks again for your understanding and support.

'''Edit 3 by yvmuell:'''<blockquote>Hi everyone,

Thank you for your patience and for sharing your experiences regarding the FP5 boot issue following the Android 15 update.

'''What we’ve discovered'''

From our diagnostics, it seems that:

*In some cases, the '''fingerprint sensor was working intermittently''', which allowed the update to Android 15 to complete and the phone to boot at least once.
*If the fingerprint sensor then stopped working afterward, the device is recognized as having successfully installed and started Android 15.
*This means a rollback to Android 14 is '''no longer possible''' once Android 15 has been initialized.
'''What this means for affected devices'''

For devices in this situation:

*'''Repair is the only option''' if the phone can no longer boot.
*Even if we release a future fix, users whose phones are already stuck on A15 without booting will '''not''' be able to simply install it as a normal update.
*The only ways to apply the fix will be either:
*#Sending the device for repair.
*#Manually installing the update.

Both options require a '''factory reset''' and will result in '''data loss'''.

'''Next steps'''

*Our teams are actively working on a long-term solution so this issue won’t recur in future updates.
*We’re monitoring this thread closely and forwarding all details you share to our internal teams.

We know this is not the experience you expect or that we want to deliver, and we’re truly sorry for the frustration it has caused. Your reports here are vital to helping us resolve the issue and prevent similar cases in the future.

Thank you again for your support and for being part of the Fairphone community.</blockquote>Edit 4<blockquote>Hi everyone,

Thanks for your patience while we continue to address the booting issue some of you have faced after updating to Android 15.

The problem is linked to a faulty fingerprint sensor. During the staged rollout, we closely monitored reports and confirmed that the real underlying issue was hardware-related. Because of this, we have now put a dedicated processes in place:

Faster identification: our Customer Support agents are trained to recognize this case quickly.

Chatbot support: our website chatbot now collects the necessary information, including address, to speed up the repair process.

Advanced replacements: we’ve also introduced an advanced replacement process for anyone whose device is affected, so they don’t have to wait for a full repair cycle.

In parallel, we have been working with our partner T2M on a software fix. We need to ensure that there are no unintended impacts, so this is taking some time. We will keep you updated on the progress and ability to release a fix.

This way, we’re addressing both the immediate impact (through faster repair and replacement processes) and the longer-term solution (through the software update).

I will post on the forum as soon as I know more.

Thanks for your understanding

Sarah</blockquote>Edit 5

Update on this matter:

There is a new software update for FP5. SPL: 5.09.2025

A bit unusually released on Sunday.

FP5.VT2E.C.059 Release date: 05 October 2025

Android version: 15

Security patch level: September 2025

Changes:

* Fixed an issue that prevented devices with a malfunctioning fingerprint sensor from booting into Android 15.
* Security patch level.

Important patch for those suffering from a malfunctioning fingerprint<ref name=":1" /><blockquote>Hi all, today I noticed that Android 15 was rolled out to the FP5. I downloaded and updated the Phone. After the update it started, first with a Green “fairphone” text. After that the whole background became green and there was a light green text “fairphone”. I assume that is the boot animation, but after the text collapsed into only a green l in the middle of the screen nothing is working. I cannot do anything with it. The only thing the phone can do is: Enter fastboot (after foceshutdown…</blockquote>Fingers crossed it will work out smoothly for those concerned.

PS. The installation went smoothly</blockquote>

On 5th of October 2025, Fairphone released a patch that fixes the Android 15 booting issue affecting devices with broken fingerprint sensors.<ref name=":1" /> Before this patch, they directed users to its authorized repair partner, Cordon Group. This is because the repair required a Qualcomm EDL firehose file, and Fairphone does not publicly distribute it.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}

===Responses before the patch===

* A user could replace the fingerprint sensor module, but that may not be available for individual retail purchase in all regions depending on company policy and stock availability.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}

* Advanced recovery via Qualcomm Emergency Download (EDL) mode requires a device/soc-specific firehose programmer file is a functional solution, but only an authorized Fairphone repair partner can do the repair.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}
* There was an OEM flashing command <code>fastboot oem allow-flashing</code> but is no longer accessible{{Clarify|when}}.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}

==Consumer response==
Some consumers have raised concerns that restricting access to firmware recovery tools and certain replacement components conflicts with Fairphone’s repairability and sustainability positioning.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}} Criticisms include:
*The required device/soc-specific firehose programmer file for the recovery is not publicly distributed, as it's only available to a Fairphone authorized repair partner. As a result, affected devices cannot be repaired without authorized service intervention, even if the hardware is otherwise functional.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}
*The issue demonstrates dependence on a single authorized service provider for firmware restoration.
*The fingerprint sensor module is not consistently available for direct consumer purchase in all regions.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}
*Environmental impact of shipping devices internationally for minor hardware repairs raised sustainability concerns.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}
*The incident has been referenced in broader discussions about right-to-repair policy, firmware control, and manufacturer-imposed repair limitations.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}

*Because Fairphone is marketed as fully modular and repairable, some users have characterized the incident as an example of “repairability-washing”, because it describes a situation where the key repair pathways remain restricted for devices presumed repairable through its marketing.{{Citation needed|date=6 Apr 2026}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Fairphone]]
[[Category:2023 incidents]]

Monsanto

2026-04-06T20:29:14Z

Reform: Grammar fix

{{StubNotice}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1901
|Industry=Agriculture, Biotechnology, Chemicals
|Logo=Monsanto logo.png
|ParentCompany=Bayer
|Type=Subsidiary
|Description=An agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology company known for Roundup.
|Website=https://www.monsanto.com/, https://www.bayer.com/
}}

'''Monsanto''' is an agricultural chemical and biotechnology corporation founded in 1901 that was acquired by Bayer AG in June 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Jun 2018 |title=Bayer closes Monsanto acquisition |url=https://www.bayer.com/media/en-us/bayer-closes-monsanto-acquisition/ |website=Bayer Global |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251124194422/https://www.bayer.com/media/en-us/bayer-closes-monsanto-acquisition/ |archive-date=24 Nov 2025}}</ref>

==Consumer-impact summary==
Monsanto has been reported to have aggressive legal maneuvering, poor treatment of farmers, sketchy business practices, and inaction regarding the carcinogenicity of their herbicide Roundup.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gillam |first=Carey |date=20 Apr 2020 |title=EPA faces court over backing of Monsanto's controversial crop system |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/20/epa-faces-court-over-backing-of-monsantos-controversial-crop-system |website=The Guardian}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Glenna |first=Leland |last2=Bruce |first2=Analena |date=Sep 2021 |title=Suborning science for profit: Monsanto, glyphosate, and private science research misconduct |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048733321000925 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240713132204/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048733321000925 |archive-date=13 Jul 2024 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref>

===Carcinogenic herbicides concerns===
There have been many accusations of clients developing [[wikipedia:Non-Hodgkin_lymphoma|non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)]] from Monsanto products, most commonly with their premier herbicide "Roundup" which contains the active ingredient glyphosate.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yan |first=Holly |date=2018-08-11 |title=Jurors give $289 million to a man they say got cancer from Monsanto’s Roundup weedkiller |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2018/08/10/health/monsanto-johnson-trial-verdict/index.html |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=CNN Health |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250810174800/https://edition.cnn.com/2018/08/10/health/monsanto-johnson-trial-verdict/index.html |archive-date=10 Aug 2025}}</ref> Despite the many lawsuits faced by Monsanto regarding cancer diagnosis, it still remains a debated topic, with the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring Roundup as probably carcinogenic in 2015, while following studies told otherwise.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dixon |first=Emily |date=15 Feb 2019 |title=Common weed killer glyphosate increases cancer risk by 41%, study says |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/14/health/us-glyphosate-cancer-study-scli-intl/index.html |website=CNN Health |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260213213745/https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/14/health/us-glyphosate-cancer-study-scli-intl/index.html |archive-date=13 Feb 2026}}</ref>

===Vietnam war involvement with "Agent Orange"===
During the Vietnam War, Monsanto developed and produced large quantities of "Agent Orange", a powerful herbicide that the American military used to kill off thousands of acres of jungle and farmland in Vietnam. This chemical attack lead to increased cases of birth defects, diabetes and cancer among the native population even years after the war ended.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ghosal |first=Aniruddha |last2=Dinh |first2=Hau |date=2025-04-30 |title=The Vietnam War ended 50 years ago, but the battle with Agent Orange continues |url=https://apnews.com/article/vietnam-war-anniversary-agent-orange-0829caefe48cc11fb88ab27982da922b |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=AP News |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251102132152/https://apnews.com/article/vietnam-war-anniversary-agent-orange-0829caefe48cc11fb88ab27982da922b |archive-date=2 Nov 2025}}</ref> Furthermore, the ecological impact of these attacks have often been considered ecocide, with over 7,000,000 acres of rainforest being poisoned. This lead to a stark drop in bio-diversity in affected areas.{{Citation needed}}
==Incidents==
===Kemner v. Monsanto===
The longest civil jury trial in American history.It ran from 1984 to 1987 with Monsanto as the defendant. The plaintiffs claimed that they had been poisoned by the chemical dioxin.{{Citation needed}}

===Alachlor lawsuits===
Alachlor is a type of herbicide that has now been widely banned outside of the US. Sold by Monsanto under the name Lasso, poisoned a man in France.{{Citation needed}}

===Aggressive legal action against farmers===
Since 2004, over 90 lawsuits have occurred with farmers as the accused and Monsanto as the plaintiff. Most of these lawsuits have occurred around issues with seed patents.{{Citation needed}}
==See also==

*[[John Deere]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Jailbreak

2026-04-04T14:43:23Z

Reform: Added wikipedia link to 'Operating system' for clarity

{{Stub}}
'''[[wikipedia:Privilege_escalation#Jailbreaking|Jailbreaking]]''' consists of removing restrictions (or "locks") in order to be able to make changes to a piece of technology (e.g. running modified software), in a way that is unintended by the company or person that produced it. The term is more often used when referring to Apple/iOS devices than Android devices.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Mar 2026 |title=jailbreak |url=https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/jailbreak |url-status=live |access-date=12 March 2026 |website=Cambridge Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=JAILBREAK Definition & Meaning {{!}} Dictionary.com |url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/jailbreak |url-status=live}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251111213840/https://www.dictionary.com/browse/jailbreak Archived])</ref>

When it comes to Android, it is more often referred to as '''[[wikipedia:Rooting_(Android)|rooting]]'''. It consists of gaining access to the same permissions as the [[wikipedia:Superuser|superuser]] account of the system, and does not make changes to the hardware.{{Citation needed|date=12 Mar 2026}}

==Reasons to jailbreak==

Jailbreaking enables users to install unsigned applications and tweak functionality of the {{Wplink|Operating system|OS}}, being able to have complete control of the owned device.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-24 |title=FAQ {{!}} iOS Guide |url=https://ios.cfw.guide/faq/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251226030710/https://ios.cfw.guide/faq/ |archive-date=2025-12-26 |access-date=2026-01-11 |website=cfw}}</ref>

==Legality==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!
!Country
!Legal?
!Details and Source
|-
|🇩🇪
|Germany
|Yes
|Legal if you are not downloading pirated software.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aschermann |first=Tim |date=2018-09-07 |title=iPhone/iPad Jailbreak - legal oder illegal? |url=https://praxistipps.chip.de/iphoneipad-jailbreak-legal-oder-illegal_46467 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250811232138/https://praxistipps.chip.de/iphoneipad-jailbreak-legal-oder-illegal_46467 |archive-date=2025-08-11 |access-date=2025-08-29 |website=CHIP}}</ref>
|-
|🇵🇱
|Poland
|Yes
|Legal if you are not downloading pirated software<ref>{{Cite web |last=Różańska |first=Joanna |date=2022-12-20 |title=Co to jest jailbreak? |url=https://nordvpn.com/pl/blog/co-to-jest-jailbreak/#czy-jailbreak-jest-legalny |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-11 |website=NordVPN}}</ref>
|-
|🇺🇸
|United States of America
|Yes
|Jailbreaking was declared exempt from the[[Digital Millennium Copyright Act | DMCA]] in 2010<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kravets |first=David |date=July 26, 2010 |title=U.S. Declares iPhone Jailbreaking Legal, Over Apple’s Objections |url=https://www.wired.com/2010/07/feds-ok-iphone-jailbreaking/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251231125132/https://www.wired.com/2010/07/feds-ok-iphone-jailbreaking/ |archive-date=2025-12-31 |access-date=2026-01-11 |work=WIRED}}</ref>
|-
|🇬🇧
|United Kingdom
|Yes
|Legal if you are not downloading pirated software.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Elmore |first=John |date=2025-01-27 |title=Unlocking the Truth: Is Jailbreaking Legal in the UK? |url=https://thetechylife.com/is-jailbreaking-legal-uk/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260111223720/https://thetechylife.com/is-jailbreaking-legal-uk/ |archive-date=2026-01-11 |access-date=2026-01-11 |website=TheTechyLife}}</ref>
|}

==Further reading==

*[[Apps deliberately refusing to work on modded devices]]
*[[Battery firmware lockout]]
*[[Phones that do not allow bootloader unlock]]
*[[Sideloading]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Common terms]]

AirPods

2026-04-04T14:39:26Z

Reform: Wording fix

{{StubNotice}}
{{Cleanup}}
{{ProductLineCargo
| ReleaseYear = 2016-12-13
| Website = https://apple.com/airpods
| Logo = AirPods logo.svg
|ArticleType=ProductLine
|Category=Wireless earbuds
|Company=Apple
|Description= AirPods are wireless earbuds designed by Apple.
|InProduction=Yes}}

'''AirPods''' are wireless earbuds designed by [[Apple]]. They first debuted on September 07, 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and were released on December 13, 2016.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Sep 2016 |title=Apple reinvents the wireless headphone with AirPods |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044455/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ |archive-date=2026-01-04 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>

==Consumer impact summary==

===Repairability===

====Obsolescense====
AirPods are designed in a way that makes them unrepairable, leading to customers having to buy a new pair after a few years of use. Apple can replace them but will not repair them or help you do it yourself.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Dalvin |date=20 Apr 2023 |title=Apple Doesn’t Repair AirPods. Here’s Why. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE |archive-date=2026-02-02 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Youtube |publisher=Wall Street Journal}}</ref> According to an expert from iFixit:<blockquote>If you want to take this apart, non-destructively, to replace the batteries, as far as I know, that's impossible.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>The rechargeable batteries in AirPods can experience fast-tracked degradation after a certain number of battery cycles,<ref name=":1" /> with two-year-old sets lasting for less than half of the advertised five hours.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Elalj |first=Simo |date=2024-04-16 |title=How Long Do AirPods Last? (Battery & Lifespan) |url=https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723215441/https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan |archive-date=2025-07-23 |access-date=2026-02-20 |website=RefurbMe}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Apple Service and Repair for AirPods |url=https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260220050147/https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service |archive-date=2026-02-20 |access-date=2026-02-20 |website=Apple}}</ref>

====Replacement over repair====
[[File:Airpods-pro-3-carepricecomparison.png|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.|thumb|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]
Apple has a dedicated portal to purchase "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and replacements individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed|reason=Add 3rd party citation|date=4 Apr 2026}}

===Freedom===

====Proprietary standards====
Up until September 22, 2023, Apple used their proprietary Lightning connector on the AirPods' charging case, which forced the consumer to purchase Apple-licensed chargers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Borresen |first=Jennifer |date=22 Sep 2023 |title=iPhone 15 pro uses USB-C charger: An exploration of how Apple got here |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044745/https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ |archive-date=2026-01-04 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=USA Today}}</ref>

====Degraded operating system choice====
The [[Software-gating|software-gated]] features that AirPods are marketed with are mode to only work with Apple's [[wikipedia:Operating_system|operating systems]], resulting in device's capabilities that are on par with basic wireless headphones when paired with non-Apple devices.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Christian |date=2025-03-26 |title=Don't use AirPods with Android |url=https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250407044828/https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ |archive-date=2025-04-07 |access-date=2026-01-05 |website=SOUNDGUYS}}</ref> The software-gated features include:

*Spatial audio
*The ear tip fit test
*Auto EQ
*Control customization
*Find my earbuds
*Automatic device switching
*Conversation boost
*Battery life status indicator
*Automatic ear detection<ref name=":4" />

However there have been projects attempting to regain marketed features of AirPods with non-Apple products, such as LibrePods.<ref>https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251220145417/https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods Archived])</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hardwick |first=Tim |date=2025-11-21 |title=This Free App Unlocks AirPods Features on Android Devices |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218044102/https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2025|access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MacRumors}}</ref>

==Incidents==
The following is a list of major incidents involving the Apple AirPods line of headphones.

===AirPods Pro sound issues (''2020'')===
The "Rattlegate" issue, which is officially known as the AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues, was reportedly frustrating for early AirPods Pro adopters. The problem primarily affected the ''first-generation AirPods Pro''. Users reported:

*Crackling or static sounds that intensified in loud environments, during exercise, or while talking on the phone.
*Rattling noises triggered by head movement or footsteps.
*Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) failure, resulting in a loss of bass or an increase in background noise (like street or airplane sounds).

Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-10-30 |title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues |url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues |archive-date=2022-06-04 |access-date=}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. In late 2021, Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

Despite Apple’s claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple’s internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed," these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard 1-year warranty (or 2-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

Many experts believe the issue was a fundamental design flaw in the first-gen hardware (likely related to glue degradation or sweat ingress affecting the internal microphones) rather than a specific "bad batch." As of 2026, the service program has officially ended for the vast majority of users because the "three years from date of sale" window has expired for almost everyone who owned the original Gen 1 model. Because of the refusal to cover units made after 2020 and the fact that many "replacement" units eventually failed too, Apple has faced several class-action lawsuits (notably ''LaBella v. Apple Inc.''). These suits allege that Apple continued to sell a defective product and misled consumers about the "fix."{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===
Main Article: [[AirPods Max Moisture Issue]][[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. |thumb|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]
Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-04 |title=Condensation in the Airpods Max |url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540?sortBy=rank |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Apple Community}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250119175742/https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ |archive-date=2025-01-19 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Reddit |publisher=pavanayii}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate/humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />

The AirPods Max moisture issue has been reported thousands of times to Apple and it is very likely that Apple is aware of the issue. Apple has not provided an official statement, warranty exemption, or additional replacement discount for this product.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===
Main Article: [[AirPods Connection Vulnerability]][[File:NIST-re.png|alt=CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment|thumb|CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment]]
A security vulnerability was discovered by Jonas Dreßler, this vulnerability would allow an attacker within the bluetooth range of any AirPods device to potentially spoof the source device address, redirecting it to another device controlled by the attacker and gaining control of the AirPods.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-24 |title=CVE-2024-27867 Detail |url=https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251109172541/https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 |archive-date=2025-11-09 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=National Institute of Standards and Technology {{!}} NIST}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-25 |title=About the security content of AirPods Firmware Update 6A326, AirPods Firmware Update 6F8, and Beats Firmware Update 6F8 |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224082150/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 |archive-date=2026-02-24 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Apple Support |publisher=Apple Inc.}}</ref>

==Products==

*AirPods (1st generation) (December 13, 2016<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2 March 2025 |title=Every Apple AirPods Generation: A Full History of Release Dates - IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/all-apple-airpods-release-dates-in-order |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044220/https://www.ign.com/articles/all-apple-airpods-release-dates-in-order |archive-date=2026-01-04 |website=IGN}}</ref>)
*AirPods (2nd generation) (March 20, 2019<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Pro (1st generation) (October 30, 2019<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Max (December 15, 2020<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods (3rd generation) (October 26, 2021<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Pro 2 (previously 2nd generation) (September 23, 2022<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods 4/ANC (September 20, 2024<ref name=":0" />)
==See also==
*[[Apple]]
*[[Sony's WF-1000XM4 earbuds]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Airpods]]
[[Category:Apple]]

AirPods

2026-04-04T14:36:52Z

Reform: Added a list of software-gated features, changed some headings, and removed bold as that is not aligned with wiki style guide, and added a bunch of citation needed markers

{{StubNotice}}
{{Cleanup}}
{{ProductLineCargo
| ReleaseYear = 2016-12-13
| Website = https://apple.com/airpods
| Logo = AirPods logo.svg
|ArticleType=ProductLine
|Category=Wireless earbuds
|Company=Apple
|Description= AirPods are wireless earbuds designed by Apple.
|InProduction=Yes}}

'''AirPods''' are wireless earbuds designed by [[Apple]]. They first debuted on September 07, 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and were released on December 13, 2016.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Sep 2016 |title=Apple reinvents the wireless headphone with AirPods |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044455/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ |archive-date=2026-01-04 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>

==Consumer impact summary==

=== Repairability ===

==== Obsolescense ====
AirPods are designed in a way that makes them unrepairable, leading to customers having to buy a new pair after a few years of use. Apple can replace them but will not repair them or help you do it yourself.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Dalvin |date=20 Apr 2023 |title=Apple Doesn’t Repair AirPods. Here’s Why. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE |archive-date=2026-02-02 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Youtube |publisher=Wall Street Journal}}</ref> According to an expert from iFixit:<blockquote>If you want to take this apart, non-destructively, to replace the batteries, as far as I know, that's impossible.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>The rechargeable batteries in AirPods can experience fast-tracked degradation after a certain number of battery cycles,<ref name=":1" /> with two-year-old sets lasting for less than half of the advertised five hours.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Elalj |first=Simo |date=2024-04-16 |title=How Long Do AirPods Last? (Battery & Lifespan) |url=https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723215441/https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan |archive-date=2025-07-23 |access-date=2026-02-20 |website=RefurbMe}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Apple Service and Repair for AirPods |url=https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260220050147/https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service |archive-date=2026-02-20 |access-date=2026-02-20 |website=Apple}}</ref>

==== Replacement over repair ====
[[File:Airpods-pro-3-carepricecomparison.png|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.|thumb|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]
Apple has a dedicated portal to buy "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and purchase replacement individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed|reason=Add 3rd party citation|date=4 Apr 2026}}

=== Freedom ===

==== Proprietary standards ====
Up until September 22, 2023, Apple used their proprietary Lightning connector on the AirPods' charging case, which forced the consumer to purchase Apple-licensed chargers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Borresen |first=Jennifer |date=22 Sep 2023 |title=iPhone 15 pro uses USB-C charger: An exploration of how Apple got here |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044745/https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ |archive-date=2026-01-04 |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=USA Today}}</ref>

==== Degraded operating system choice ====
The [[Software-gating|software-gated]] features that AirPods are marketed with are mode to only work with Apple's [[wikipedia:Operating_system|operating systems]], resulting in device's capabilities that are on par with basic wireless headphones when paired with non-Apple devices.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Christian |date=2025-03-26 |title=Don't use AirPods with Android |url=https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250407044828/https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ |archive-date=2025-04-07 |access-date=2026-01-05 |website=SOUNDGUYS}}</ref> The software-gated features include:

* Spatial audio
* The ear tip fit test
* Auto EQ
* Control customization
* Find my earbuds
* Automatic device switching
* Conversation boost
* Battery life status indicator
* Automatic ear detection<ref name=":4" />

However there have been projects attempting to regain marketed features of AirPods with non-Apple products, such as LibrePods.<ref>https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251220145417/https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods Archived])</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hardwick |first=Tim |date=2025-11-21 |title=This Free App Unlocks AirPods Features on Android Devices |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218044102/https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2025|access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MacRumors}}</ref>

==Incidents==
The following is a list of major incidents involving the Apple AirPods line of headphones.

===AirPods Pro sound issues (''2020'')===
The "Rattlegate" issue, which is officially known as the AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues, was reportedly frustrating for early AirPods Pro adopters. The problem primarily affected the ''first-generation AirPods Pro''. Users reported:

*Crackling or static sounds that intensified in loud environments, during exercise, or while talking on the phone.
*Rattling noises triggered by head movement or footsteps.
*Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) failure, resulting in a loss of bass or an increase in background noise (like street or airplane sounds).

Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-10-30 |title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues |url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues |archive-date=2022-06-04 |access-date=}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. In late 2021, Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

Despite Apple’s claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple’s internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed," these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard 1-year warranty (or 2-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

Many experts believe the issue was a fundamental design flaw in the first-gen hardware (likely related to glue degradation or sweat ingress affecting the internal microphones) rather than a specific "bad batch." As of 2026, the service program has officially ended for the vast majority of users because the "three years from date of sale" window has expired for almost everyone who owned the original Gen 1 model. Because of the refusal to cover units made after 2020 and the fact that many "replacement" units eventually failed too, Apple has faced several class-action lawsuits (notably ''LaBella v. Apple Inc.''). These suits allege that Apple continued to sell a defective product and misled consumers about the "fix."{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===
Main Article: [[AirPods Max Moisture Issue]][[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. |thumb|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]
Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-04 |title=Condensation in the Airpods Max |url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540?sortBy=rank |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Apple Community}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250119175742/https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ |archive-date=2025-01-19 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Reddit |publisher=pavanayii}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate/humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />

The AirPods Max moisture issue has been reported thousands of times to Apple and it is very likely that Apple is aware of the issue. Apple has not provided an official statement, warranty exemption, or additional replacement discount for this product.{{Citation needed|date=4 Apr 2026}}

===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===
Main Article: [[AirPods Connection Vulnerability]][[File:NIST-re.png|alt=CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment|thumb|CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment]]
A security vulnerability was discovered by Jonas Dreßler, this vulnerability would allow an attacker within the bluetooth range of any AirPods device to potentially spoof the source device address, redirecting it to another device controlled by the attacker and gaining control of the AirPods.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-24 |title=CVE-2024-27867 Detail |url=https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251109172541/https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 |archive-date=2025-11-09 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=National Institute of Standards and Technology {{!}} NIST}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-25 |title=About the security content of AirPods Firmware Update 6A326, AirPods Firmware Update 6F8, and Beats Firmware Update 6F8 |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224082150/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 |archive-date=2026-02-24 |access-date=2026-03-05 |website=Apple Support |publisher=Apple Inc.}}</ref>

==Products==

*AirPods (1st generation) (December 13, 2016<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2 March 2025 |title=Every Apple AirPods Generation: A Full History of Release Dates - IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/all-apple-airpods-release-dates-in-order |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044220/https://www.ign.com/articles/all-apple-airpods-release-dates-in-order |archive-date=2026-01-04 |website=IGN}}</ref>)
*AirPods (2nd generation) (March 20, 2019<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Pro (1st generation) (October 30, 2019<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Max (December 15, 2020<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods (3rd generation) (October 26, 2021<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods Pro 2 (previously 2nd generation) (September 23, 2022<ref name=":0" />)
*AirPods 4/ANC (September 20, 2024<ref name=":0" />)
==See also==
*[[Apple]]
*[[Sony's WF-1000XM4 earbuds]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Airpods]]
[[Category:Apple]]

Google

2026-04-02T22:12:10Z

Reform: Style changes according to Wiki Style Guide

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1998
|Industry=Technology
|Logo=Google.webp
|ParentCompany=Alphabet Inc.
|Type=Subsidiary
|Description=Google is one of the most influential technology companies in the world originally known for developing the most widely used search engine.
|Website=https://www.google.com/
}}

'''[[wikipedia:Google|Google LLC]]''', founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, is one of the most influential technology companies in the world.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Largest tech companies by market cap |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/tech/largest-tech-companies-by-market-cap/ |url-status=live |website=companiesmarketcap.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222070659/https://companiesmarketcap.com/tech/largest-tech-companies-by-market-cap/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> Originally developed as a search engine to organize and index the growing amount of information on the internet, Google has since expanded into a wide range of services and products, becoming a central player in digital advertising, software, hardware, and cloud computing.<ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=Google Products |url=https://about.google/products/ |access-date=10 Mar 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128182647/https://about.google/products/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref>

Google's search engine remains its most well-known service, but the company has significantly diversified its offerings. Key products include the [[Android]] operating system, the [[Google Chrome]] web browser, [https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Drive Google Drive] for cloud storage, [https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Maps Google Maps], [[YouTube]], and [[wikipedia:Google_Play|Google Play]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Helpful products, built with you in mind |url=https://about.google/intl/ALL_us/products/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=[[Google]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205114442/https://about.google/intl/ALL_us/products/ |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref>{{Citation needed}} Additionally, the company provides digital advertising services through Google Ads, generating the majority of its revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Feb 2025 |title=Alphabet Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Results |url=https://abc.xyz/assets/a3/91/6d1950c148fa84c7d699abe05284/2024q4-alphabet-earnings-release.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251002181452/https://abc.xyz/assets/a3/91/6d1950c148fa84c7d699abe05284/2024q4-alphabet-earnings-release.pdf |archive-date=2 Oct 2025}}</ref> In recent years, Google has also developed hardware products such as the Pixel smartphone and Nest smart home devices.

Google has faced ongoing scrutiny related to data privacy, competition, and its dominant position in the market, such concerns have stretched as far back as 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cohen |first=Adam |date=5 Mar 2012 |title=Will We Ever Get Strong Internet Privacy Rules? |url=https://ideas.time.com/2012/03/05/will-we-ever-get-strong-internet-privacy-rules/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Time |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205121437/https://ideas.time.com/2012/03/05/will-we-ever-get-strong-internet-privacy-rules/ |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=6 Sep 2023 |title=REPORT: Google at 25: From “Don’t Be Evil” To ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ |url=https://techoversight.org/2023/09/06/google-at-25/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=The Tech Oversight Project |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223929/https://techoversight.org/2023/09/06/google-at-25/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref> The company has been the subject of various legal and regulatory challenges, particularly concerning antitrust issues, the use of personal data, and its impact on consumer choice.{{Citation needed}} The US government is currently engaged in an antitrust lawsuit against Google, with a decision expected early 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 Nov 2024 |title=Closing Arguments, November 25: Once, Twice, Three Times a Monopolist |url=https://www.usvgoogleads.com/trial-updates/closing-arguments-november-25-once-twice-three-times-a-monopolist |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=US v Google |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250906103632/https://www.usvgoogleads.com/trial-updates/closing-arguments-november-25-once-twice-three-times-a-monopolist |archive-date=6 Sep 2025}}</ref> {{UpdateNeeded|date={{subst:August}} {{subst:2025}}|reason=We need updates on this situation.}}

In December 2024, Google announced to organisations that use its advertising products, that from 16 February 2025, it will no longer prohibit them from employing [[wikipedia:Fingerprint_(computing)|fingerprinting]] techniques.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Almond |first=Stephen |date=19 Dec 2024 |title=Our response to Google’s policy change on fingerprinting |url=https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/media-centre/news-and-blogs/2024/12/our-response-to-google-s-policy-change-on-fingerprinting/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=ico. |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128163957/https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/media-centre/news-and-blogs/2024/12/our-response-to-google-s-policy-change-on-fingerprinting/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Anti-consumer incidents==

===Service shutdowns===

====Google Play Music shutdown====
[[wikipedia:Google_Play_Music|Google Play Music]] was a service that allowed users to purchase music, listen via streaming, and download to the local device; alternatively users could pay for a subscription to listen to all music available through streaming. It was publicly launched on the 16th November 2011 and later shutdown in December 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Aug 2020 |title=Google Play Music, Music Play Store & Music Manager are going away – everything you need to know |url=https://support.google.com/youtubemusic/thread/62843644/google-play-music-music-play-store-music-manager-are-going-away-%E2%80%93-everything-you-need-to-know?hl=en |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=[[Google]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223929/https://support.google.com/youtubemusic/thread/62843644/google-play-music-music-play-store-music-manager-are-going-away-%E2%80%93-everything-you-need-to-know?hl=en |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Amadeo |first=Ron |date=28 Oct 2020 |title=RIP Google Play Music, 2011 – 2020 |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2020/10/rip-google-play-music-2011-2020/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=ArsTechnica |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251214224205/https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2020/10/rip-google-play-music-2011-2020/ |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref> Google Play Music further allowed users to upload their own songs to listen on all their devices, with a limit of up to 50,000 files.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoffman |first=Chris |date=11 Jan 2017 |title=How to Upload Your Music Library to Google Play Music |url=https://www.howtogeek.com/288231/how-to-upload-your-music-library-to-google-play-music/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=How-To-Geek |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223929/https://www.howtogeek.com/288231/how-to-upload-your-music-library-to-google-play-music/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref> Users were able to purchase songs individually or buy whole albums that they could then download and listen to, or stream through the internet.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 Jan 2020 |title=How To Buy Music From Google Play (Now YouTube Music) |url=https://www.technobezz.com/buy-music-google-play |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Technobezz |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250805235415/https://www.technobezz.com/buy-music-google-play |archive-date=5 Aug 2025}}</ref>

In October 2020, Google announced that they would be shutting down Google Play Music, with it being fully shut down by December.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Li |first=Abner |date=3 Dec 2020 |title=Google fully shuts down Play Music around the world |url=https://9to5google.com/2020/12/03/google-play-music-dead/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=9To5Google |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708163846/https://9to5google.com/2020/12/03/google-play-music-dead/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref> This went ahead with a warning to their users to begin migrating to [[wikipedia:YouTube_Music|YouTube Music]], and that they would be losing access to their purchased songs. Google recommended users should download their purchased songs before the service would shut down.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Aug 2020 |title=YouTube Music will replace Google Play Music by end of 2020 |url=https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/youtube-music-will-replace-google-play-music-end-2020/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=YouTube Official Blog |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260201140126/https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/youtube-music-will-replace-google-play-music-end-2020/ |archive-date=1 Feb 2026}}</ref>

After the shut down, users lost access to the music they paid for, with no way to download them. Google justified this by transferring all playlists and purchase history to YouTube Music, and only refunding songs that were not directly available,<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 Oct 2023 |title=What happened to my songs on Google Music? |url=https://darwinsdata.com/what-happened-to-my-songs-on-google-music/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Darwin's Data |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223930/https://darwinsdata.com/what-happened-to-my-songs-on-google-music/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Chaney |first=Sarah |date=5 Feb 2022 |title=What Happened to Google Play Music? |url=https://www.makeuseof.com/what-happened-to-google-play-music/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=MUO |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205111318/https://www.makeuseof.com/what-happened-to-google-play-music/ |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref> with no guarantee that the songs will remain available through the new service. Users found that their purchased songs were no longer able to stream at 320kbps on YouTube Music compared to Google Play Music unless they paid for the monthly subscription.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cutlack |first=Gary |date=23 Dec 2012 |title=Google Music UK: everything you need to know |url=https://www.techradar.com/news/software/google-music-uk-everything-you-need-to-know-1120176 |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=TechRadar |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251221115733/https://www.techradar.com/news/software/google-music-uk-everything-you-need-to-know-1120176 |archive-date=21 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=L. Hald |first=Nicole |date=24 Mar 2025 |title=How Is YouTube Music Sound Quality in 2025? Is It Any Good? |url=https://www.noteburner.com/youtube-music-tips/youtube-music-audio-quality.html |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=NoteBurner |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260217143252/https://www.noteburner.com/youtube-music-tips/youtube-music-audio-quality.html |archive-date=17 Feb 2026}}</ref> If a user failed to initiate the transfer of their music library or locally download their songs by 24th February 2021, then they lost all access and all data associated with Google Play Music.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sodhi |first=Tanishka |date=8 Feb 2021 |title=Google Play Music Data Will Be Deleted on February 24: Here’s How to Transfer to YouTube Music |url=https://www.gadgets360.com/how-to/news/google-play-music-data-deleted-february-24-youtube-how-to-transfer-files-playlists-billing-information-2365609 |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Gadgets 360 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205112610/https://www.gadgets360.com/how-to/news/google-play-music-data-deleted-february-24-youtube-how-to-transfer-files-playlists-billing-information-2365609 |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref> YouTube Music does not provide the option to download songs as MP3s, with local downloads requiring an internet connection every 30 days to continue working offline.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Download music and podcasts to listen to offline |url=https://support.google.com/youtubemusic/answer/6313535?hl=en-GB&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=[[Google]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223930/https://support.google.com/youtubemusic/answer/6313535?hl=en-GB&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

====Google Stadia shutdown====
In January 2023, Google announced the shutdown of its cloud gaming service, Stadia, which was launched in November 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=RIP Google Stadia: the latest news on the discontinued cloud gaming service |url=https://www.theverge.com/23380140/google-stadia-ending-shutdown-latest-news-gaming-tech |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=The Verge |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101185119/https://www.theverge.com/23380140/google-stadia-ending-shutdown-latest-news-gaming-tech |archive-date=1 Jan 2026}}</ref> Stadia required users to purchase games individually, unlike other gaming platforms that offer subscription-based access. Upon the service's closure, Google promised to refund consumers for their purchases, including both games and hardware. The refunds for games and software were issued automatically.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ravenscraft |first=Erin |date=10 Nov 2022 |title=Stadia Is Dying. Here’s What’s in Your Refund and How to Get It |url=https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-get-your-google-stadia-refund/ |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Wired |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205115111/https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-get-your-google-stadia-refund/ |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref>

Stadia users were effectively renting access to games, as the platform did not allow for traditional ownership or offline play. With the service discontinued, consumers were left without access to the content they had purchased. Stadia users who had bought controllers and other peripherals for the service were also impacted by the shutdown. While Google offered refunds to customers, many Stadia consumers were left with equipment that no longer performs the advertised functions and limited recourse for repurposing or reselling their devices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ashworth |first=Mack |date=5 Oct 2022 |title=Stadia Shut Down: How To Use Your Hardware Now Google’s Shutting It Down |url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/guides/852697-stadia-shut-down-how-to-use-controller-chromecast-without-app |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Game Revolution |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004224131/https://www.gamerevolution.com/guides/852697-stadia-shut-down-how-to-use-controller-chromecast-without-app |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

Google Stadia controllers were limited to Wi-Fi connectivity, however upon shut down they started offering an update to allow them to connect through Bluetooth, the update service website was scheduled to shut down on the 31st December 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Devine |first=Richard |date=17 Jan 2023 |title=Bluetooth support for Google Stadia Controller arrives — Here's how to enable it and play PC games |url=https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/bluetooth-support-for-google-stadia-controller-arrives-heres-how-to-enable-it-and-play-pc-games |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |website=Windows Central |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251109164004/https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/bluetooth-support-for-google-stadia-controller-arrives-heres-how-to-enable-it-and-play-pc-games |archive-date=9 Nov 2025}}</ref>

====Manifest V2 shutdown====
On July 24, 2025, Google permanently disabled all Manifest V2 extensions for Chrome 138 users as well as making Chromium (a browser that many other browsers use as their base) switch to Manifest V3, and disabled the ability to turn them back on.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-23 |title=Manifest V2 support timeline |url=https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/mv2-deprecation-timeline |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250808191702/https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/mv2-deprecation-timeline |archive-date=2025-08-08 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>

Manifest V3 disabled the <code>webRequestBlocking</code> permission in the <code>webRequest</code> API<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-09 |title=Replace blocking web request listeners {{!}} Chrome Extensions {{!}} Chrome for Developers |url=https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/blocking-web-requests |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250614074559/https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/blocking-web-requests |archive-date=2025-06-14 |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=Chrome for Developers}}</ref>, preventing many ad content blockers (such as uBlock Origin) from working.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-26 |title=Understanding Manifest V3 and the Future of uBlock Origin |url=https://ublockorigin.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250812114916/https://ublockorigin.com/ |archive-date=2025-08-12 |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=uBlock Origin - Free, open-source ad content blocker}}</ref> Google cites performance reasons <ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-09 |title=Replace blocking web request listeners {{!}} Chrome Extensions {{!}} Chrome for Developers |url=https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/blocking-web-requests |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250614074559/https://developer.chrome.com/docs/extensions/develop/migrate/blocking-web-requests |archive-date=2025-06-14 |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=Chrome for Developers |quote="In Manifest V2, blocking web requests could significantly degrade both the performance of extensions and the performance of pages they work with."}}</ref>, but this is dubious; restricting content blockers prevents users from impeding their tracking and surveillance, meaning they can create a larger profit from the data gained. This is likely the ulterior motive, although unproven.

====Google Jamboard shutdown====
{{Main|Google Jamboard}}
In September 2023, Google revealed plans to retire its Jamboard service, as the product would be transitioned to a view-only format by October 1, 2024, and completely shut down by December 31, 2024. As a result, users had little time to transfer their data before the final transition and no refunds were ever issued to hardware buyers.

The Jamboard product was a $5,000 device that Google pitched as a collaborative tool through its Google Workspace service. After the service no longer existed, however, the device became a brick and the users as well as the buyers were left unsupported and uncompensated.

Situations like this highlight the vulnerability of the consumer market since proprietary products are completely at the hands of developers who can cut services on a whim. Thus, consumer protection must be taken to another level to ensure that no matter what companies get rid of, support and compensatory avenues exist.

===Google Assistant 3rd Party List Support===
On June 20th, 2023, Google disabled 3rd party list support for Google Assistant<ref>{{Cite web |access-date=2025-09-16 |title=Where are my old lists? |url=https://support.google.com/assistant/answer/9415862#zippy=%2Cwhere-are-my-old-lists |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427212604/https://support.google.com/assistant/answer/9415862#zippy=%2Cwhere-are-my-old-lists |archive-date=2025-04-27}}</ref>. This feature allowed lists through 3rd party services such as AnyList or Todoist to be managed via Google Assistant. The only list provider available through Google Assistant after this change was Google Keep<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mathur |first=Chandraveer |website=Android Police |date=2023-05-31 |title=Google Assistant is killing support for notes and lists integration with third-party apps |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/google-assistant-ending-support-third-party-notes-lists/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218051543/https://www.androidpolice.com/google-assistant-ending-support-third-party-notes-lists/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2025}}</ref>.

===Pixel 4a battery reduction update===
{{Main|Pixel 4a Battery Performance Program}}
On January 6, 2025, Google issued a software update to the Pixel 4a that significantly decreased battery capacity on "Impacted Devices". Not all units were affected. It's speculated that the affected units have defective batteries and may pose a safety risk if the update is not applied, but Google never disclosed the reason(s) that the update was deemed necessary. Google removed all factory images for previous versions of the system software from their website, making it difficult to revert the update.

As compensation, Google offered a free battery replacement only in select countries. In other countries, you could choose between a $50 USD payment or $100 USD worth of Google Store credits. However, some users reported difficulty obtaining their compensation.

===Blocking sideloading of unverified Android apps===
{{Main|Google blocking sideloading of unverified Android apps}}
On 25 August 2025, '''[[Google]]''' announced that starting in 2026 it will block the installation of Android apps from outside the Play Store unless the developer has verified their identity with Google. The policy will first roll out in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, with global enforcement targeted for 2027.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Frey |first=Suzanne |date=25 Aug 2025 |title=A new layer of security for certified Android devices |url=https://android-developers.googleblog.com/2025/08/elevating-android-security.html |url-status=live |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Android Developers Blog |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128013331/https://android-developers.googleblog.com/2025/08/elevating-android-security.html |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=25 Aug 2025 |title=Google will require developer verification for Android apps outside the Play Store |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/25/google-will-require-developer-verification-for-android-apps-outside-the-play-store/ |url-status=live |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=TechCrunch |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260119211509/https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/25/google-will-require-developer-verification-for-android-apps-outside-the-play-store/ |archive-date=19 Jan 2026}}</ref> This marks a significant change to Android's long-standing support for sideloading apps.

Devices without [[Google Mobile Services]] or running custom ROMs are exempt.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Tim |date=2025-08-26 |title=Google kneecaps indie Android devs, forces them to register |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/26/android_developer_verification_sideloading |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250829170329/https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/26/android_developer_verification_sideloading |archive-date=2025-08-29 |access-date=2025-08-26 |website=The Register}}</ref> Critics argue this restricts user freedom, impacts independent developers, and may enable Google to block apps it disapproves of, such as ad-blockers, raising concerns about privacy and control over personal devices.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Tim |date=26 Aug 2025 |title=Google kneecaps indie Android devs, forces them to register |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/26/android_developer_verification_sideloading |url-status=live |access-date=26 Aug 2025 |website=The Register |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260119211440/https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/26/android_developer_verification_sideloading/ |archive-date=19 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |first= |date=26 Aug 2025 |title=Google will block sideloading of unverified Android apps starting next year |url=https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/810335/google-will-block-sideloading-of-unverified-android-apps-starting-next-year |url-status=live |access-date=26 Aug 2025 |website=BleepingComputer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250829215120/https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/810335/google-will-block-sideloading-of-unverified-android-apps-starting-next-year/ |archive-date=29 Aug 2025}}</ref>

===Banning domain-blockers from Play Store===
Since 2013, Google has taken down all apps on G-Play that can block connections to arbitrary [[wikipedia:Domain_Name_System|domain-names]] via [https://developer.android.com/develop/connectivity/vpn the official VPN API], most of those apps being marketed as ad-blockers.<ref>https://www.zdnet.com/article/google-kicks-ad-blocker-apps-off-play-store/</ref> This forced apps such as AdGuard and NetGuard to distribute their ad-blocking features elsewhere.<ref>https://adguard.com/en/blog/adguard-google-play-removal.html</ref><ref>https://github.com/M66B/NetGuard/blob/7308869411ff87649bf3a46a9c7c08f1e5353801/ADBLOCKING.md?plain=1#L6</ref><ref>https://github.com/M66B/NetGuard/blob/7308869411ff87649bf3a46a9c7c08f1e5353801/ADBLOCKING.md?plain=1#L106</ref>

Google cites their own Developer Distribution Agreement (terms of service for devs), claiming that those apps are "disruptive", as if to imply hacking or cracking. Many people claim that's an invalid excuse, and that the ulterior motive was to increase ad-revenue.

===Pixel devices bricked due to confusing reasons ===
Numerous Google Pixel phones have gotten bricked as a result of different use cases, such as accidentally switched slots, flashing custom ROMs or downgrading the bootloader version of the device after an Anti-Rollback (ARB) increment (accidentally or otherwise), or installing the June 2025 update.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Simons |first=Hadlee |date=2025-08-26 |title=Some Pixels are bricked and Google apparently won't help revive them |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-phones-bricked-3591218/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260108045933/https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-phones-bricked-3591218/ |archive-date=8 Jan 2026 |access-date=2025-09-11 |website=Android Authority}}</ref> The device enters an emergency download state called Pixel ROM Recovery, which is a Google modification of Samsung's EUB mode on Exynos chipsets. In this mode, it refuses to enter Android recovery or Fastboot, making it near impossible to restore the operating system on the device. The only way to fix it is to use Pixel ROM Recovery to boot a special, Google-signed recovery bootloader into RAM and flash a working version of Android from there.

This recovery bootloader is just a regular bootloader as it appears in Google factory images, but with a special "USB boot" bit flag set to 1. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-11 |title=Pixel devices getting bricked / stuck in Pixel ROM Recovery after flashing AOSP-based builds with Android 15 QPR2 (BP1A.250305.019) |url=https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/402455330#comment19 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205112358/https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/402455330 |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref>

However, this recovery bootloader is inaccessible to the public, and is not possible to recreate it without Google's private keys. This makes it impossible to repair a device in this state, other than to do a technically challenging repair involving desoldering the UFS chip to repopulate its contents or by replacing the motherboard altogether. Google stores and service centers outside of the US do not offer support for the device if it is out of warranty, even though the issue is completely fixable by software.

Numerous developers have worked on trying to find a solution to this issue, and have succeeded to varying extents. However, devices bricked due to the ARB trigger remain impossible to fix. Google has not provided any recovery images to resolve this issue, despite there being a sizable post on their bug tracker.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2025-08-10 |title=Pixel recovery bootloaders lack security reasoning for guarding |url=https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/437705274 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-11 |website=Google IssueTracker |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004223929/https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/437705274 |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-03-12 |title=Pixel devices getting bricked / stuck in Pixel ROM Recovery after flashing AOSP-based builds with Android 15 QPR2 (BP1A.250305.019) |url=https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/402455330 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-11 |website=Google IssueTracker |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205112358/https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/402455330 |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref> despite the fact that Google providing the recovery images for the repair will not compromise security, as explained by one of the developers in their report.<ref name=":4" />

==Controversies==

===Account lockouts===
Google has been reported to have randomly locked people out of their accounts due to ostensible security reasons, which are not lifted even if the user had provided the correct credentials and/or even if the user have correctly followed all the verification prompts such as SMS verification. These have caused anguishes for many affected users who are unable to access their contents, emails and services as a result. Furthermore, some had reported that they are forced to undergo SMS verification even when recovery email addresses are already configured to their accounts, thereby likely constituting instances of [[Forced identification|forced verification]] in broad senses.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/n5card/mike_rose_no_more_robots_publisher_locked_out_of/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20210505101632/https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/n5card/mike_rose_no_more_robots_publisher_locked_out_of/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/oy8qb8/fyi_google_can_lock_you_out_of_your_account_for/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20210805030048/https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/oy8qb8/fyi_google_can_lock_you_out_of_your_account_for/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/154yht0/dae_noticed_that_google_had_taken_security/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20230720181226/https://old.reddit.com/r/degoogle/comments/154yht0/dae_noticed_that_google_had_taken_security/ Archived])</ref>

===Deletion of inactive accounts===
In May 2023, Google announced that [[Inactive account deletion|deletion of inactive user accounts]] would occur starting in December 2023, citing security reasons, noting that old and unused accounts are more likely to be compromised. Google claimed that "Forgotten or unattended accounts often rely on old or re-used passwords that may have been compromised, have not had two factor authentication set up, and receive fewer security checks by the user," while saying that Google "has no plans to delete [[YouTube]] videos".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lawler |first1=Richard |title=Google might delete your Gmail account if you haven't logged in for two years |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/16/23725438/google-gmail-deleting-inactive-accounts |website=The Verge |access-date=21 December 2023 |language=en |date=16 May 2023 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205121216/https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/16/23725438/google-gmail-deleting-inactive-accounts |archive-date=5 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Porter |first1=Jon |title=Reminder: Google is about to start purging inactive accounts |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/28/23979178/google-inactive-accounts-deletion-december-2023-psa-reminder |website=The Verge |access-date=21 December 2023 |language=en |date=28 November 2023 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251212230239/https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/28/23979178/google-inactive-accounts-deletion-december-2023-psa-reminder |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Amadeo |first1=Ron |title=Google's new "inactive account" policy won't delete years of YouTube videos |url=https://arstechnica.com/google/2023/05/googles-new-inactive-account-policy-wont-delete-years-of-youtube-videos/ |website=Ars Technica |access-date=21 December 2023 |language=en-us |date=17 May 2023 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251212092014/https://arstechnica.com/google/2023/05/googles-new-inactive-account-policy-wont-delete-years-of-youtube-videos/ |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref> The decision to delete inactive accounts has sparked some criticism and backlash. The cited security rationale behind such decision was ridiculed and was compared to a hypothetical scenario where a bank should be burned down if it is not secure against robbers.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Novet |first1=Jordan |title=Google's plan to purge inactive accounts isn't sitting well with some users |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/19/google-faces-criticism-of-plan-to-purge-inactive-accounts.html |website=CNBC |access-date=21 December 2023 |language=en |date
=19 August 2023 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250831223936/https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/19/google-faces-criticism-of-plan-to-purge-inactive-accounts.html |archive-date=31 Aug 2025}}</ref> Such policies could adversely affect those who had good reasons to become inactive for a long time, such as hospitalization, prison incarceration, and being in totalitarian countries which have prolonged internet shutdowns. Moreover, the Anonymous hacktivist collective has protested against the decision to delete inactive accounts multiple times, describing them as "harsh" and saying that the decision will "destroy history".<ref>{{cite web |date=18 July 2023 |title=Anonymous puts Taiwan flag, national anthem on 2 UN websites {{!}} Taiwan News {{!}} 2023-07-18 09:56:00 |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4946597 |access-date=21 December 2023 |website=Taiwan News}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20231014070719/https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4946597 Archived])</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=18 October 2023 |title='Anonymous' hacks Chinese government site to protest Israel–Hamas war {{!}} Taiwan News {{!}} 2023-10-18 19:03:00 |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5022840 |access-date=21 December 2023 |website=Taiwan News}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20240221120716/https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5022840 Archived])</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=8 December 2023 |title=Anonymous posts Taiwan flag on UN site {{!}} Taiwan News {{!}} 2023-12-08 17:26:00 |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5055454 |access-date=21 December 2023 |website=Taiwan News}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20240228035811/https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5055454 Archived])</ref>

===Google device repair program restrictions===
{{Main|Google asserts the right to seize your phone during a repair}}
Google's Service & Repair Program terms explicitly state that any device containing non-Google-authorized parts "will not be returned" to the customer.

===Target API level requirements for Google Play apps===
Google's policy of requiring apps for Android to target recent API levels to appear in the Play Store<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 Aug 2024 |title=Policy Center |url=https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answer/11926878?hl=en |access-date=May 9, 2025 |website=Play Console Help |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215054419/https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answer/11926878?hl=en |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref> creates a continuous cycle of maintenance and redevelopment that can be especially burdensome for smaller developers, indie creators, and consumers.

The requirement for apps to target newer APIs each year serves some legitimate security and feature purposes. However, it also effectively functions as a form of forced obsolescence. Even perfectly functional apps that don't need technical updates must be regularly reworked just to remain visible on the Play Store.

This creates several issues:

*Development resources must be allocated to updating apps rather than creating new features
*Smaller teams and individual developers are placed at a disadvantage attempting to keep up with the constant update cycle
*Legacy apps that are no longer actively maintained disappear, even if they're still useful
*The cost of maintaining apps increases, potentially making some projects financially nonviable
*Losing access to previously purchased apps when upgrading devices
*Users being unable to reinstall older apps that worked perfectly well for their needs
*Facing unexpected costs to replace functionality they've already paid for
*Dealing with the frustration of discovering favorite apps have disappeared

While Google argues this approach improves the Android ecosystem's security and functionality, it does place a significant burden on developers and can lead to the premature "death" of otherwise functional applications.

This creates a troubling disconnect in digital ownership. Consumers reasonably expect that when they purchase an app, they should maintain access to it across their devices over time. Instead, they discover their digital purchases can effectively vanish due to policy decisions beyond their control.

===Ban on third-party tech support ads===
Google prohibits tech support ads on their platform if they are not authorised by the manufacturer.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Graff |first=David |date=31 Aug 2018 |title=Restricting ads in third-party tech support services |url=https://blog.google/products/ads/restricting-ads-third-party-tech-support-services/ |website=Google |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112170608/https://blog.google/products/ads/restricting-ads-third-party-tech-support-services/ |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===The chargeback incident===
In November 2022, a Google customer accidentally purchased two Google Pixel smartphones instead of one, directly from Google (no third-party reseller), and tried to return one package to Google for a refund, but the shipping was unsuccessful.

A Google customer support person suggested the customer to perform a chargeback. The customer acted accordingly without understanding the implications, resulting in the termination of their Google account shortly after. The account was 15 years old at that time.<ref>[https://www.virtualcuriosities.com/articles/3393/danger-chargeback-equals-account-permanently-banned DANGER!!!: Chargeback = ACCOUNT PERMANENTLY BANNED. - Virtual curiosities] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260205120523/https://www.virtualcuriosities.com/articles/3393/danger-chargeback-equals-account-permanently-banned Archived])</ref><ref>[https://old.reddit.com/r/tifu/comments/zndbku/tifu_by_accidentally_buying_two_google_pixels_and/ TIFU by accidentally buying two Google Pixels and ended up getting my 15 year old Google Account permanently banned. - Reddit] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260113140546/https://old.reddit.com/r/tifu/comments/zndbku/tifu_by_accidentally_buying_two_google_pixels_and/ Archived])</ref>

==Anti-consumer legal cases==

===Privacy Violations===

====Rodriguez v. Google LLC (21 May 2021 - 3 Sep 2025)====
Google's "Web & App Activity" (WAA) setting had the ability to be paused. Reportedly, despite this setting being paused by consumers, Google would continue to collect consumer data regardless of consent.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rodriguez v. Google LLC |url=https://www.googlewebappactivitylawsuit.com/Home/FAQ#faq1 |url-status=live |access-date=5 Apr 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251011171640/https://googlewebappactivitylawsuit.com/Home/FAQ |archive-date=11 Oct 2025}}</ref> This case is currently ongoing and has yet to receive a judgment.<ref>[https://www.googlewebappactivitylawsuit.com/Home/Documents Important Documents] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250911091039/https://googlewebappactivitylawsuit.com/Home/Documents Archived])</ref> Google collected mobile device data for eight years from users who opted out of tracking under the WAA.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Staab |first=Theresa |date=18 Sep 2025 |title=Someone is Always Watching: Implications of Google's WAA Privacy Case |url=https://lawreview.syr.edu/someone-is-always-watching-implications-of-googles-waa-privacy-case/ |access-date=26 Mar 2026 |website=Syracuse Law Review}}</ref> The dates of use/activity in question were between July 1, 2016 and September 23, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 Oct 2024 |title=FAQs: Google Web App Activity lawsuit |url=https://help.wfu.edu/support/solutions/articles/13000825158-faqs-google-web-app-activity-lawsuit |url-status=live |access-date=26 Mar 2026 |website=Wake Forest University}}</ref> On September 3, 2025, the San Francisco Federal Court jury held Google liable two of three claims of privacy invasion. Google was charged $425 million for invasion of privacy, but not for punitive damages since the jury found that Google did not act with malicious intent.<ref name=":5" />

===Anti-competitive Behavior===

====Epic Games, Inc. v. Google Inc. (13 Aug 2020 - 31 May 2025)====
Google takes a 30% share of all revenue made through all sales made on the Play Store, which is a comparable figure to other digital storefronts such as the [[Apple App Store]] and [[Steam]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Tom |date=7 Oct 2019 |title=Report: Steam's 30% Cut Is Actually the Industry Standard |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/10/07/report-steams-30-cut-is-actually-the-industry-standard |url-status=live |website=ign.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211034837/https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/10/07/report-steams-30-cut-is-actually-the-industry-standard |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref> On 13th August 2020, [[Epic Games]] CEO Tim Sweeney updated both iOS and Android versions of ''Fortnite'' to redirect users to Epic Games' storefront to purchase in-game currency ("V-Bucks") alongside the respective first-party storefront, with incentives including cheaper prices if buying from Epic Games directly. This violated the Terms of Service of both Apple and Google's storefronts, and ''Fortnite'' was removed from both app stores the same day.

Epic Games would use this motion to file federal lawsuits against both Google and Apple, citing that these practices meant that the companies were engaging in anti-competitive behavior. Google lost in the lawsuit, but attempted to appeal the decision, in which they lost again.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=31 July 2025 |title=Epic just won its Google lawsuit again, and Android may never be the same |url=https://www.theverge.com/news/716856/epic-v-google-win-in-appeals-court |access-date=21 August 2025 |work=The Verge |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260111151936/https://www.theverge.com/news/716856/epic-v-google-win-in-appeals-court |archive-date=11 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===Social Media Addiction Bellwether Trials===

====Los Angeles Superior Court, JCCP 5255 (2026)====
Starting in January of 2026, [[Meta]] (Facebook and [[Instagram]]) and [[Google]] ([[YouTube]]) faced legal claims of their platforms being intentionally addictive and harmful to children. [[ByteDance]] ([[TikTok]]) and Snap ([[Snapchat]]) were named initially, but settled for undisclosed terms before the trial began. A 19-year-old girl, referred to by the initials "KGM" or Kaley, and two other plaintiffs were selected for bellwether trials—test cases tried as part of an MDL.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Huamani |first=Kaitlyn |last2=Ortutay |first2=Barbara |date=9 Feb 2026 |title=Landmark trial accusing tech giants of harming children with addictive social media begins |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/landmark-trial-accusing-tech-giants-of-harming-children-with-addictive-social-media-begins |url-status=live |access-date=25 Mar 2026 |website=PBS News}}</ref> On March 25, 2026, the California jury concluded in KGM's case that [[Meta]] and Google were guilty of negligent for their apps—[[Instagram]], Facebook, and [[YouTube]]—being deliberately built to be addictive, which the companies' executives knew this and failed to protect their youngest users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allyn |first=Bobby |date=25 Mar 2026 |title=Jury finds Meta and Google negligent in social media harms trial |url=https://www.npr.org/2026/03/25/nx-s1-5746125/meta-youtube-social-media-trial-verdict |url-status=live |access-date=26 Mar 2026 |website=npr}}</ref> [[Meta]] was charged to pay $4.2 million for compensatory and punitive damages, and charged Google $1.8 million.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kang |first=Cecilia |last2=Mac |first2=Ryan |last3=Tan |first3=Eli |date=25 Mar 2026 |title=Meta and YouTube Found Negligent in Landmark Social Media Addiction Case |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/25/technology/social-media-trial-verdict.html |url-status=live |access-date=26 Mar 2026 |website=The New York Times}}</ref>

==See also==

===Products and Services===

[[List of Google products]]
===Controversies===

*[[Advertising overload]]
*[[Google asserts the right to seize phones during repairs]]
*[[Google Nest Protect forced to use Google app]]
*[[Google Nest thermostat smart features disabled]]
*[[Google Pixel Watches do not come with repair options]]

==External links==

*"[https://www.jwz.org/xscreensaver/google.html XScreenSaver: Google Store Privacy Policy]". Google pretending to care about privacy by forcing a fully-local (no internet) minimal-permission screen-saver app to specify a privacy-policy. That blog-post contains many sources on Google's anti-consumer practices

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Google]]

2026-04-02T18:51:09Z

Reform: Style changes according to wiki style guide and converted in-text link to citation

{{StubNotice}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Description=Professional networking platform owned by Microsoft.
|Founded=2002
|Industry=Social Media
|Logo=LinkedIn.png
|ParentCompany=Microsoft
|Type=Subsidiary
|Website=https://linkedin.com/
}}
[[wikipedia:LinkedIn|'''LinkedIn''']] is a social-media platform for professional networking, founded in 2002.

==Summary==

*It has been known for its [[dark patterns]].

*Users register on LinkedIn with an email, which LinkedIn then scrapes their contacts list and uploads this information to LinkedIn.<ref>[https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a545600/what-people-can-see-on-your-profile#:~:text=Contact%20and%20personal%20information%20that%20you%E2%80%99ve%20provided%20in%20the%20Contact%20Info%20section%20of%20your%20profile%20is%20only%20visible%20to%20your%201st-degree%20connections What People Can See on Your Profile]. [https://web.archive.org/web/20251205200135/https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a545600/what-people-can-see-on-your-profile Archived] 2025-12-05</ref>

*LinkedIn also makes it difficult to cancel their free trial membership, likely targeting users that have forgotten or are unable to locate the cancel page.<ref>[https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a545578 Cancel LinkedIn Premium subscription] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260221041357/https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a545578 Archived])</ref>

*LinkedIn has a habit of restricting accounts stating a need to verify identity, this disables the ability to navigate to the cancel membership page and can lead to being charged.

*LinkedIn's membership price has also quintupled from $10 per month in 2018 to $50 in 2024.

==Data Privacy==
LinkedIn automatically opts you into their program named "Data for Generative AI Improvement", or "GAI", which automatically says you agree to "Use my data for training content creation models."<ref>[https://www.linkedin.com/mypreferences/d/settings/data-for-ai-improvement Data for Generative AI Improvement] - linkedin.com - 29 Jan 2025</ref> This comes with fine print which states, "This setting controls the training of generative AI models used to create content. When this setting is on LinkedIn and its affiliates may use your personal data and content you create on LinkedIn for that purpose." 

This automatically gives LinkedIn the license to use your personal data and the content you create to train their models. Even if you opt out, the personal data and content the platform has already used will not be deleted.<ref name="linkedin-faq">[https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a5538339 LinkedIn and generative AI (GAI) FAQs] - linkedin.com - 29 Jan 2025. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250124150439/https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a5538339 Archived] 24 Jan 2025.</ref>

As of 29 January 2025, LinkedIn FAQ mentions that it does <i>"not currently train content-generating AI models on data from members located in Canada, the EU, EEA, UK, Switzerland, Hong Kong, or Mainland China."</i><ref name="linkedin-faq" />

As of 19 September 2025, LinkedIn banner announcement was sent to logged in users saying ''"Update to our terms and data use"'' ''"Starting November 3, 2025, we'll use some of your Linkedln data to improve the content-generating Al that enhances your experience, unless you opt out in your [https://www.linkedin.com/mypreferences/d/settings/data-for-ai-improvement/ settings]. We're also updating our terms. See what's new and how to manage your data. [https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a8059228/ Learn more] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251122030430/https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a8059228 Archived])"''. Specifically mentioned regions are Canada, the EU, EEA, UK, Switzerland and Hong Kong. Announcement described how previously excluded regions would now be included in the "Data for Generative AI Improvement".[[File:LinkedIn - Update to our Terms and data use 2025.png|thumb|411x411px|Screenshot of [https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a8059228/ Terms of service update] at 19th Sep 2025]]
===Account Verification===

Verifying a LinkedIn account (i.e. acquiring a blue checkmark) requires sending a full copy of the user's passport to a third party service provider, Persona. Biometric data of several kinds such as typing patterns are also collected by Persona. The company then retains the right to store the information, share it with third party data brokers and train AI on the passport and the passport photo. <ref>{{Cite web |first=Rogi |date=2026-02-16 |title=I Verified My LinkedIn Identity. Here's What I Actually Handed Over. |url=https://thelocalstack.eu/posts/linkedin-identity-verification-privacy/ |archive-url=https://archive.ph/4IUtj |archive-date=2026-02-23 |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=The Local Stack}}</ref>

For users outside the United States, this also means that their personal and biometric data is sent to US servers, where they are accessible to US authorities.

==Account Deletion==
Some users have reported that the browser LinkedIn version disables the "Done" button at the end of the "Delete your account" flow.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Why won’t LinkedIn let you delete your account? It's like they've disabled the close account button. |url=https://www.quora.com/Why-won-t-LinkedIn-let-you-delete-your-account-Its-like-theyve-disabled-the-close-account-button |website=Quora}}</ref> They had to modify source HTML via Source Inspector to close their account.<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 Jun 2025 |title=LinkedIn Account Deletion button disabled |url=https://youtu.be/497YdWlDsAw |access-date=2 Apr 2026 |website=Youtube}}</ref> Users that reported this error also reported that it exists since 2022, and it hasn't been fixed since then.

Potential solutions:

#Modifying HTML, removing the "disabled" attribute from the button.
#Some users reported that typing their password by hand helped make the button work. Others have appealed that it didn't work anyways.<ref name=":0" />
#Some users reported that using the phone app to close your account worked, even if you created yours through the browser version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 May 2024 |title=Impossible to close Linkedin account |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/linkedin/comments/1d0a4ah/impossible_to_close_linkedin_account/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220223136/https://old.reddit.com/r/linkedin/comments/1d0a4ah/impossible_to_close_linkedin_account/ |archive-date=20 Feb 2026 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>

==Browser scanning and personal data mining==
Fairlinked e.V. have discovered data mining operation from within your browser when visiting LinkedIn. [https://browsergate.eu/ BrowserGate] exposes Microsoft's LinkedIn for allegedly conducting a massive, undisclosed spying operation by injecting malicious JavaScript into users' browsers to secretly scan and detect over 6,222 installed browser extensions without consent, in violation of the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA). It reveals how LinkedIn builds detailed individual and organizational profiles based on extensions indicating sensitive information such as political opinions, religious beliefs, disabilities, neurodivergence, job-seeking status, and even mapping which organizations use which competitor products, then aggregates this data while matching it to users' names, employers, and job titles.{{Citation needed|date=2 Apr 2026}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:LinkedIn Corporation]]

Subscription service

2026-04-02T07:56:41Z

Reform: /* Digital medium */

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

==Traditional subscriptions==
Traditionally a subscription service provides a physically tangible outcome, meaning some part of the process is ''not'' digitally automated. This includes product delivery services such as newspapers, comics, magazines, or meal-kit delivery services like HelloFresh. Another type of non-automated subscriptions are memberships to physical places or activities, like a sports club or an association. All these kinds of memberships are traditionally paid in cash, further reducing the possibility for digital automation.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Modern subscriptions==

===Automation===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal aspect of a subscription service is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Digital medium===
Modern subscriptions provide a digital outcome, which makes it physically intangible. Usually these are digital alternatives to physical mediums like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

===Anti-consumer signs===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

#What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
#The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
#When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
#The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

==Broader implications==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
{{See also|Click-to-cancel}}
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with [[Netflix]] subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
[[Game Pass]], also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
[[Nintendo Switch Online]] is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Subscription service

2026-04-02T07:52:47Z

Reform: /* Traditional subscriptions */

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

==Traditional subscriptions==
Traditionally a subscription service provides a physically tangible outcome, meaning some part of the process is ''not'' digitally automated. This includes product delivery services such as newspapers, comics, magazines, or meal-kit delivery services like HelloFresh. Another type of non-automated subscriptions are memberships to physical places or activities, like a sports club or an association. All these kinds of memberships are traditionally paid in cash, further reducing the possibility for digital automation.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Modern subscriptions==

===Automation===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal aspect of a subscription service is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Digital medium===
Modern subscriptions often provide a digital alternative to physical mediums, like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

===Anti-consumer signs===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

#What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
#The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
#When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
#The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

==Broader implications==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
{{See also|Click-to-cancel}}
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with [[Netflix]] subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
[[Game Pass]], also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
[[Nintendo Switch Online]] is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Subscription service

2026-04-02T07:48:58Z

Reform: Traditional subscriptions rewrite

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

==Traditional subscriptions==
Traditionally a subscription service provides a physically tangible outcome, meaning the process is usually ''not'' digitally automated. This includes product delivery services such as newspapers, comics, magazines, or meal-kit delivery services like HelloFresh. Another type of non-automated subscriptions are membership access to physical places or activities, like a sports club or association. All these kinds of services are traditionally paid in cash, further reducing the possibility for digital automation.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Modern subscriptions==

===Automation===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal aspect of a subscription service is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Digital medium===
Modern subscriptions often provide a digital alternative to physical mediums, like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

===Anti-consumer signs===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

#What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
#The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
#When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
#The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

==Broader implications==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
{{See also|Click-to-cancel}}
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with [[Netflix]] subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
[[Game Pass]], also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
[[Nintendo Switch Online]] is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Subscription service

2026-04-02T07:16:19Z

Reform: /* Traditional subscriptions */

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

==Traditional subscriptions==
Traditionally this involves a physical act of an employee which can ''not'' be automated. Examples of this are companies or freelancers providing repeated gardening or cleaning jobs for consumers, or repeated mechanical maintenance for companies. Another type of traditional subscriptions are product-based services. These kinds of services repeatedly deliver physical products to a consumer, usually on a regular interval. This includes newspaper delivery and a meal-kit delivery service like HelloFresh.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Modern subscriptions==

===Automation===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal element of a subscription is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Digital medium===
Modern subscriptions often provide a digital alternative to physical mediums, like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

===Anti-consumer signs===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

#What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
#The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
#When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
#The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

==Broader implications==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
{{See also|Click-to-cancel}}
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with [[Netflix]] subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
[[Game Pass]], also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
[[Nintendo Switch Online]] is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Subscription service

2026-04-02T07:13:53Z

Reform: /* Traditional subscriptions */

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

==Traditional subscriptions==
Traditionally this involves a physical act of an employee which can ''not'' be automated. Examples of this are companies or freelancers providing repeated gardening or cleaning jobs for consumers, or repeated mechanical maintenance for companies. Another type of traditional subscription are product-based services. These kinds of services repeatedly deliver physical products to a consumer, usually on a regular interval. This includes newspaper delivery and a meal-kit delivery service like HelloFresh.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Modern subscriptions==

===Automation===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal element of a subscription is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Digital medium===
Modern subscriptions often provide a digital alternative to physical mediums, like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

===Anti-consumer signs===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

#What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
#The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
#When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
#The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

==Broader implications==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
{{See also|Click-to-cancel}}
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with [[Netflix]] subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
[[Game Pass]], also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
[[Nintendo Switch Online]] is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Category:License Laundering

2026-04-01T21:03:51Z

Reform: Updated link

'''License laundering''', as defined in this wiki, is the undermining of traditional concepts of software ownership through systematic moves to make consumers consent to [[Rights stripping|rights-stripping]] license agreements for software they ''already bought and paid for'', and usually [[Activation|deactivates]] the software if disagreed with. Pages that fall under this category are examples of instances of this anti-consumer behavior.

[[Category:Rights Stripping]]

Rights stripping

2026-04-01T21:03:23Z

Reform: /* Types of rights stripping */

{{StubNotice}}

'''Rights stripping''' is the systematic removal or reduction of consumer rights through agreement modifications. 

==Consumer rights impact==

===Types of rights stripping===

*[[Feature ransom]], when features are removed until users accept new agreement modifications
*[[Legal lockout]], when the legal rights, and access to legal remedies, of users are removed by agreement modifications
*[[License laundering|License euthanasia]], when lifetime licenses are transferred to a conditional license such as a subscription

[[Category:Rights Stripping]]
[[Category:Anti-consumer practices]]
[[Category:Common terms]]

Subscription service

2026-04-01T21:01:20Z

Reform: Overhauled a section for clarity on the difference between traditional and modern subscriptions

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to receive the services provided by the company.

== Traditional subscriptions ==
Traditionally this involves a physical act of an employee which can ''not'' be automated. Examples of this are companies or freelancers providing repeated gardening or cleaning jobs for consumers, or repeated mechanical maintenance for companies. Another type of traditional subscription is product-based services. These kinds of services repeatedly deliver physical products to a consumer, usually on a regular interval. This includes newspaper delivery and a meal-kit delivery service like HelloFresh.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

== Modern subscriptions ==

=== Automation ===
In the modern subscription landscape, the principal element of a subscription is ''automation.'' This isn't inherently anti-consumer, but it raises some concerns. A company can for example, regardless of consumer expectations, tweak values to exert direct control over the service. This means that unlike making a human gardener or cleaner intentionally degrade the quality of their work, it is ''really easy'' to degrade the quality of an automated service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

=== Digital medium ===
Modern subscriptions often provide a digital alternative to physical mediums, like DVDs, CDs, newspapers, and magazines. This isn't inherently anti-consumer, due to digital formats being more flexible. However, if using an [[Features on demand|on-demand]] business model, it requires [[activation]] with [[Forced cloud|forced-cloud]], usually enforced with [[digital rights management]], and this effectively gives up full ownership of the media to the service provider.

=== Anti-consumer signs ===
Signs to recognize anti-consumer subscriptions include:

# What the subscription provides are [[features on demand]] that are already built into the physical product.
# The subscription has multiple variants, usually called tiers, and if deployed with various [[Dark pattern|dark patterns]], create a [[fear of missing out]] in the consumer.
# When customer support is requested regarding the subscription, only an FAQ or chatbot is provided.
# The subscription provides the functionality that was previously free, a process known as [[enshittification]].

== Broader implications ==

===Subscription-based economy===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260210224358/https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/ Archived])</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250818080626/https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence Archived])</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Creative Suite activation#Removal of Adobe Lightroom perpetual licensing|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with Netflix subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250722152022/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 Archived])</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.{{Citation needed|reason=1 Apr 2026}}

==Examples of modern subscriptions==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Netflix, Inc.]]</blockquote>Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Game Pass]]</blockquote>Game Pass, also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Nintendo Switch Online]] </blockquote>Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250429154131/https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/ Archived])</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Enshittification

2026-04-01T13:44:10Z

Reform: Small wording update

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Some sections are lacking adequate source population or quality|Issue 2=Some sections are far too brief, or aren't even written|Issue 3=Lack of depth; there's not enough links of data that connects each stage together, not to mention real-world examples of companies going through the full process.}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Platform decay''', commonly known as '''[[wikipedia:Enshittification|Enshittification]]''' or '''crapification''', is a practice in which companies (usually large ones) allow the quality of the products or services they provide to decline over time.

The term was first coined by tech blogger [[wikipedia:Cory Doctorow|Cory Doctorow]] in November 2022<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=28 Nov 2022 |title=Pluralistic: How monopoly enshittified Amazon/28 Nov 2022 |url=https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Pluralistic |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216121528/https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>, popularized by Arun Maini (Mrwhosetheboss)<ref>[https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Popular tech YouTuber exposes why 'broken' Google Search is falling apart] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251117215634/https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Archived])</ref><ref>The Internet is starting to Break - Here's Why. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref><ref>Why Google Search is Falling Apart. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref>, and has since gained widespread recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=enshittification |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Merriam-Webster |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222030743/https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

==How it works==
The platform decay practice is done in three stages. Initially, the companies create high-quality products or service offerings, usually by offering users a product or service at a low price (or sometimes for free). This works as an easy way to attract users and consumers and undercut the competition. Later, the offerings and platform quality decline, often with subtle changes, worsening users' experience during a transition to prioritize business customer profits. At the end, they decline quality for both regular and business customers to prioritize shareholder profits.

It is an effective practice amongst large corporations that offer a monopoly product or service. When there's no significant competence, the enshittification may persist longer, as users may be unable to leave the platform because they're used to it or because they can't find similar alternatives that meet their needs. These practices could also cause provider companies to incur irreparable reputational damage. According to Cory Doctorow on ''Wired,'' 2023:

<blockquote>''"It is a seemingly inevitable consequence arising from the combination of the ease of changing how a platform allocates value, combined with the nature of a "two-sided market," where a platform sits between buyers and sellers, holding each hostage to the other, raking off an ever-larger share of the value that passes between them."'' <ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=23 Jan 2023 |title=The ‘Enshittification’ of TikTok |url=https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=WIRED |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120085207/https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref></blockquote>
===1. Incentivizing mass adoption===
Companies begin by offering a product or service that provides a high-quality experience or usage for users, while constantly listening to user feedback. Another common practice to attract users is to offer a low or affordable price for most consumers. They basically create something "too good" to be free or low-cost. This leads to a visible, well-known product or service that makes it easy to build communities and user bases.

A documented example of this phase is [[Uber]] aggressively using investor capital to fund massive subsidies, paying to acquire both drivers and passengers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How Uber Disrupted An Industry With An Explosive Approach |url=https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study#:~:text=Uber%20combined%20that%20initial%20campaign,rider%20sides%20faster%20and%20easier. |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112132833/https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref> It was initially well-received for offering competitive transportation prices, leading to a large user base adopting the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wolff |first=Micheal |date=22 Dec 2013 |title=Wolff: The tech company of the year is Uber |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=USA TODAY |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250414222632/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |archive-date=14 Apr 2025}}</ref>

===2. Catering to business clients===
Once the communities and user bases are stable, companies begin offering and partnering with business customers, providing strong incentives. These partnerships and this new profit-making focus are responsible for eroding the user experience through tactics such as ads and sponsored content.

A documented example of this phase is seen in the case of [[Reddit]] removing free access to its API near the time of its Initial public offering (IPO).<ref name="TheVergeAnnouncement">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Reddit's upcoming API changes will make AI companies pony up |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230614020642/https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |archive-date=June 14, 2023 |access-date=June 17, 2023 |work=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> Then, in 2024, Reddit struck a $60 million deal with [[Google]] to grant access to its user-generated content for AI training data.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tong |first=Anna |last2=Wang |first2=Echo |last3=Coulter |first3=Martin |last4=Tong |first4=Anna |last5=Wang |first5=Echo |date=2024-02-22 |title=Exclusive: Reddit in AI content licensing deal with Google |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |access-date=2025-06-20 |work=Reuters |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112221447/https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===3. Quality degradation for shareholders===
When both users and business partners are locked in, the company shifts its surpluses to the shareholders. It no longer has any incentive to grow or maintain quality for either of its customer bases and relentlessly seeks profit at any rate for the shareholders. Companies at this stage also tend to have such a large market presence that switching barriers naturally (or intentionally) fall into place for those trying to leave for alternatives.

An ongoing example is [[YouTube]]'s [[YouTube#Crackdown against ad-blockers|crackdown on users using ad-blockers]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube intensifies crackdown on ad blockers {{!}} AdGuard |url=https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=AdGuard Blog |language=en}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251211160954/https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html Archived])</ref> While such a crackdown might reduce [[Ad block|ad-blocker]] usage and increase short-term shareholder returns, it degrades the experience for users and reduces the quality of impressions for advertisers. Over 30% of the world's population uses YouTube, with a ~98% market share in online video media.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube - Market Share, Competitor Insights in Media Players And Streaming Platforms |url=https://www.6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=6sense |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250429132430/https://6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |archive-date=29 Apr 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=23 Essential YouTube Statistics You Need to Know in 2025 |url=https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=The Social Shepherd |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124141601/https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Why it is a problem==

===Erosion of user experiences===
It can cause frustration among customers, for example [[Netflix]] has started locking down movies behind expensive plans, so customers are frustrated into subscribing to a more expensive plan.

Enshittification can also lead to [[wikipedia:Feature creep|feature creep]] - especially when new features of a product are intended to further lock in users and increase revenue. This creep can lead to an overall reduction in performance due to [[Bloatware|bloat]] and increased complexity, reducing a product's usability. A prime example of feature creep caused in large part by late-stage enshittification is [[Microsoft Windows]].

===Switching barriers===
Enshittified platforms that act as intermediaries can act as both a monopoly on services and a monopsony on customers, as high switching barriers prevent either from leaving even when better alternatives technically exist. These barriers can be intentionally put in place - such as restricting the user's ability to transfer data or communicate between platforms - or unintentional, such as a platform's userbase being so large that it naturally makes it near impossible for users or partners to find equivalent engagement on an alternative platform.

An example of this would be a long-time [[eBay]] seller hoping to leave the site for an alternative with lower fees (possibly Mercari or Etsy). They might first encounter issues migrating all of their listings over to the new platform; a process which could be tedious. Their feedback history will certainly not carry over to the new platform so buyers are initially less likely to view them as trustworthy, potentially impacting sales. Lastly, the alternative platform likely has a vastly smaller userbase than eBay so despite all the possible benefits - the seller is less likely to be successful on the new platform than they are on eBay.

Such switching barriers can create an adversarial relationship between platform users or business partners and the company they're dependent on. The users or partners cannot be successful without access to the wide reach of the platform - but it leaves them wholly dependent on a company that no longer has their best interests in mind.

===Platform death===
A potential end-scenario for enshittified platforms is death, usually caused by a large enough exodus of users and business partners, and a general loss of trust. A platform may not truly "die" per se, but it can completely lose the identity that made it successful in the first place - and might not ever regain it. An ongoing example is [[X Corp|Twitter]] post Elon Musk's takeover. Under its new ownership and branding, the platform drove away swathes of its userbase and advertisers to alternative platforms (such as [[Bluesky]]) after its policy shifts proved widely unpopular.

However, the death of an enshittified platform is not an entirely positive end result. It uproots a long established userbase and can greatly disrupt their activities. There is also the chance that alternative platforms lack of feature parities with the old platform or that it might not even be able to support the massive influx of new users - at least for some amount of time. At worst, data loss could be involved meaning years worth of information - if not archived beforehand - could potentially be lost if a platform shuts down in some capacity.

==Common signs==
Products and services that are affected by enshittification usually apply these practices (that could be subtle at first) on their product or services:

*Modifications of [[terms of service]] or [[terms of use]] to include anti-consumer practices.
*[[Advertising overload]] to prioritize advertiser profits and encourage users to pay to disable (or limit) visible ads.
*[[Pay-walling]] or limiting functions or features, usually ones that used to be free at first. This can also end into [[monetization overload]]. In some cases, a function or feature might be completely removed.
*Integration of [[Bloatware]].
*Price gouging or [[Value based pricing|surge pricing]].
*In physical products, usage of lower-quality or durability materials to manufacture the products in order to minimize costs. In some cases, this practice is alongside with [[planned obsolescence]].
*In software, low-quality updates and features, with some cases involving in the usage of [[AI slop]].
*Provider companies ignoring user feedback that involves in reverting or removing features that reduce partnership or shareholder profitting.
*Difficulties or inabilities to remove a paying method or to cancel a subscription.

==Examples==
===E-commerce===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Amazon]], [[eBay]]}}
In Doctorow's original post, he discussed the practices of [[Amazon]]. The online retailer initially drew in users with products sold below cost and free shipping. Once its userbase was well established, more sellers began to sell their products through Amazon. Finally, Amazon began to add fees to increase profits. In 2023, over 45% of the sale price of items went to Amazon in the form of various fees. Amazon also allows sellers the ability to push their listing higher in search results via its paid Sponsored Products program. Doctorow described advertisement within Amazon as a payola scheme in which sellers bid against one another for search-ranking preference, and said that the first five pages of a search for "cat beds" were half advertisements

eBay is another e-commerce site that followed a similar trajectory, initially offering low fees and a robust buying/selling protection system. Once its userbase of largely secondhand buyers and sellers was solidified, eBay raised seller fees and began incentivizing large volume sellers - often actual businesses - with lower selling fees should they subscribe to eBay Store. eBay sellers are also no longer able to leave negative feedback for buyers, greatly reducing the ability of sellers to avoid bad actors. Since then, eBay has introduced promoted listings that are effectively analogous to Amazon's paid sponsored listing system. eBay has also encouraged sellers to use AI generated descriptions that often misrepresent the condition of items being sold, along with opting all of its users into in-house AI training [[Ebay AI opt in by default|by default]] as of its April 21, 2025 privacy policy revision.

===Media streaming platforms===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Netflix]], [[Prime Video]], [[Disney+]]}}
The enshittification of Netflix is similarly reflected in other competing streaming platforms such as YouTube TV and Amazon Prime Video, where prices have increased despite a decline (or at least no perceivable improvement) in overall service quality. Multiple providers have also downgraded their cheapest paid plans to now come bundled with ads.

===Search engines===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Google]], [[Bing]]}}
Google started as an ad-free search engine, but then it started to add sponsored links in the top of the searchs and making them less distinguishable between non-ad links. {{Citation needed}} In 2024, Google started rolling out AI Overview, an AI-generated summary that appears at the top of the search results. Due to the release was rushed and didn't have proper revisions, the AI Overview showed inaccurate and potentially dangerous overviews, such as encouraging eating rocks, suggesting putting glue on top of pizza as a solution to cheese sliding off, encouraging smoking during pregnancy, encouraging suicide and suggesting users to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Goodwin |first=Danny |date=24 May 2024 |title=Google AI Overviews under fire for giving dangerous and wrong answers |url=https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623180113/https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |archive-date=23 Jun 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=Search Engine Land}}</ref> Google has responded to those issues and temporarily disabled the AI overview. While those incidents have been fixed and the AI Overview has been made available again, the AI overview still shows inaccurate results caused by hallucinations, biases and citing non-fiable sources, often citing satire comments as factual sources, or making stuff up. The AI overview has also been criticized for being considered as unwanted or unnecessary, for being environmentally harmful, privacy concerns and for reducing traffic towards genuine sites, encouraging people to rely on the overview instead of visiting sites to obtain the information they're looking for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=Google Discover adds AI summaries, threatening publishers with further traffic declines |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718124612/https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bellan |first=Rebecca |date=10 Jun 2025 |title=Google’s AI search features are killing traffic to publishers |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250714040741/https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |archive-date=14 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref>

===Social media===

====Facebook====
{{Main|Facebook}}
[[Facebook]] has shifted from a network for personal connection to a platform dominated by advertising and algorithmic manipulation. User data is monetised at the expense of privacy, while the quality of organic content has steadily declined.

====Instagram====
{{Main|Instagram}}
Instagram once centred on creativity and social sharing, Instagram now prioritises sponsored posts, shopping features, and influencer marketing. Users’ ability to control their feeds has been reduced, reflecting the platform’s focus on profit over consumer experience.

=====Reddit=====
{{Main|Reddit}}
Reddit’s 2023 API changes exemplify enshitification, undermining community tools and third-party apps in favour of advertising revenue. This has eroded user autonomy and restricted consumer choice.

====Twitter/X====
{{Main|X Corp}}
Following its acquisition and rebrand, Twitter/X introduced [[Pay-walling|paywalls]] for basic features, weakened its moderation and increased sponsored content. The result has ended into a degraded service and a diminished consumer experience.

====TikTok====
{{Main|TikTok}}
TikTok’s powerful recommendation algorithm drives engagement but also funnels users into repetitive content while saturating feeds with advertising. Concerns over data exploitation further highlight the imbalance between corporate gain and consumer rights.

====YouTube====
{{Main|YouTube}}
YouTube has expanded ad loads and aggressively promoted subscriptions, while algorithmic changes often disadvantage independent creators. Consumers face reduced choice and increased intrusion, hallmarks of enshitification.

====Discord====
{{Main|Discord}}
Discord's primary selling point is that it is the most-used method of online communication, especially for communities.{{Citation needed}} Because of this dominance, it has caused barriers for users intending to switch to alternative platforms such as Stoat or Matrix, as a lack of common users between platforms makes it difficult for more users to transfer over.{{Citation needed}} This fact has been abused by Discord with its infrastructure showing signs of decay,{{Citation needed}} the introduction of advertisements in the format of "quests",{{Citation needed}} and the degradation of free perks.{{Citation needed}}

===Software===

====Adobe====
{{Main|Adobe}}
'''Users losing their perpetual licenses''': Starting in 2013 with Creative Cloud, Adobe eliminated the option to purchase perpetual licenses for core products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere. Users must now maintain an ongoing subscription to access the software at all. Cancelling payments disables applications regardless of prior investment, dramatically increasing long-term costs and removing user ownership in favor of recurring subscriptions.
'''Loss of files on deactivated products''': Many Adobe file formats (PSD, AI, INDD, AE project files) are proprietary and poorly supported by third-party software. When a subscription ends, users become unable to open, export, or meaningfully edit their own historical work, effectively creating [[data lock-in]] for user-created content to enforce continued payment.

'''Mandatory Creative Cloud account:''' Through the application of [[Digital rights management|DRM]] for offline tools, software that normally runs locally requires frequent online authentication through the Creative Cloud desktop app. Forced sign-ins, background services, and periodic license checks can disable software unexpectedly, undermining reliability and making professional tools dependent on Adobe’s servers.

'''Dark patterns in subscription cancellation:''' Adobe’s subscription plans use confusing billing structures (such as “annual plans billed monthly”) that impose early termination fees. Cancellation flows are [[Dark pattern|deliberately complex]], with obscured options and repeated retention prompts, resulting in users paying longer than intended or being penalized for leaving.

====Microsoft Windows====
{{Main|Microsoft Windows 11}}
'''Forced Microsoft account sign-in:''' Beginning with Windows 10 and further enforced in Windows 11, Microsoft increasingly requires users to sign in with a Microsoft account during setup. This restricts offline use, obscures the option to create a local account, and facilitates expanded telemetry collection and ecosystem lock-in.

'''Baked-in advertising:''' Despite being a commercial software, Windows includes advertisements and promotional content in the Start Menu, lock screen, system notifications, and settings panels, used to promote Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and other services and other proprietary software. Even when users disable these features, they are frequently re-enabled after major updates.

'''Dark patterns in first-party applications''': Microsoft applications repeatedly nudge users toward Microsoft-preferred choices. Edge persistently prompts users to become the default browser and displays warnings when switching away. OneDrive frames cloud uploads as “protecting your files,” obscuring the fact that local folders are being redirected to Microsoft’s servers. Subscription prompts often lack a clear “Never ask again” option, offering only choices such as “Try for free” or “Maybe later” as in Microsoft365. Windows U.S.

'''Baked-in telemetry:''' Telemetry and diagnostic data collection are enabled by default, particularly in non-Enterprise editions, with only limited controls available to disable or reduce them. Most data collection is vaguely documented, undermining informed consent.

'''Loss of user control over updates''': Windows updates cannot be permanently disabled through standard settings. Users can only defer updates for a limited period (up to four weeks), after which downloads and installations are often forced, sometimes causing unexpected restarts or re-enabling previously disabled features without user consent.

'''Degraded local search in favor of web search:''' The start menu and file search experience has progressively gotten worse, blending local results with Bing web searches. This often prioritizes online content and advertisements over fast, predictable local file and application discovery, reducing usability in order to promote Microsoft’s search and advertising ecosystem.

===Video Games===

====Unity====
{{Main|Unity}}
Unity Software Inc. implemented sweeping changes to its pricing model for Unity that would affect all users of the engine, forcing users to either adopt their per-download fee or de-list their games.

====Mobile Games====
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Apple App Store]], [[Google Play Store]]}}
A lot of mobile games have fell into enshittified experiences. [[Free to Play]] business model took off with users being bombarded with ads, [[Microtransactions|micro-transactions]], [[Battle passes|battle-passes]], energy-systems and more, to extract as much money out of the player's pocket, while making the experience less fun. The video game Angry-Birds is a good example of this. What started as a very simple game now has all of the aforementioned tactics baked into it, rendering the playing experience tedious and unpleasant.

==Possible solutions==

===Legislations and movements===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[GDPR]], [[Free software movement]]}}

===Right of exit===
{{see also|Click-to-cancel|Interoperability}}

The right of exit, or Data portability, is the right of a user to leave a platform without losing the data stored on it, and instead being able to export it and access it in various applications of the user's liking.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DataPortability Project |url=http://www.dataportability.org/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090723171111/http://www.dataportability.org/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2009 |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=DataPortability}}</ref>

==Further reading==

*https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/30/go-nuts-meine-kerle/#ich-bin-ein-bratapfel
*https://www.darkpattern.games/

==External links==

*[https://youtu.be/T4Upf_B9RLQ "A Day in the Life of an Ensh*ttificator"], by [https://www.youtube.com/@Forbrukerr%C3%A5detNorge Forbrukerrådet - Norwegian Consumer Council], 2026
*[https://youtu.be/NBZv0_MImIY "Y'all mind if I complain for 15 minutes?"], by [[wikipedia:Jaiden_Animations|Jaiden Dittfach]], 2025. In this video, she talks about how things have "become less efficient" and "more stupid".
*[https://eev.ee/blog/2025/07/03/the-rise-of-whatever/ "The rise of Whatever"]
*[https://gavinhoward.com/2023/11/your-loved-ones-are-prisoners-and-you-made-the-chain "Digital chains and modern feudalism"]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Theme]]

Enshittification

2026-04-01T13:41:38Z

Reform: Styling according to wiki style guide and legibility concerns I had

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Some sections are lacking adequate source population or quality|Issue 2=Some sections are far too brief, or aren't even written|Issue 3=Lack of depth; there's not enough links of data that connects each stage together, not to mention real-world examples of companies going through the full process.}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Platform decay''', commonly known as '''[[wikipedia:Enshittification|Enshittification]]''' or '''crapification''', is a practice in which companies (usually large ones) allow the quality of the products or services they provide to decline over time.

The term was first coined by tech blogger [[wikipedia:Cory Doctorow|Cory Doctorow]] in November 2022<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=28 Nov 2022 |title=Pluralistic: How monopoly enshittified Amazon/28 Nov 2022 |url=https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Pluralistic |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216121528/https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>, popularized by Arun Maini (Mrwhosetheboss)<ref>[https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Popular tech YouTuber exposes why 'broken' Google Search is falling apart] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251117215634/https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Archived])</ref><ref>The Internet is starting to Break - Here's Why. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref><ref>Why Google Search is Falling Apart. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref>, and has since gained widespread recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=enshittification |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Merriam-Webster |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222030743/https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

==How it works==
The platform decay practice is done in three stages. Initially, the companies create high-quality products or service offerings, usually by offering users a product or service at a low price (or sometimes for free). This works as an easy way to attract users and consumers and undercut the competition. Later, the offerings and platform quality decline, often with subtle changes, worsening users' experience during a transition to prioritize business customer profits. At the end, they decline quality for both regular and business customers to prioritize shareholder profits.

Enshittification is also a common practice amongst large corporations that offer a monopoly product or service. When there's no significant competence, the enshittification may persist longer, as users may be unable to leave the platform because they're used to it or because they can't find similar alternatives that meet their needs.

These practices could also cause provider companies to incur irreparable reputational damage or even fall into bankruptcy in some cases.

<blockquote>''"It is a seemingly inevitable consequence arising from the combination of the ease of changing how a platform allocates value, combined with the nature of a "two-sided market," where a platform sits between buyers and sellers, holding each hostage to the other, raking off an ever-larger share of the value that passes between them."'' <ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=23 Jan 2023 |title=The ‘Enshittification’ of TikTok |url=https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=WIRED |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120085207/https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref></blockquote>- Cory Doctorow ''Wired,'' 2023

===1. Incentivizing mass adoption===
Companies begin by offering a product or service that provides a high-quality experience or usage for users, while constantly listening to user feedback. Another common practice to attract users is to offer a low or affordable price for most consumers. They basically create something "too good" to be free or low-cost. This leads to a visible, well-known product or service that makes it easy to build communities and user bases.

A documented example of this phase is [[Uber]] aggressively using investor capital to fund massive subsidies, paying to acquire both drivers and passengers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How Uber Disrupted An Industry With An Explosive Approach |url=https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study#:~:text=Uber%20combined%20that%20initial%20campaign,rider%20sides%20faster%20and%20easier. |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112132833/https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref> It was initially well-received for offering competitive transportation prices, leading to a large user base adopting the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wolff |first=Micheal |date=22 Dec 2013 |title=Wolff: The tech company of the year is Uber |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=USA TODAY |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250414222632/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |archive-date=14 Apr 2025}}</ref>

===2. Catering to business clients===
Once the communities and user bases are stable, companies begin offering and partnering with business customers, providing strong incentives. These partnerships and this new profit-making focus are responsible for eroding the user experience through tactics such as ads and sponsored content.

A documented example of this phase is seen in the case of [[Reddit]] removing free access to its API near the time of its Initial public offering (IPO).<ref name="TheVergeAnnouncement">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Reddit's upcoming API changes will make AI companies pony up |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230614020642/https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |archive-date=June 14, 2023 |access-date=June 17, 2023 |work=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> Then, in 2024, Reddit struck a $60 million deal with [[Google]] to grant access to its user-generated content for AI training data.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tong |first=Anna |last2=Wang |first2=Echo |last3=Coulter |first3=Martin |last4=Tong |first4=Anna |last5=Wang |first5=Echo |date=2024-02-22 |title=Exclusive: Reddit in AI content licensing deal with Google |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |access-date=2025-06-20 |work=Reuters |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112221447/https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===3. Quality degradation for shareholders===
When both users and business partners are locked in, the company shifts its surpluses to the shareholders. It no longer has any incentive to grow or maintain quality for either of its customer bases and relentlessly seeks profit at any rate for the shareholders. Companies at this stage also tend to have such a large market presence that switching barriers naturally (or intentionally) fall into place for those trying to leave for alternatives.

An ongoing example is [[YouTube]]'s [[YouTube#Crackdown against ad-blockers|crackdown on users using ad-blockers]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube intensifies crackdown on ad blockers {{!}} AdGuard |url=https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=AdGuard Blog |language=en}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251211160954/https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html Archived])</ref> While such a crackdown might reduce [[Ad block|ad-blocker]] usage and increase short-term shareholder returns, it degrades the experience for users and reduces the quality of impressions for advertisers. Over 30% of the world's population uses YouTube, with a ~98% market share in online video media.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube - Market Share, Competitor Insights in Media Players And Streaming Platforms |url=https://www.6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=6sense |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250429132430/https://6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |archive-date=29 Apr 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=23 Essential YouTube Statistics You Need to Know in 2025 |url=https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=The Social Shepherd |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124141601/https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Why it is a problem==

===Erosion of user experiences===
It can cause frustration among customers, for example [[Netflix]] has started locking down movies behind expensive plans, so customers are frustrated into subscribing to a more expensive plan.

Enshittification can also lead to [[wikipedia:Feature creep|feature creep]] - especially when new features of a product are intended to further lock in users and increase revenue. This creep can lead to an overall reduction in performance due to [[Bloatware|bloat]] and increased complexity, reducing a product's usability. A prime example of feature creep caused in large part by late-stage enshittification is [[Microsoft Windows]].

===Switching barriers===
Enshittified platforms that act as intermediaries can act as both a monopoly on services and a monopsony on customers, as high switching barriers prevent either from leaving even when better alternatives technically exist. These barriers can be intentionally put in place - such as restricting the user's ability to transfer data or communicate between platforms - or unintentional, such as a platform's userbase being so large that it naturally makes it near impossible for users or partners to find equivalent engagement on an alternative platform.

An example of this would be a long-time [[eBay]] seller hoping to leave the site for an alternative with lower fees (possibly Mercari or Etsy). They might first encounter issues migrating all of their listings over to the new platform; a process which could be tedious. Their feedback history will certainly not carry over to the new platform so buyers are initially less likely to view them as trustworthy, potentially impacting sales. Lastly, the alternative platform likely has a vastly smaller userbase than eBay so despite all the possible benefits - the seller is less likely to be successful on the new platform than they are on eBay.

Such switching barriers can create an adversarial relationship between platform users or business partners and the company they're dependent on. The users or partners cannot be successful without access to the wide reach of the platform - but it leaves them wholly dependent on a company that no longer has their best interests in mind.

===Platform death===
A potential end-scenario for enshittified platforms is death, usually caused by a large enough exodus of users and business partners, and a general loss of trust. A platform may not truly "die" per se, but it can completely lose the identity that made it successful in the first place - and might not ever regain it. An ongoing example is [[X Corp|Twitter]] post Elon Musk's takeover. Under its new ownership and branding, the platform drove away swathes of its userbase and advertisers to alternative platforms (such as [[Bluesky]]) after its policy shifts proved widely unpopular.

However, the death of an enshittified platform is not an entirely positive end result. It uproots a long established userbase and can greatly disrupt their activities. There is also the chance that alternative platforms lack of feature parities with the old platform or that it might not even be able to support the massive influx of new users - at least for some amount of time. At worst, data loss could be involved meaning years worth of information - if not archived beforehand - could potentially be lost if a platform shuts down in some capacity.

==Common signs==
Products and services that are affected by enshittification usually apply these practices (that could be subtle at first) on their product or services:

*Modifications of [[terms of service]] or [[terms of use]] to include anti-consumer practices.
*[[Advertising overload]] to prioritize advertiser profits and encourage users to pay to disable (or limit) visible ads.
*[[Pay-walling]] or limiting functions or features, usually ones that used to be free at first. This can also end into [[monetization overload]]. In some cases, a function or feature might be completely removed.
*Integration of [[Bloatware]].
*Price gouging or [[Value based pricing|surge pricing]].
*In physical products, usage of lower-quality or durability materials to manufacture the products in order to minimize costs. In some cases, this practice is alongside with [[planned obsolescence]].
*In software, low-quality updates and features, with some cases involving in the usage of [[AI slop]].
*Provider companies ignoring user feedback that involves in reverting or removing features that reduce partnership or shareholder profitting.
*Difficulties or inabilities to remove a paying method or to cancel a subscription.

==Examples==
===E-commerce===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Amazon]], [[eBay]]}}
In Doctorow's original post, he discussed the practices of [[Amazon]]. The online retailer initially drew in users with products sold below cost and free shipping. Once its userbase was well established, more sellers began to sell their products through Amazon. Finally, Amazon began to add fees to increase profits. In 2023, over 45% of the sale price of items went to Amazon in the form of various fees. Amazon also allows sellers the ability to push their listing higher in search results via its paid Sponsored Products program. Doctorow described advertisement within Amazon as a payola scheme in which sellers bid against one another for search-ranking preference, and said that the first five pages of a search for "cat beds" were half advertisements

eBay is another e-commerce site that followed a similar trajectory, initially offering low fees and a robust buying/selling protection system. Once its userbase of largely secondhand buyers and sellers was solidified, eBay raised seller fees and began incentivizing large volume sellers - often actual businesses - with lower selling fees should they subscribe to eBay Store. eBay sellers are also no longer able to leave negative feedback for buyers, greatly reducing the ability of sellers to avoid bad actors. Since then, eBay has introduced promoted listings that are effectively analogous to Amazon's paid sponsored listing system. eBay has also encouraged sellers to use AI generated descriptions that often misrepresent the condition of items being sold, along with opting all of its users into in-house AI training [[Ebay AI opt in by default|by default]] as of its April 21, 2025 privacy policy revision.

===Media streaming platforms===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Netflix]], [[Prime Video]], [[Disney+]]}}
The enshittification of Netflix is similarly reflected in other competing streaming platforms such as YouTube TV and Amazon Prime Video, where prices have increased despite a decline (or at least no perceivable improvement) in overall service quality. Multiple providers have also downgraded their cheapest paid plans to now come bundled with ads.

===Search engines===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Google]], [[Bing]]}}
Google started as an ad-free search engine, but then it started to add sponsored links in the top of the searchs and making them less distinguishable between non-ad links. {{Citation needed}} In 2024, Google started rolling out AI Overview, an AI-generated summary that appears at the top of the search results. Due to the release was rushed and didn't have proper revisions, the AI Overview showed inaccurate and potentially dangerous overviews, such as encouraging eating rocks, suggesting putting glue on top of pizza as a solution to cheese sliding off, encouraging smoking during pregnancy, encouraging suicide and suggesting users to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Goodwin |first=Danny |date=24 May 2024 |title=Google AI Overviews under fire for giving dangerous and wrong answers |url=https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623180113/https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |archive-date=23 Jun 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=Search Engine Land}}</ref> Google has responded to those issues and temporarily disabled the AI overview. While those incidents have been fixed and the AI Overview has been made available again, the AI overview still shows inaccurate results caused by hallucinations, biases and citing non-fiable sources, often citing satire comments as factual sources, or making stuff up. The AI overview has also been criticized for being considered as unwanted or unnecessary, for being environmentally harmful, privacy concerns and for reducing traffic towards genuine sites, encouraging people to rely on the overview instead of visiting sites to obtain the information they're looking for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=Google Discover adds AI summaries, threatening publishers with further traffic declines |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718124612/https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bellan |first=Rebecca |date=10 Jun 2025 |title=Google’s AI search features are killing traffic to publishers |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250714040741/https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |archive-date=14 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref>

===Social media===

==== Facebook ====
{{Main|Facebook}}
[[Facebook]] has shifted from a network for personal connection to a platform dominated by advertising and algorithmic manipulation. User data is monetised at the expense of privacy, while the quality of organic content has steadily declined.

==== Instagram ====
{{Main|Instagram}}
Instagram once centred on creativity and social sharing, Instagram now prioritises sponsored posts, shopping features, and influencer marketing. Users’ ability to control their feeds has been reduced, reflecting the platform’s focus on profit over consumer experience.

===== Reddit =====
{{Main|Reddit}}
Reddit’s 2023 API changes exemplify enshitification, undermining community tools and third-party apps in favour of advertising revenue. This has eroded user autonomy and restricted consumer choice.

==== Twitter/X ====
{{Main|X Corp}}
Following its acquisition and rebrand, Twitter/X introduced [[Pay-walling|paywalls]] for basic features, weakened its moderation and increased sponsored content. The result has ended into a degraded service and a diminished consumer experience.

==== TikTok ====
{{Main|TikTok}}
TikTok’s powerful recommendation algorithm drives engagement but also funnels users into repetitive content while saturating feeds with advertising. Concerns over data exploitation further highlight the imbalance between corporate gain and consumer rights.

==== YouTube ====
{{Main|YouTube}}
YouTube has expanded ad loads and aggressively promoted subscriptions, while algorithmic changes often disadvantage independent creators. Consumers face reduced choice and increased intrusion, hallmarks of enshitification.

==== Discord ====
{{Main|Discord}}
Discord's primary selling point is that it is the most-used method of online communication, especially for communities.{{Citation needed}} Because of this dominance, it has caused barriers for users intending to switch to alternative platforms such as Stoat or Matrix, as a lack of common users between platforms makes it difficult for more users to transfer over.{{Citation needed}} This fact has been abused by Discord with its infrastructure showing signs of decay,{{Citation needed}} the introduction of advertisements in the format of "quests",{{Citation needed}} and the degradation of free perks.{{Citation needed}}

===Software===

==== Adobe ====
{{Main|Adobe}}
'''Users losing their perpetual licenses''': Starting in 2013 with Creative Cloud, Adobe eliminated the option to purchase perpetual licenses for core products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere. Users must now maintain an ongoing subscription to access the software at all. Cancelling payments disables applications regardless of prior investment, dramatically increasing long-term costs and removing user ownership in favor of recurring subscriptions.
'''Loss of files on deactivated products''': Many Adobe file formats (PSD, AI, INDD, AE project files) are proprietary and poorly supported by third-party software. When a subscription ends, users become unable to open, export, or meaningfully edit their own historical work, effectively creating [[data lock-in]] for user-created content to enforce continued payment.

'''Mandatory Creative Cloud account:''' Through the application of [[Digital rights management|DRM]] for offline tools, software that normally runs locally requires frequent online authentication through the Creative Cloud desktop app. Forced sign-ins, background services, and periodic license checks can disable software unexpectedly, undermining reliability and making professional tools dependent on Adobe’s servers.

'''Dark patterns in subscription cancellation:''' Adobe’s subscription plans use confusing billing structures (such as “annual plans billed monthly”) that impose early termination fees. Cancellation flows are [[Dark pattern|deliberately complex]], with obscured options and repeated retention prompts, resulting in users paying longer than intended or being penalized for leaving.

==== Microsoft Windows ====
{{Main|Microsoft Windows 11}}
'''Forced Microsoft account sign-in:''' Beginning with Windows 10 and further enforced in Windows 11, Microsoft increasingly requires users to sign in with a Microsoft account during setup. This restricts offline use, obscures the option to create a local account, and facilitates expanded telemetry collection and ecosystem lock-in.

'''Baked-in advertising:''' Despite being a commercial software, Windows includes advertisements and promotional content in the Start Menu, lock screen, system notifications, and settings panels, used to promote Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and other services and other proprietary software. Even when users disable these features, they are frequently re-enabled after major updates.

'''Dark patterns in first-party applications''': Microsoft applications repeatedly nudge users toward Microsoft-preferred choices. Edge persistently prompts users to become the default browser and displays warnings when switching away. OneDrive frames cloud uploads as “protecting your files,” obscuring the fact that local folders are being redirected to Microsoft’s servers. Subscription prompts often lack a clear “Never ask again” option, offering only choices such as “Try for free” or “Maybe later” as in Microsoft365. Windows U.S.

'''Baked-in telemetry:''' Telemetry and diagnostic data collection are enabled by default, particularly in non-Enterprise editions, with only limited controls available to disable or reduce them. Most data collection is vaguely documented, undermining informed consent.

'''Loss of user control over updates''': Windows updates cannot be permanently disabled through standard settings. Users can only defer updates for a limited period (up to four weeks), after which downloads and installations are often forced, sometimes causing unexpected restarts or re-enabling previously disabled features without user consent.

'''Degraded local search in favor of web search:''' The start menu and file search experience has progressively gotten worse, blending local results with Bing web searches. This often prioritizes online content and advertisements over fast, predictable local file and application discovery, reducing usability in order to promote Microsoft’s search and advertising ecosystem.

=== Video Games ===

==== Unity ====
{{Main|Unity}}
Unity Software Inc. implemented sweeping changes to its pricing model for Unity that would affect all users of the engine, forcing users to either adopt their per-download fee or de-list their games.

==== Mobile Games ====
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Apple App Store]], [[Google Play Store]]}}
A lot of mobile games have fell into enshittified experiences. [[Free to Play]] business model took off with users being bombarded with ads, [[Microtransactions|micro-transactions]], [[Battle passes|battle-passes]], energy-systems and more, to extract as much money out of the player's pocket, while making the experience less fun. The video game Angry-Birds is a good example of this. What started as a very simple game now has all of the aforementioned tactics baked into it, rendering the playing experience tedious and unpleasant.

==Possible solutions==

===Legislations and movements===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[GDPR]], [[Free software movement]]}}

===Right of exit===
{{see also|Click-to-cancel|Interoperability}}

The right of exit, or Data portability, is the right of a user to leave a platform without losing the data stored on it, and instead being able to export it and access it in various applications of the user's liking.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DataPortability Project |url=http://www.dataportability.org/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090723171111/http://www.dataportability.org/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2009 |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=DataPortability}}</ref>

==Further reading==

*https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/30/go-nuts-meine-kerle/#ich-bin-ein-bratapfel
*https://www.darkpattern.games/

==External links==

*[https://youtu.be/T4Upf_B9RLQ "A Day in the Life of an Ensh*ttificator"], by [https://www.youtube.com/@Forbrukerr%C3%A5detNorge Forbrukerrådet - Norwegian Consumer Council], 2026
*[https://youtu.be/NBZv0_MImIY "Y'all mind if I complain for 15 minutes?"], by [[wikipedia:Jaiden_Animations|Jaiden Dittfach]], 2025. In this video, she talks about how things have "become less efficient" and "more stupid".
*[https://eev.ee/blog/2025/07/03/the-rise-of-whatever/ "The rise of Whatever"]
*[https://gavinhoward.com/2023/11/your-loved-ones-are-prisoners-and-you-made-the-chain "Digital chains and modern feudalism"]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Theme]]

John Deere

2026-04-01T13:00:28Z

Reform: 2 small link updates

{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment.
|Founded=1837
|Industry=Agricultural Machinery, Heavy Equipment
|Logo=John Deere logo.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Public
|Website=https://deere.com/
}}
[[wikipedia:John_Deere|John Deere]] is a leading manufacturer of agricultural and heavy machinery. Founded in 1837, the company is primarily known for its heavy-duty agricultural equipment, such as tractors and combines. Recently, its business practices, particularly concerning equipment repair, have faced criticism. These practices have raised concerns among farmers, independent repair technicians, and consumer-advocacy groups.<ref name="jdflrtrt">{{Cite web |last=Selyukh |first=Alina |date=16 Jan 2025 |title=John Deere faces U.S. lawsuit over farmers' ability to repair tractors |url=https://www.npr.org/2025/01/15/nx-s1-5260895/john-deere-ftc-lawsuit-right-to-repair-tractors |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250503174931/https://www.npr.org/2025/01/15/nx-s1-5260895/john-deere-ftc-lawsuit-right-to-repair-tractors |archive-date=3 May 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=www.npr.org}}</ref>

==Consumer impact summary==
[[File:John deere doc.png|thumb|524x524px|Front Page of the FTC's Suit Against John Deere<ref name="DCRCCN325">[https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/DeereCoREDACTEDComplaintCaseNo325-cv-50017.pdf UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS WESTERN DIVISION] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260221171915/https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/DeereCoREDACTEDComplaintCaseNo325-cv-50017.pdf Archived])</ref>]]

===Repairability===
Access to essential repair software and diagnostic tools is reportedly limited by John Deere.<ref name="dith3">{{Cite web |date=5 Feb 2021 |title=Deere in the Headlights |url=https://pirg.org/resources/deere-in-the-headlights-3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250404124159/https://pirg.org/resources/deere-in-the-headlights-3/ |archive-date=4 Apr 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=pirg.org}}</ref> Such restrictive policies can hinder farmers from performing repairs independently or utilizing independent repair shops, thereby necessitating reliance on authorized dealerships.<ref name="jdflrtrt" />

====Monopoly on repairs====
Farmers have reported that without access to John Deere's proprietary tools, they're unable to address certain mechanical issues, even minor ones.<ref name="fssdcp">{{Cite web |date=15 Jan 2025 |title=FTC, States Sue Deere & Company to Protect Farmers from Unfair Corporate Tactics, High Repair Costs |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/01/ftc-states-sue-deere-company-protect-farmers-unfair-corporate-tactics-high-repair-costs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250429162248/https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/01/ftc-states-sue-deere-company-protect-farmers-unfair-corporate-tactics-high-repair-costs |archive-date=29 Apr 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=[[FTC]]}}</ref> There are measures in place that prevent independent repair technicians from completing repair,<ref name="dith3" /> such as:

*[[Activation|Software locks]] that control user autonomy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=O'Reilly |first=Kevin |date=18 Jul 2023 |title=Service Obstructor: John Deere software restricts farmer repair |url=https://pirg.org/edfund/resources/john-deere-repair-software/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250622174115/https://pirg.org/edfund/resources/john-deere-repair-software/ |archive-date=22 June 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=pirg.org}}</ref>
*Requiring access to proprietary software.<ref name="fssdcp" />
*Controlling access to repair resources and parts.<ref name="fssdcp" />

Through eliminating competition in the repair market, John Deere has allegedly unlawfully inflated repair cost.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Byrnes |first=Dave |date=15 Jan 2025 |title=FTC accuses John Deere of unlawful equipment repair practices |url=https://www.courthousenews.com/ftc-accuses-john-deere-of-unlawful-equipment-repair-practices/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427213734/https://www.courthousenews.com/ftc-accuses-john-deere-of-unlawful-equipment-repair-practices/ |archive-date=27 Apr 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=Courthouse News Service}}</ref> To take back some control, mechanics and technicians are reportedly buying pirated John Deere firmware online to repair consumer tractors, at the risk of being scammed or clicking sketchy links.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=Koebler |first=Jason |date=21 Mar 2017 |title=Why American Farmers Are Hacking Their Tractors With Ukrainian Firmware |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/why-american-farmers-are-hacking-their-tractors-with-ukrainian-firmware/? |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250404160107/https://www.vice.com/en/article/why-american-farmers-are-hacking-their-tractors-with-ukrainian-firmware/ |archive-date=4 Apr 2025 |website=Vice}}</ref>

====Opposition to right-to-repair legislation====
John Deere has actively lobbied against [[Right to repair|right-to-repair]] legislation in multiple states, and on the federal level.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Proctor |first=Nathan |last2=Sherwood |first2=Will |date=27 Nov 2024 |title=John Deere and Right to Repair over the years |url=https://pirg.org/resources/john-deere-and-right-to-repair-over-the-years/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250510155839/https://pirg.org/resources/john-deere-and-right-to-repair-over-the-years/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |archive-date=10 May 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=pirg.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bamberg |first=Jennifer |date=17 Apr 2024 |title=Farmers’ long fight for the Right to Repair gets little traction in John Deere’s home state of Illinois |url=https://wisconsinwatch.org/2024/04/midwest-farmers-right-to-repair-agriculture-john-deere-illinois/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250510155926/https://wisconsinwatch.org/2024/04/midwest-farmers-right-to-repair-agriculture-john-deere-illinois/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |archive-date=10 May 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=Wisconsin Watch}}</ref> Despite signing a memorandum of understanding with the American Farm Bureau Federation in 2023, the company has been accused of undermining the spirit of the agreement.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dickey |first=Dave |date=12 Nov 2024 |title=Is John Deere’s day of reckoning soon at hand? |url=https://investigatemidwest.org/2024/11/12/is-john-deeres-day-of-reckoning-soon-at-hand/#:~:text=In%20a%20nutshell%3A%20Deere%20embeds%20authorization%20codes%20in,dealers%20have%20access%20to%20all%20the%20verification%20codes. |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428213115/https://investigatemidwest.org/2024/11/12/is-john-deeres-day-of-reckoning-soon-at-hand/ |archive-date=28 Apr 2025 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=Investigate Midwest}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=10 Jan 2023 |title=John Deere memo: Farmers have NOT won, but that won't stop the news from pretending they did. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-RgOUT3zeo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=7-RgOUT3zeo |archive-date=2 Apr 2023 |access-date=24 Apr 2025 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>

==Incidents==

This is a list of all consumer protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===FTC Lawsuit (''January 2025'')===
On January 15, 2025, the [[Federal Trade Commission]] (FTC) filed a lawsuit against John Deere, alleging anti-competitive practices in the repair market.<ref name="fssdcp" /><ref name="DCRCCN325" /> The lawsuit claims that:

*John Deere unlawfully inflated repair costs by monopolizing the repair-service market.
*The company's restrictive policies violated consumer-protection laws and limited farmers' ability to maintain their equipment.

===Security flaws exposed sensitive customer information (''2021'')===
{{Main|John Deere security flaws exposed sensitive customer information}}
A number of security flaws in the software John Deere provided could have allowed hackers to find and download the personal data of all owners of the company’s farming vehicles and equipment.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |author=Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai |date=22 April 2021 |title=Bugs Allowed Hackers to Dox John Deere Tractor Owners |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/bugs-allowed-hackers-to-dox-all-john-deere-owners/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251219042942/https://www.vice.com/en/article/bugs-allowed-hackers-to-dox-all-john-deere-owners/ |archive-date=19 Dec 2025 |publisher=Vice Media |language=en |format=article}}</ref> John Deere downplayed the impact while simultaneously increasing their security practices.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Laurie Bedord |date=23 Apr 2021 |title=John Deere Addresses the Ongoing Risks of Living in a Digital World |url=https://www.agriculture.com/news/technology/john-deere-addresses-the-risks-of-living-in-a-digital-world |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723043851/https://www.agriculture.com/news/technology/john-deere-addresses-the-risks-of-living-in-a-digital-world |archive-date=23 Jul 2025 |publisher=Successful Farming |language=en |format=article}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |author=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=25 Apr 2021 |title=John Deere instigates hackers, gets hacked again |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rB_SleNKBus |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=rB_SleNKBus |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |publisher=YouTube |language=en |format=video |ref=Rossmann-video-2}}</ref> Later in in 2024, security jobs opened and they started to partner up with security researchers.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Paul F. Roberts |date=14 Apr 2021 |title=184 Years In: Ag Giant John Deere Awaits Its First Software Vulnerability |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulfroberts/2021/04/14/184-years-in-ag-giant-john-deere-awaits-its-first-software-vulnerability/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723050713/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulfroberts/2021/04/14/184-years-in-ag-giant-john-deere-awaits-its-first-software-vulnerability/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025 |publisher=Forbes |format=article}}</ref>

===Failure to uphold signed right-to-repair agreement (''2021 - Present'')===
{{Main|John Deere fails to uphold right to repair agreement}}
In 2018, John Deere entered a voluntary agreement to provide manuals, training, and diagnostic software for tractors available to purchase by January 1, 2021. However, the company does not appear to have fulfilled this commitment, nor does it seem to have plans to do so in the near future.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Joel Hruska |date=23 Feb 2021 |title=John Deere Fails to Uphold Right to Repair Agreement Signed in 2018 |url=https://www.extremetech.com/electronics/320183-john-deere-fails-to-uphold-right-to-repair-agreement-signed-in-2018 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250930030704/https://www.extremetech.com/electronics/320183-john-deere-fails-to-uphold-right-to-repair-agreement-signed-in-2018 |archive-date=30 Sep 2025 |publisher=Extreme Tech |language=en |format=article}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=25 Feb 2021 |title=John Deere screws over farmers by weaseling out of agreement |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHfE_k1a0xQ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=ZHfE_k1a0xQ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |publisher=YouTube |language=en |format=video |ref=Rossmann-video-1}}</ref>

===Lobbying against right to repair (''2020 - Present'')===
{{Main|John Deere dealerships lobby against right to repair}}
John Deere dealerships lobbied against a right to repair bill that was discussed in Maine, stating a number of reasons. They question the definition of a motor vehicle, and regarding the legislation if it should apply to motor vehicles due to what they call safety concerns. One dealer argues that right to repair is a touchy subject, as "a lot of us dealers sit back, and say we really almost don't want in essence people possibly working on our equipment."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |author=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=27 Jan 2020 |title=John Deere dealerships are lobbying against right to repair. Farmers, please help me out here. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38O1zEuLOMM |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=38O1zEuLOMM |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |publisher=YouTube |language=en |format=video}}</ref>

== See also ==

* [[Monsanto]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:John Deere]]

Monsanto

2026-04-01T12:57:54Z

Reform: NPOV, and formatting fix according to wiki style guide

{{StubNotice}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1901
|Industry=Agriculture, Biotechnology, Chemicals
|Logo=Image 2026-02-06 173246414.png
|ParentCompany=Bayer
|Type=Subsidiary
|Description=An agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology company known for Roundup.
|Website=https://www.monsanto.com/, https://www.bayer.com/
}}
Monsanto is an agricultural chemical and biotechnology corporation founded in 1901 that was acquired by Bayer AG in June 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Jun 2018 |title=Bayer closes Monsanto acquisition |url=https://www.bayer.com/media/en-us/bayer-closes-monsanto-acquisition/ |website=Bayer Global |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251124194422/https://www.bayer.com/media/en-us/bayer-closes-monsanto-acquisition/ |archive-date=24 Nov 2025}}</ref>

==Consumer-impact summary==
Monsanto is has been reported to have aggressive legal maneuvering, poor treatment of farmers, sketchy business practices, and inaction regarding the carcinogenicity of their herbicide Roundup.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gillam |first=Carey |date=20 Apr 2020 |title=EPA faces court over backing of Monsanto's controversial crop system |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/20/epa-faces-court-over-backing-of-monsantos-controversial-crop-system |website=The Guardian}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Glenna |first=Leland |last2=Bruce |first2=Analena |date=Sep 2021 |title=Suborning science for profit: Monsanto, glyphosate, and private science research misconduct |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048733321000925 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240713132204/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048733321000925 |archive-date=13 Jul 2024 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref>

=== Carcinogenic herbicides concerns ===
There have been many accusations of clients developing [[wikipedia:Non-Hodgkin_lymphoma|non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)]] from Monsanto products, most commonly with their premier herbicide "Roundup" which contains the active ingredient glyphosate.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yan |first=Holly |date=2018-08-11 |title=Jurors give $289 million to a man they say got cancer from Monsanto’s Roundup weedkiller |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2018/08/10/health/monsanto-johnson-trial-verdict/index.html |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=CNN Health |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250810174800/https://edition.cnn.com/2018/08/10/health/monsanto-johnson-trial-verdict/index.html |archive-date=10 Aug 2025}}</ref> Despite the many lawsuits faced by Monsanto regarding cancer diagnosis, it still remains a debated topic, with the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring Roundup as probably carcinogenic in 2015, while following studies told otherwise.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dixon |first=Emily |date=15 Feb 2019 |title=Common weed killer glyphosate increases cancer risk by 41%, study says |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/14/health/us-glyphosate-cancer-study-scli-intl/index.html |website=CNN Health |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260213213745/https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/14/health/us-glyphosate-cancer-study-scli-intl/index.html |archive-date=13 Feb 2026}}</ref>

=== Vietnam war involvement with "Agent Orange" ===
During the Vietnam War, Monsanto developed and produced large quantities of "Agent Orange", a powerful herbicide that the American military used to kill off thousands of acres of jungle and farmland in Vietnam. This chemical attack lead to increased cases of birth defects, diabetes and cancer among the native population even years after the war ended.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ghosal |first=Aniruddha |last2=Dinh |first2=Hau |date=2025-04-30 |title=The Vietnam War ended 50 years ago, but the battle with Agent Orange continues |url=https://apnews.com/article/vietnam-war-anniversary-agent-orange-0829caefe48cc11fb88ab27982da922b |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=AP News |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251102132152/https://apnews.com/article/vietnam-war-anniversary-agent-orange-0829caefe48cc11fb88ab27982da922b |archive-date=2 Nov 2025}}</ref> Furthermore, the ecological impact of these attacks have often been considered ecocide, with over 7,000,000 acres of rainforest being poisoned. This lead to a stark drop in bio-diversity in affected areas.{{Citation needed}}
==Incidents==
===Kemner v. Monsanto===
The longest civil jury trial in American history.It ran from 1984 to 1987 with Monsanto as the defendant. The plaintiffs claimed that they had been poisoned by the chemical dioxin.{{Citation needed}}

===Alachlor lawsuits===
Alachlor is a type of herbicide that has now been widely banned outside of the US. Sold by Monsanto under the name Lasso, poisoned a man in France.{{Citation needed}}

=== Aggressive legal action against farmers ===
Since 2004, over 90 lawsuits have occurred with farmers as the accused and Monsanto as the plaintiff. Most of these lawsuits have occurred around issues with seed patents.{{Citation needed}}
==See also==

* [[John Deere]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Valve

2026-04-01T12:55:04Z

Reform: Removed a wikipedia citation and unnecessary preamble

{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American video game company known for distribution platform Steam and game series like Half Life, Portal, Team Fortress, and Counter Strike.
|Founded=1996
|Industry=Video game retail, Video game development, Video game hardware
|Logo=Valve_Corporation_Logo.svg
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://valvesoftware.com/
}}[[wikipedia:Valve_Corporation|'''Valve Corporation''']] (also known as Valve Software) is a software distribution company, most known for being the owner of the distribution service [[Steam]]. Valve additionally develops tools frequently used by various professional and amateur creators, such as Source Filmmaker and the Source Engines, as well as manufacturing hardware items such as the [[wikipedia:Steam_Deck|Steam Deck]]. It was founded in 1996 by [[wikipedia:Gabe_Newell|Gabe Newell]] and Mike Harrington.

==Consumer-impact summary==
{{Placeholder box|Overview of concerns that arise from the company's conduct regarding (if applicable):
* User freedom
* User privacy
* Business model
* Market control}}

====Business model====
Valve's primary source of revenue is the sale of both its own and third party games on the Steam platform.
Valve also manufactures and sells gaming hardware systems. These products include: the Steam Deck, Steam Machine and Steam Frame which all run [[SteamOS]], Valve's Linux-based operating system, out of the box.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Valve hardware|url=https://store.steampowered.com/sale/hardware}}</ref>

==Positives==

===Contributions to open-source (''2018 - Present'')===
Valve has made several noteworthy open-source contributions to advance software [[interoperability]], which improved gaming on Linux an macOS, and running {{Wplink|x86}} software on {{Wplink|ARM}} processors.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

====Wine compatibility layer====
On 21 August 2018, Valve released the first version of the {{Wplink|Proton (software)|Proton}} compatibility layer,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2018-08-21 |title=Valve officially confirm a new version of 'Steam Play' which includes a modified version of Wine |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2018/08/valve-officially-confirm-a-new-version-of-steam-play-which-includes-a-modified-version-of-wine/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-27 |website=GamingOnLinux}}</ref> which was developed in partnership with {{Wplink|CodeWeavers}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schmid |first=Jana |date=2022-02-25 |title=CODEWEAVERS’ PROTON SOFTWARE SAUCE POWERS STEAM DECK |url=https://www.codeweavers.com/about/news/press/20220225 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=CodeWeavers}}</ref> Proton is the fork of the {{Wplink|Wine (software)|Wine}}<ref name=":4" /> compatibility layer that allows [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] programs to run on {{Wplink|POSIX}}-compliant {{Wplink|operating systems}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Run Windows applications on Linux, BSD, Solaris and macOS |url=https://www.winehq.org/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=WineHQ}}</ref> Proton's primary focus is to improve performance and compatibility of Windows games running on {{Wplink|Linux}} operating systems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub - ValveSoftware/Proton: Compatibility tool for Steam Play based on Wine and additional components |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Proton |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Github}}</ref> It works by translating Windows specific {{Wplink|DirectX}} API calls to {{Wplink|Vulkan}}.{{Citation needed}}

As an effect of developing Proton, Valve and CodeWeavers have upstreamed a lot of upgrades and fixes to Wine.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Larabel |first=Michael |date=2019-03-27 |title=A Lot Of Valve's Proton Work Is Landing Back In Upstream Wine |url=https://www.phoronix.com/news/Proton-Work-Back-In-Wine-4.2 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Phoronix}}</ref>

====FEX emulation layer====
On 12 November 2025, Valve announced the Steam Frame, an ARM based VR headset which will be running {{Wplink|SteamOS}}.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Burke |first=Steve |last2=Lathan |first2=Patrick |last3=Makhnovets |first3=Vitalii |last4=Phetdara |first4=Tim |last5=Thang |first5=Jimmy |date=2025-11-14 |title=Valve Steam Machine, Desktop SteamOS, Steam Frame VR, & Controller {{!}} ft. Engineering Discussion |url=https://gamersnexus.net/news-pre-built-pc/valve-steam-machine-desktop-steamos-steam-frame-vr-controller-ft-engineering |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Gamers Nexus}}</ref> In order to to be compatible with most Windows x86 games, Valve will be using the FEX-Emu emulation layer alongside Proton.<ref name=":5" /> In an anniversary blog post, the FEX lead dev stated: <blockquote>I want to thank the people from Valve for being here from the start and allowing me to kickstart this project. They trusted me with the responsibility of designing and frameworking the project in a way that it can work long-term; not only for their use cases but also keeping it an open project that anyone can adapt for their own use cases.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=Houdek |first=Ryan |date=2025-11-28 |title=FEX seven year anniversary! |url=https://fex-emu.com/FEXiversary/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref></blockquote>FEX works by emulating x86 specific instructions to ARM64.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FEX-Emu – A fast linux usermode x86 and x86-64 emulator |url=https://fex-emu.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref>

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Steam users do not own their games (2024)===
In October 2024, Valve added a note to Steam's payment checkout screen which states: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam. For full terms and conditions, please see the Steam Subscriber Agreement.</blockquote> This is attributed to a law passed in California which requires storefronts to clearly state whether a consumer is purchasing a license for digital media.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam now says the ‘game’ you’re buying is really just a license |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Verge |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214142023/https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>

The licenses are tied to the Steam account, so if the consumer loses access to the account they will lose all the licenses with it.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam's new disclaimer reminds everyone that you don't actually own your games, GOG moves in for the killshot: Its offline installers 'cannot be taken away from you' |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251117104943/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref> Steam forbids consumers from transferring their licenses to other accounts, even if the accounts are owned by the same person that purchased the license. Steam forbids consumers from allowing other people to use their Steam account, even if passed down via a will.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Litchfield |first=Ted |date=2024-05-26 |title=You can't take it with you, but you can't leave it for someone else either: Valve says you aren't allowed to bequeath a Steam account in a will |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114134401/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>

This is in contrast to Steam's main competitor [https://www.gog.com/en/ GOG], which states on its payment checkout screen: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product on GOG grants you its Offline Installers, which cannot be taken away from you.<ref name=":2" /></blockquote>Some games downloaded through Steam can be played without the Steam client running.<ref>{{Cite web |title=List of DRM-free games |url=https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251121055931/https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |archive-date=21 Nov 2025 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Fandom}}</ref>

===PC version of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive replaced by Counter-Strike 2 (2023)===
Counter-Strike 2, previously available as a 'Limited Test' since March 22nd 2023<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Ali |date=2023-03-22 |title=Here's how to access the Counter-Strike 2 Limited Test {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214114651/https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>, released on September 27th 2023, replacing Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on [[Steam]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Dustin |date=2023-09-27 |title=After 11 years of CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 has officially replaced the biggest game on Steam {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223173642/https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |archive-date=23 Dec 2025}}</ref>. This removed access to Global Offensive for those who had purchased it, every mainline PC Counter-Strike game before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251230014611/https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |archive-date=30 Dec 2025}}</ref>, Counter-Strike: Condition Zero<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Condition Zero on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251228102653/https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |archive-date=28 Dec 2025}}</ref> and Counter-Strike: Source<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Source on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251217184118/https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |archive-date=17 Dec 2025}}</ref>) can still be purchased and played on [[Steam]] through a separate library entry so this was an unprecedented move from Valve.

A legacy version of Global Offensive called 'CS:GO Legacy' was released on October 10th 2023<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-10 |title=Legacy CS:GO Version |url=https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010111016/https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |archive-date=2023-10-10}}</ref> after backlash from the Counter-Strike community towards the Counter-Strike 2 launch and Global Offensive replacement. This version can only be accessed while Counter-Strike 2 is installed<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilde |first=Tyler |date=2023-10-13 |title=How to play CS:GO now that Counter-Strike 2 is out {{!}} PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |url-status=live |website=PCGamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211035203/https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref>. Valve committed to supporting this version of the game until January 1st 2024<ref name=":0" /> but in that support window ignored bug reports from the community such as Counter-Strike 2 servers appearing in the community server browser with no way to distinguish these servers from Global Offensive servers unless the server specified what game it was targeting in it's name. CS:GO Legacy received only one update<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-13 |title=Counter-Strike 2 History · Change #20663547 · SteamDB |url=https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |url-status=live |website=SteamDB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251020235311/https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |archive-date=20 Oct 2025}}</ref> during its support window and this update didn't contain any public update notes so it is unclear what this may have fixed.

After the support window for CS:GO Legacy ended, numerous problems started occurring with the game. Global Offensive servers stopped appearing in the CS:GO Legacy community server browser<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-08 |title=CS:GO Legacy servers being rejected from Steam / CS:GO Legacy server browser listings · Issue #4047 · ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |url-status=live |website=GitHub |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250514162130/https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |archive-date=14 May 2025}}</ref> which meant that only external third party server browsers could be used to find Global Offensive servers and these servers have to be added manually unlike [[Steam]]'s server browser which finds and queries new servers automatically. As a point of comparison, the mainline PC Counter-Strike games released before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike, Condition Zero and Source) still have a functional server browser without needing third party intervention.

It also became impossible to use multiple weapons (M4A1-S, USP-S, CZ75-Auto, MP5-SD, R8 Revolver) in regular gameplay on vanilla servers without plugins as the loadout system used to switch between weapons and equip weapon skins was discontinued on CS:GO Legacy.<ref>[[File:CS-GO Legacy Inventory Message.jpg|thumb|Pop-up message after attempting to open the Inventory on the main menu of CS:GO Legacy, screenshot taken 23rd October 2025.]]
</ref> There was an unofficial method of re-enabling the loadout system so these weapons could be equipped and used in game but this method was patched in the May 8th 2025 Counter-Strike 2 update.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Csgo_Legacy_2023 – BaseQ WiQi |url=https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |url-status=live |access-date=2025-10-24 |website=BaseQ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105023533/https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref> Although patched for its intended purpose, some CS:GO Legacy community servers still require this method for players to join their servers.<ref name=":3" />
==Lawsuits==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Dispute Title
!Year started and ended
(if concluded)
!Background Information
!Aftermath
!Related Articles
|-
|''ACCC v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 Mar 2016 |title=Federal Court finds Valve made misleading representations about consumer guarantees |url=https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=ACCC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251013070949/https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|2014–2016
|During this lawsuit, Valve was found by the Australian Federal Court to have refused to offer refunds for faulty or broken products.
|Users now have the ability to easily refund games they purchased, so long as they follow the refund policy.
|
|-
|''UFC Que Choisir v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Dec 2024 |title=Tough Times Ahead for Digital Video Game Resellers: French Supreme Court Ruling in UFC Que Choisir v. Valve |url=https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=Fox Mandal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204122942/https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |archive-date=4 Dec 2024}}</ref>
|2015–2019
(still disputed)
|UFC Que Choisir sued Valve on the grounds that users deserved to resell their digital licenses.
|Users in France had the right to resell their digital Steam library, overturned in October 2024.
|
|-
|''McLeod v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-10-04 |title=McLeod v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250126102613/https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |archive-date=2025-01-26 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2016
|MacLeod started the first antitrust case against Valve Corp. over the sale of their games.
|Absorbed into another legal dispute; continues to be dismissed within Seattle courts.
|
|-
|''Wolfire Games v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-06 |title=Wolfire Games LLC v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202174447/https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |archive-date=2025-02-02 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2021–2022
|The first notable antitrust case against Valve's unfair market manipulation of their games.
|Absorbed into another dispute/now a [[class action lawsuit]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=28 Nov 2024 |title=The antitrust lawsuit against Steam is now a class action, and that could have big repercussions for Valve |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118020850/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|
|-
|''Sean Colvin'' (and various others) ''v. Valve Corporation, CD Projekt S.A., CD Projekt, Inc., Ubisoft Entertainment S.A., Ubisoft, Inc., Ubisoft L.A., Inc., kChamp Games, Inc., Rust, LLC, and Devolver Digital, Inc.''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gardner |first=Eriq |date=28 Jan 2021 |title=Popular Gaming Platform Accused of Abusing Market Power Through Contracts |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114174554/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|2021 - Unfinised
|Five individuals in California sued Valve (among various other publishers) over participating in anti-competitive behavior with the Steam platform, most notably over the sale of games for lesser prices on other platforms.
|Not concluded because of indefinite postponement by Valve.
|
|-
|''Bucher Law PLCC v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bucher Law Steam Lawsuit |url=https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174529/https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025 |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=LawGud}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-23 |title=Valve antitrust litigation |url=https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174522/https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Bucher Law Firm}}</ref>
|C.A. 2021 - Unfinished
|A companion to previous lawsuits against Valve over their anti-competitive monopoly, this time covering consumers over their purchase of games on Steam.
|Not concluded, slowly being arbitrated.
|
|}

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Valve Corporation]]

Valve

2026-04-01T12:50:05Z

Reform: /* Contributions to open-source (2018 - Present) */

{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American video game company known for distribution platform Steam and game series like Half Life, Portal, Team Fortress, and Counter Strike.
|Founded=1996
|Industry=Video game retail, Video game development, Video game hardware
|Logo=Valve_Corporation_Logo.svg
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://valvesoftware.com/
}}[[wikipedia:Valve_Corporation|'''Valve Corporation''']] (also known as Valve Software) is a software distribution company, most known for being the owner of the distribution service [[Steam]]. Valve additionally develops tools frequently used by various professional and amateur creators, such as Source Filmmaker and the Source Engines, as well as manufacturing hardware items such as the [[wikipedia:Steam_Deck|Steam Deck]]. It was founded in 1996 by [[wikipedia:Gabe_Newell|Gabe Newell]] and Mike Harrington.

==Consumer-impact summary==
{{Placeholder box|Overview of concerns that arise from the company's conduct regarding (if applicable):
* User freedom
* User privacy
* Business model
* Market control}}

====Business model====
Valve's primary source of revenue is the sale of both its own and third party games on the Steam platform.
Valve also manufactures and sells gaming hardware systems. These products include: the Steam Deck, Steam Machine and Steam Frame which all run [[SteamOS]], Valve's Linux-based operating system, out of the box.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Valve hardware|url=https://store.steampowered.com/sale/hardware}}</ref>

==Positives==

===Contributions to open-source (''2018 - Present'')===
Valve has made several noteworthy open-source contributions to advance software [[interoperability]], which improved gaming on Linux an macOS, and running {{Wplink|x86}} software on {{Wplink|ARM}} processors.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

====Wine compatibility layer====
On 21 August 2018, Valve released the first version of the {{Wplink|Proton (software)|Proton}} compatibility layer,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2018-08-21 |title=Valve officially confirm a new version of 'Steam Play' which includes a modified version of Wine |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2018/08/valve-officially-confirm-a-new-version-of-steam-play-which-includes-a-modified-version-of-wine/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-27 |website=GamingOnLinux}}</ref> which was developed in partnership with {{Wplink|CodeWeavers}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schmid |first=Jana |date=2022-02-25 |title=CODEWEAVERS’ PROTON SOFTWARE SAUCE POWERS STEAM DECK |url=https://www.codeweavers.com/about/news/press/20220225 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=CodeWeavers}}</ref> Proton is the fork of the {{Wplink|Wine (software)|Wine}}<ref name=":4" /> compatibility layer that allows [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] programs to run on {{Wplink|POSIX}}-compliant {{Wplink|operating systems}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Run Windows applications on Linux, BSD, Solaris and macOS |url=https://www.winehq.org/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=WineHQ}}</ref> Proton's primary focus is to improve performance and compatibility of Windows games running on {{Wplink|Linux}} operating systems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub - ValveSoftware/Proton: Compatibility tool for Steam Play based on Wine and additional components |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Proton |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Github}}</ref> It works by translating Windows specific {{Wplink|DirectX}} API calls to {{Wplink|Vulkan}}.{{Citation needed}}

As an effect of developing Proton, Valve and CodeWeavers have upstreamed a lot of upgrades and fixes to Wine.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Larabel |first=Michael |date=2019-03-27 |title=A Lot Of Valve's Proton Work Is Landing Back In Upstream Wine |url=https://www.phoronix.com/news/Proton-Work-Back-In-Wine-4.2 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Phoronix}}</ref>

====FEX emulation layer====
On 12 November 2025, Valve announced the Steam Frame, an ARM based VR headset which will be running {{Wplink|SteamOS}}.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Burke |first=Steve |last2=Lathan |first2=Patrick |last3=Makhnovets |first3=Vitalii |last4=Phetdara |first4=Tim |last5=Thang |first5=Jimmy |date=2025-11-14 |title=Valve Steam Machine, Desktop SteamOS, Steam Frame VR, & Controller {{!}} ft. Engineering Discussion |url=https://gamersnexus.net/news-pre-built-pc/valve-steam-machine-desktop-steamos-steam-frame-vr-controller-ft-engineering |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Gamers Nexus}}</ref> In order to to be compatible with most Windows x86 games, Valve will be using the FEX-Emu emulation layer alongside Proton.<ref name=":5" /> In an anniversary blog post, the FEX lead dev stated: <blockquote>I want to thank the people from Valve for being here from the start and allowing me to kickstart this project. They trusted me with the responsibility of designing and frameworking the project in a way that it can work long-term; not only for their use cases but also keeping it an open project that anyone can adapt for their own use cases.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=Houdek |first=Ryan |date=2025-11-28 |title=FEX seven year anniversary! |url=https://fex-emu.com/FEXiversary/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref></blockquote>FEX works by emulating x86 specific instructions to ARM64.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FEX-Emu – A fast linux usermode x86 and x86-64 emulator |url=https://fex-emu.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref>

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Steam users do not own their games (2024)===
In October 2024, Valve added a note to Steam's payment checkout screen which states: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam. For full terms and conditions, please see the Steam Subscriber Agreement.</blockquote> This is attributed to a law passed in California which requires storefronts to clearly state whether a consumer is purchasing a license for digital media.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam now says the ‘game’ you’re buying is really just a license |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Verge |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214142023/https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>

The licenses are tied to the Steam account, so if the consumer loses access to the account they will lose all the licenses with it.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam's new disclaimer reminds everyone that you don't actually own your games, GOG moves in for the killshot: Its offline installers 'cannot be taken away from you' |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251117104943/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref> Steam forbids consumers from transferring their licenses to other accounts, even if the accounts are owned by the same person that purchased the license. Steam forbids consumers from allowing other people to use their Steam account, even if passed down via a will.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Litchfield |first=Ted |date=2024-05-26 |title=You can't take it with you, but you can't leave it for someone else either: Valve says you aren't allowed to bequeath a Steam account in a will |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114134401/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>

This is in contrast to Steam's main competitor [https://www.gog.com/en/ GOG], which states on its payment checkout screen: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product on GOG grants you its Offline Installers, which cannot be taken away from you.<ref name=":2" /></blockquote>Some games downloaded through Steam can be played without the Steam client running.<ref>{{Cite web |title=List of DRM-free games |url=https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251121055931/https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |archive-date=21 Nov 2025 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Fandom}}</ref>

===PC version of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive replaced by Counter-Strike 2 (2023)===
Counter-Strike 2, previously available as a 'Limited Test' since March 22nd 2023<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Ali |date=2023-03-22 |title=Here's how to access the Counter-Strike 2 Limited Test {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214114651/https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>, released on September 27th 2023, replacing Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on [[Steam]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Dustin |date=2023-09-27 |title=After 11 years of CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 has officially replaced the biggest game on Steam {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223173642/https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |archive-date=23 Dec 2025}}</ref>. This removed access to Global Offensive for those who had purchased it, every mainline PC Counter-Strike game before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251230014611/https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |archive-date=30 Dec 2025}}</ref>, Counter-Strike: Condition Zero<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Condition Zero on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251228102653/https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |archive-date=28 Dec 2025}}</ref> and Counter-Strike: Source<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Source on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251217184118/https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |archive-date=17 Dec 2025}}</ref>) can still be purchased and played on [[Steam]] through a separate library entry so this was an unprecedented move from Valve.

A legacy version of Global Offensive called 'CS:GO Legacy' was released on October 10th 2023<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-10 |title=Legacy CS:GO Version |url=https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010111016/https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |archive-date=2023-10-10}}</ref> after backlash from the Counter-Strike community towards the Counter-Strike 2 launch and Global Offensive replacement. This version can only be accessed while Counter-Strike 2 is installed<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilde |first=Tyler |date=2023-10-13 |title=How to play CS:GO now that Counter-Strike 2 is out {{!}} PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |url-status=live |website=PCGamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211035203/https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref>. Valve committed to supporting this version of the game until January 1st 2024<ref name=":0" /> but in that support window ignored bug reports from the community such as Counter-Strike 2 servers appearing in the community server browser with no way to distinguish these servers from Global Offensive servers unless the server specified what game it was targeting in it's name. CS:GO Legacy received only one update<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-13 |title=Counter-Strike 2 History · Change #20663547 · SteamDB |url=https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |url-status=live |website=SteamDB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251020235311/https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |archive-date=20 Oct 2025}}</ref> during its support window and this update didn't contain any public update notes so it is unclear what this may have fixed.

After the support window for CS:GO Legacy ended, numerous problems started occurring with the game. Global Offensive servers stopped appearing in the CS:GO Legacy community server browser<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-08 |title=CS:GO Legacy servers being rejected from Steam / CS:GO Legacy server browser listings · Issue #4047 · ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |url-status=live |website=GitHub |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250514162130/https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |archive-date=14 May 2025}}</ref> which meant that only external third party server browsers could be used to find Global Offensive servers and these servers have to be added manually unlike [[Steam]]'s server browser which finds and queries new servers automatically. As a point of comparison, the mainline PC Counter-Strike games released before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike, Condition Zero and Source) still have a functional server browser without needing third party intervention.

It also became impossible to use multiple weapons (M4A1-S, USP-S, CZ75-Auto, MP5-SD, R8 Revolver) in regular gameplay on vanilla servers without plugins as the loadout system used to switch between weapons and equip weapon skins was discontinued on CS:GO Legacy.<ref>[[File:CS-GO Legacy Inventory Message.jpg|thumb|Pop-up message after attempting to open the Inventory on the main menu of CS:GO Legacy, screenshot taken 23rd October 2025.]]
</ref> There was an unofficial method of re-enabling the loadout system so these weapons could be equipped and used in game but this method was patched in the May 8th 2025 Counter-Strike 2 update.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Csgo_Legacy_2023 – BaseQ WiQi |url=https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |url-status=live |access-date=2025-10-24 |website=BaseQ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105023533/https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref> Although patched for its intended purpose, some CS:GO Legacy community servers still require this method for players to join their servers.<ref name=":3" />
==Legal disputes==
Steam's predominance has led to Valve becoming involved in various legal cases.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Steam (service) |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_(service)#Legal_disputes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251228142840/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_(service)#Legal_disputes |archive-date=28 Dec 2025 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Wikipedia}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Dispute Title
!Year started and ended
(if concluded)
!Background Information
!Aftermath
!Related Articles
|-
|''ACCC v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 Mar 2016 |title=Federal Court finds Valve made misleading representations about consumer guarantees |url=https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=ACCC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251013070949/https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|2014–2016
|During this lawsuit, Valve was found by the Australian Federal Court to have refused to offer refunds for faulty or broken products.
|Users now have the ability to easily refund games they purchased, so long as they follow the refund policy.
|
|-
|''UFC Que Choisir v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Dec 2024 |title=Tough Times Ahead for Digital Video Game Resellers: French Supreme Court Ruling in UFC Que Choisir v. Valve |url=https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=Fox Mandal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204122942/https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |archive-date=4 Dec 2024}}</ref>
|2015–2019
(still disputed)
|UFC Que Choisir sued Valve on the grounds that users deserved to resell their digital licenses.
|Users in France had the right to resell their digital Steam library, overturned in October 2024.
|
|-
|''McLeod v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-10-04 |title=McLeod v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250126102613/https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |archive-date=2025-01-26 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2016
|MacLeod started the first antitrust case against Valve Corp. over the sale of their games.
|Absorbed into another legal dispute; continues to be dismissed within Seattle courts.
|
|-
|''Wolfire Games v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-06 |title=Wolfire Games LLC v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202174447/https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |archive-date=2025-02-02 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2021–2022
|The first notable antitrust case against Valve's unfair market manipulation of their games.
|Absorbed into another dispute/now a [[class action lawsuit]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=28 Nov 2024 |title=The antitrust lawsuit against Steam is now a class action, and that could have big repercussions for Valve |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118020850/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|
|-
|''Sean Colvin'' (and various others) ''v. Valve Corporation, CD Projekt S.A., CD Projekt, Inc., Ubisoft Entertainment S.A., Ubisoft, Inc., Ubisoft L.A., Inc., kChamp Games, Inc., Rust, LLC, and Devolver Digital, Inc.''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gardner |first=Eriq |date=28 Jan 2021 |title=Popular Gaming Platform Accused of Abusing Market Power Through Contracts |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114174554/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|2021 - Unfinised
|Five individuals in California sued Valve (among various other publishers) over participating in anti-competitive behavior with the Steam platform, most notably over the sale of games for lesser prices on other platforms.
|Not concluded because of indefinite postponement by Valve.
|
|-
|''Bucher Law PLCC v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bucher Law Steam Lawsuit |url=https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174529/https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025 |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=LawGud}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-23 |title=Valve antitrust litigation |url=https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174522/https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Bucher Law Firm}}</ref>
|C.A. 2021 - Unfinished
|A companion to previous lawsuits against Valve over their anti-competitive monopoly, this time covering consumers over their purchase of games on Steam.
|Not concluded, slowly being arbitrated.
|
|}

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Valve Corporation]]

Valve

2026-04-01T12:48:59Z

Reform: /* Positives */

{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American video game company known for distribution platform Steam and game series like Half Life, Portal, Team Fortress, and Counter Strike.
|Founded=1996
|Industry=Video game retail, Video game development, Video game hardware
|Logo=Valve_Corporation_Logo.svg
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://valvesoftware.com/
}}[[wikipedia:Valve_Corporation|'''Valve Corporation''']] (also known as Valve Software) is a software distribution company, most known for being the owner of the distribution service [[Steam]]. Valve additionally develops tools frequently used by various professional and amateur creators, such as Source Filmmaker and the Source Engines, as well as manufacturing hardware items such as the [[wikipedia:Steam_Deck|Steam Deck]]. It was founded in 1996 by [[wikipedia:Gabe_Newell|Gabe Newell]] and Mike Harrington.

==Consumer-impact summary==
{{Placeholder box|Overview of concerns that arise from the company's conduct regarding (if applicable):
* User freedom
* User privacy
* Business model
* Market control}}

====Business model====
Valve's primary source of revenue is the sale of both its own and third party games on the Steam platform.
Valve also manufactures and sells gaming hardware systems. These products include: the Steam Deck, Steam Machine and Steam Frame which all run [[SteamOS]], Valve's Linux-based operating system, out of the box.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Valve hardware|url=https://store.steampowered.com/sale/hardware}}</ref>

==Positives==

===Contributions to open-source (''2018 - Present'')===
Valve has made several noteworthy open-source contributions advance software [[interoperability]], which improved gaming on Linux an macOS, and running {{Wplink|x86}} software on {{Wplink|ARM}} processors.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

==== Wine compatibility layer ====
On 21 August 2018, Valve released the first version of the {{Wplink|Proton (software)|Proton}} compatibility layer,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2018-08-21 |title=Valve officially confirm a new version of 'Steam Play' which includes a modified version of Wine |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2018/08/valve-officially-confirm-a-new-version-of-steam-play-which-includes-a-modified-version-of-wine/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-27 |website=GamingOnLinux}}</ref> which was developed in partnership with {{Wplink|CodeWeavers}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schmid |first=Jana |date=2022-02-25 |title=CODEWEAVERS’ PROTON SOFTWARE SAUCE POWERS STEAM DECK |url=https://www.codeweavers.com/about/news/press/20220225 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=CodeWeavers}}</ref> Proton is the fork of the {{Wplink|Wine (software)|Wine}}<ref name=":4" /> compatibility layer that allows [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] programs to run on {{Wplink|POSIX}}-compliant {{Wplink|operating systems}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Run Windows applications on Linux, BSD, Solaris and macOS |url=https://www.winehq.org/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=WineHQ}}</ref> Proton's primary focus is to improve performance and compatibility of Windows games running on {{Wplink|Linux}} operating systems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub - ValveSoftware/Proton: Compatibility tool for Steam Play based on Wine and additional components |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Proton |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Github}}</ref> It works by translating Windows specific {{Wplink|DirectX}} API calls to {{Wplink|Vulkan}}.{{Citation needed}}

As an effect of developing Proton, Valve and CodeWeavers have upstreamed a lot of upgrades and fixes to Wine.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Larabel |first=Michael |date=2019-03-27 |title=A Lot Of Valve's Proton Work Is Landing Back In Upstream Wine |url=https://www.phoronix.com/news/Proton-Work-Back-In-Wine-4.2 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Phoronix}}</ref>

==== FEX emulation layer ====
On 12 November 2025, Valve announced the Steam Frame, an ARM based VR headset which will be running {{Wplink|SteamOS}}.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Burke |first=Steve |last2=Lathan |first2=Patrick |last3=Makhnovets |first3=Vitalii |last4=Phetdara |first4=Tim |last5=Thang |first5=Jimmy |date=2025-11-14 |title=Valve Steam Machine, Desktop SteamOS, Steam Frame VR, & Controller {{!}} ft. Engineering Discussion |url=https://gamersnexus.net/news-pre-built-pc/valve-steam-machine-desktop-steamos-steam-frame-vr-controller-ft-engineering |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=Gamers Nexus}}</ref> In order to to be compatible with most Windows x86 games, Valve will be using the FEX-Emu emulation layer alongside Proton.<ref name=":5" /> In an anniversary blog post, the FEX lead dev stated: <blockquote>I want to thank the people from Valve for being here from the start and allowing me to kickstart this project. They trusted me with the responsibility of designing and frameworking the project in a way that it can work long-term; not only for their use cases but also keeping it an open project that anyone can adapt for their own use cases.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=Houdek |first=Ryan |date=2025-11-28 |title=FEX seven year anniversary! |url=https://fex-emu.com/FEXiversary/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref></blockquote>FEX works by emulating x86 specific instructions to ARM64.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FEX-Emu – A fast linux usermode x86 and x86-64 emulator |url=https://fex-emu.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=FEX-Emu}}</ref>

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Steam users do not own their games (2024)===
In October 2024, Valve added a note to Steam's payment checkout screen which states: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam. For full terms and conditions, please see the Steam Subscriber Agreement.</blockquote> This is attributed to a law passed in California which requires storefronts to clearly state whether a consumer is purchasing a license for digital media.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam now says the ‘game’ you’re buying is really just a license |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Verge |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214142023/https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/11/24267864/steam-buy-purchase-license-digital-storefront |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>

The licenses are tied to the Steam account, so if the consumer loses access to the account they will lose all the licenses with it.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=11 Oct 2024 |title=Steam's new disclaimer reminds everyone that you don't actually own your games, GOG moves in for the killshot: Its offline installers 'cannot be taken away from you' |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251117104943/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/steams-new-disclaimer-reminds-everyone-that-you-dont-actually-own-your-games-gog-moves-in-for-the-killshot-its-offline-installers-cannot-be-taken-away-from-you/ |archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref> Steam forbids consumers from transferring their licenses to other accounts, even if the accounts are owned by the same person that purchased the license. Steam forbids consumers from allowing other people to use their Steam account, even if passed down via a will.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Litchfield |first=Ted |date=2024-05-26 |title=You can't take it with you, but you can't leave it for someone else either: Valve says you aren't allowed to bequeath a Steam account in a will |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114134401/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/you-cant-take-it-with-you-but-you-cant-leave-it-behind-either-valve-says-you-arent-allowed-to-bequeath-a-steam-account-in-a-will/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>

This is in contrast to Steam's main competitor [https://www.gog.com/en/ GOG], which states on its payment checkout screen: <blockquote>A purchase of a digital product on GOG grants you its Offline Installers, which cannot be taken away from you.<ref name=":2" /></blockquote>Some games downloaded through Steam can be played without the Steam client running.<ref>{{Cite web |title=List of DRM-free games |url=https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251121055931/https://steam.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_DRM-free_games |archive-date=21 Nov 2025 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Fandom}}</ref>

===PC version of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive replaced by Counter-Strike 2 (2023)===
Counter-Strike 2, previously available as a 'Limited Test' since March 22nd 2023<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Ali |date=2023-03-22 |title=Here's how to access the Counter-Strike 2 Limited Test {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251214114651/https://www.gamesradar.com/counter-strike-2-limited-test/ |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}}</ref>, released on September 27th 2023, replacing Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on [[Steam]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Dustin |date=2023-09-27 |title=After 11 years of CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 has officially replaced the biggest game on Steam {{!}} GamesRadar+ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |url-status=live |website=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223173642/https://www.gamesradar.com/after-11-years-of-csgo-counter-strike-2-has-officially-replaced-the-biggest-game-on-steam/ |archive-date=23 Dec 2025}}</ref>. This removed access to Global Offensive for those who had purchased it, every mainline PC Counter-Strike game before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251230014611/https://store.steampowered.com/app/10/CounterStrike/ |archive-date=30 Dec 2025}}</ref>, Counter-Strike: Condition Zero<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Condition Zero on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251228102653/https://store.steampowered.com/app/80/CounterStrike_Condition_Zero/ |archive-date=28 Dec 2025}}</ref> and Counter-Strike: Source<ref>{{Cite web |title=Counter-Strike: Source on Steam |url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |url-status=live |website=Steam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251217184118/https://store.steampowered.com/app/240/CounterStrike_Source/ |archive-date=17 Dec 2025}}</ref>) can still be purchased and played on [[Steam]] through a separate library entry so this was an unprecedented move from Valve.

A legacy version of Global Offensive called 'CS:GO Legacy' was released on October 10th 2023<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-10 |title=Legacy CS:GO Version |url=https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010111016/https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/73EF-08A3-0935-6369 |archive-date=2023-10-10}}</ref> after backlash from the Counter-Strike community towards the Counter-Strike 2 launch and Global Offensive replacement. This version can only be accessed while Counter-Strike 2 is installed<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilde |first=Tyler |date=2023-10-13 |title=How to play CS:GO now that Counter-Strike 2 is out {{!}} PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |url-status=live |website=PCGamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211035203/https://www.pcgamer.com/you-can-still-play-csgo-at-least-if-you-consider-custom-servers-where-you-fight-final-fantasy-summons-playing-csgo/ |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref>. Valve committed to supporting this version of the game until January 1st 2024<ref name=":0" /> but in that support window ignored bug reports from the community such as Counter-Strike 2 servers appearing in the community server browser with no way to distinguish these servers from Global Offensive servers unless the server specified what game it was targeting in it's name. CS:GO Legacy received only one update<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-13 |title=Counter-Strike 2 History · Change #20663547 · SteamDB |url=https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |url-status=live |website=SteamDB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251020235311/https://steamdb.info/app/730/history/?changeid=20663547 |archive-date=20 Oct 2025}}</ref> during its support window and this update didn't contain any public update notes so it is unclear what this may have fixed.

After the support window for CS:GO Legacy ended, numerous problems started occurring with the game. Global Offensive servers stopped appearing in the CS:GO Legacy community server browser<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-08 |title=CS:GO Legacy servers being rejected from Steam / CS:GO Legacy server browser listings · Issue #4047 · ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux |url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |url-status=live |website=GitHub |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250514162130/https://github.com/ValveSoftware/csgo-osx-linux/issues/4047 |archive-date=14 May 2025}}</ref> which meant that only external third party server browsers could be used to find Global Offensive servers and these servers have to be added manually unlike [[Steam]]'s server browser which finds and queries new servers automatically. As a point of comparison, the mainline PC Counter-Strike games released before Global Offensive (Counter-Strike, Condition Zero and Source) still have a functional server browser without needing third party intervention.

It also became impossible to use multiple weapons (M4A1-S, USP-S, CZ75-Auto, MP5-SD, R8 Revolver) in regular gameplay on vanilla servers without plugins as the loadout system used to switch between weapons and equip weapon skins was discontinued on CS:GO Legacy.<ref>[[File:CS-GO Legacy Inventory Message.jpg|thumb|Pop-up message after attempting to open the Inventory on the main menu of CS:GO Legacy, screenshot taken 23rd October 2025.]]
</ref> There was an unofficial method of re-enabling the loadout system so these weapons could be equipped and used in game but this method was patched in the May 8th 2025 Counter-Strike 2 update.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Csgo_Legacy_2023 – BaseQ WiQi |url=https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |url-status=live |access-date=2025-10-24 |website=BaseQ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105023533/https://wiki.baseq.fr/Installation-Guides/Source/Csgo_Legacy_2023?revision=7fa46e#enabling-back-your-inventory |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref> Although patched for its intended purpose, some CS:GO Legacy community servers still require this method for players to join their servers.<ref name=":3" />
==Legal disputes==
Steam's predominance has led to Valve becoming involved in various legal cases.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Steam (service) |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_(service)#Legal_disputes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251228142840/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_(service)#Legal_disputes |archive-date=28 Dec 2025 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Wikipedia}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Dispute Title
!Year started and ended
(if concluded)
!Background Information
!Aftermath
!Related Articles
|-
|''ACCC v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 Mar 2016 |title=Federal Court finds Valve made misleading representations about consumer guarantees |url=https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=ACCC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251013070949/https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/federal-court-finds-valve-made-misleading-representations-about-consumer-guarantees |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|2014–2016
|During this lawsuit, Valve was found by the Australian Federal Court to have refused to offer refunds for faulty or broken products.
|Users now have the ability to easily refund games they purchased, so long as they follow the refund policy.
|
|-
|''UFC Que Choisir v. Valve Corporation''<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Dec 2024 |title=Tough Times Ahead for Digital Video Game Resellers: French Supreme Court Ruling in UFC Que Choisir v. Valve |url=https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=Fox Mandal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204122942/https://www.foxmandal.in/tough-times-ahead-for-digital-video-game-resellers-french-supreme-court-ruling-in-ufc-que-choisir-v-valve/ |archive-date=4 Dec 2024}}</ref>
|2015–2019
(still disputed)
|UFC Que Choisir sued Valve on the grounds that users deserved to resell their digital licenses.
|Users in France had the right to resell their digital Steam library, overturned in October 2024.
|
|-
|''McLeod v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-10-04 |title=McLeod v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250126102613/https://casetext.com/case/mcleod-v-valve-corp |archive-date=2025-01-26 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2016
|MacLeod started the first antitrust case against Valve Corp. over the sale of their games.
|Absorbed into another legal dispute; continues to be dismissed within Seattle courts.
|
|-
|''Wolfire Games v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-06 |title=Wolfire Games LLC v. Valve Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202174447/https://casetext.com/case/wolfire-games-llc-v-valve-corp-7 |archive-date=2025-02-02 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Casetext}}</ref>
|2021–2022
|The first notable antitrust case against Valve's unfair market manipulation of their games.
|Absorbed into another dispute/now a [[class action lawsuit]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=28 Nov 2024 |title=The antitrust lawsuit against Steam is now a class action, and that could have big repercussions for Valve |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=PC Gamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118020850/https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/the-antitrust-lawsuit-against-steam-is-now-a-class-action-and-that-could-have-big-repercussions-for-valve/ |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|
|-
|''Sean Colvin'' (and various others) ''v. Valve Corporation, CD Projekt S.A., CD Projekt, Inc., Ubisoft Entertainment S.A., Ubisoft, Inc., Ubisoft L.A., Inc., kChamp Games, Inc., Rust, LLC, and Devolver Digital, Inc.''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gardner |first=Eriq |date=28 Jan 2021 |title=Popular Gaming Platform Accused of Abusing Market Power Through Contracts |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114174554/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/popular-gaming-platform-accused-of-abusing-market-power-through-contracts-4124057/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|2021 - Unfinised
|Five individuals in California sued Valve (among various other publishers) over participating in anti-competitive behavior with the Steam platform, most notably over the sale of games for lesser prices on other platforms.
|Not concluded because of indefinite postponement by Valve.
|
|-
|''Bucher Law PLCC v. Valve Corp.''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bucher Law Steam Lawsuit |url=https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174529/https://lawgud.com/lawsuit/bucher-law-steam-lawsuit/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025 |access-date=7 Apr 2025 |website=LawGud}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-23 |title=Valve antitrust litigation |url=https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174522/https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/_files/ugd/38f6ef_69ae2fee5c5548538d526669d99be533.pdf |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2026-01-22 |website=Bucher Law Firm}}</ref>
|C.A. 2021 - Unfinished
|A companion to previous lawsuits against Valve over their anti-competitive monopoly, this time covering consumers over their purchase of games on Steam.
|Not concluded, slowly being arbitrated.
|
|}

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Valve Corporation]]

SteamOS

2026-04-01T12:35:25Z

Reform: Added relevance notice

{{Irrelevant}}{{ProductLineCargo
|ArticleType= Product
|Category= Software
|Company= Valve
|Description=
|Website=https://store.steampowered.com/steamos/|InProduction=Yes}}

SteamOS is a [[Valve]] developed operating system made specifically with gaming in mind as it comes with [[Steam]] preinstalled. It can be found on Valve's first-party hardware, which includes the Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and Steam Frame. Starting in 2025, Valve added support to include third-party devices, such as the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally. It can alternatively be installed on personal computers but comes without official support from Valve.<ref name=":0" />

It is a Linux distribution, based on [[wikipedia:Arch_Linux|Arch Linux]]. So while the Steam application is proprietary, the operating system is [[Free software movement|free and open-source]] software.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=1 Apr 2026 |title=SteamOS |url=https://store.steampowered.com/steamos/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260331014810/https://store.steampowered.com/steamos/ |archive-date=31 Mar 2026 |access-date=1 Apr 2026 |website=Steam}}</ref>

==See also==

*[[Microsoft Windows 11]]
*[[Apple macOS]]
*[[Android]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Pro-consumer_articles]]

SteamOS

2026-04-01T12:31:51Z

Reform: Removed duplicate source, added product line cargo, additional links and changed some wording for simplicity and legibility

{{ProductLineCargo
|ArticleType= Product
|Category= Software
|Company= Valve
|Description=
}}
SteamOS is a [[Valve]] developed operating system made specifically with gaming in mind as it comes with [[Steam]] preinstalled. It can be found on Valve's first-party hardware, which includes the Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and Steam Frame. Starting in 2025, Valve added support to include third-party devices, such as the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally. It can alternatively be installed on personal computers but comes without official support from Valve.<ref name=":0" />

It is a Linux distribution, based on [[wikipedia:Arch_Linux|Arch Linux]]. So while the Steam application is proprietary, the operating system is [[Free software movement|free and open-source]] software.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=1 Apr 2026 |title=SteamOS |url=https://store.steampowered.com/steamos/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260331014810/https://store.steampowered.com/steamos/ |archive-date=31 Mar 2026 |access-date=1 Apr 2026 |website=Steam}}</ref>

==See also==

*[[Microsoft Windows 11]]
*[[Apple macOS]]
*[[Android]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Pro-consumer_articles]]

Revolut

2026-04-01T12:01:46Z

Reform: Forced app download section wording update for grammar and legibility reasons

{{Incomplete}}
{{ProductCargo
|Description=Financial technology company known for its free and subscription-based digital banking services
|Type=Private
|Category=Digital Banking
|Company=Revolut Group Holdings Ltd
|Website=https://revolut.com
|Industry=Digital Banking
|Logo=Revolut logo.svg
|Founded=2015-07-00}}

'''Revolut''' is a global financial technology company headquartered in London and founded in July 2015 by Nik Storonskiy and Vlad Yatsenko. As of March 2026, Revolut has over 70 million customers and supports transfers across more than 160 countries and regions. It was valued at $75 billion in November 2025. Its services include bank accounts, debit cards, credit cards, currency exchange, stock trading, cryptocurrency exchange and peer to peer payments.

==Consumer-impact summary==

===Forced app download===
The web experience cannot be used to make purchases, but only to check account balance, limited transaction history, control cards freezing, PIN lock, and other card security settings. This effectively forces the user to make use of the mobile app.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gory |first=Colm |date=1 Dec 2020 |title=Revolut launches ‘highly requested’ web app for desktop users |url=https://www.siliconrepublic.com/business/revolut-web-app-desktop-laptop |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250211014949/https://www.siliconrepublic.com/business/revolut-web-app-desktop-laptop |archive-date=11 Feb 2025 |access-date=27 Mar 2026 |work=Silicon Republic |pages=3}}</ref>

===Freemium with personal data concerns===
Revolut earns money from subscriptions plans to access extra features. Most prominent being bigger withdrawal limits and travel insurance.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Emmanuel Chijioke |first=Peter |last2=Hipolito |first2=Mirjan |date=10 Feb 2025 |editor-last=Johnson |editor-first=BJ |title=Revolut Fees Review |url=https://tradersunion.com/brokers/digital-banks/view/revolut/fees/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250831230304/https://tradersunion.com/brokers/digital-banks/view/revolut/fees/ |archive-date=31 Aug 2025 |access-date=27 Mar 2026 |website=Traders Union}}</ref> Regardless of subscription status, Revolut optionally suggests that customers link their bank accounts to "give a complete picture of your spending and saving." While this access is read-only, it poses serious privacy concerns.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dunne |first=Eithne |date=14 Mar 2021 |title=Put overspending to bed with a bank syncing app |url=https://www.thetimes.com/business/economics/article/put-overspending-to-bed-with-a-bank-syncing-app-2r85t8kqq |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251221134625/https://www.thetimes.com/business/economics/article/put-overspending-to-bed-with-a-bank-syncing-app-2r85t8kqq |archive-date=21 Dec 2025 |access-date=27 Mar 2026 |website=The Times and The Sunday Times}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=12 Oct 2025 |title=Revolut |url=https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/reports/com.revolut.revolut/latest/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251012101646/https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/reports/com.revolut.revolut/latest/ |archive-date=12 Oct 2025 |access-date=12 Oct 2025 |website=εxodus}}</ref> Financial services are required by law to implement extensive Know Your Customer ([[wikipedia:Know_your_customer|KYC]]), but the issue of extracting ''more information than needed'' reflects a broader trend in the digital industry to lure customers into free services where sharing their personal information becomes the revenue strategy, effectively forcing unknowing customers to "pay with their data".<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Batista |first=Hugo |date=18 Apr 2020 |title=Revolut is sharing your data with Facebook. Here’s what you need to know. |url=https://medium.com/swlh/revolut-is-sharing-your-data-with-facebook-heres-what-you-need-to-know-cc511c7ab639 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260214222032/https://medium.com/swlh/revolut-is-sharing-your-data-with-facebook-heres-what-you-need-to-know-cc511c7ab639 |archive-date=14 Feb 2026 |access-date=27 Mar 2026 |website=Medium}}</ref> Data which includes:
*Phone number
*Date of birth
*Email address
*Full legal name
*Home address
*Aircode
*ID
*Microphone permissions without disclosure as to why

=====Further data Collected:=====

*"details of the device you use (for example, your phone, computer or tablet)"
*IP address
*Browser type and version
*Time zone setting
*Device language
*Operating system and platform
*Type of device used
*Whether a virtual private network (VPN) is used
*A unique device identifier
*Mobile network information
*Mobile operating system
*Type of mobile browser you use
*Links clicked on the website or Revolut app (including date and time stamp)
*Length of visits to certain pages
*Page interaction information (such as scrolling and clicks)
*Methods used to browse away from the page
*Types of apps and other metadata about the device
*Information from devices contacts list
*Behavioural biometric data
*Detailed device settings
*GPS location <ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=1 Jan 2025 |title=Revolut Privacy Policy |url=https://www.revolut.com/legal/privacy/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260220102621/https://www.revolut.com/legal/privacy/ |archive-date=20 Feb 2026 |access-date=27 Mar 2026 |website=Revolut}}</ref>

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===App explicitly blocked on Android ROMs claiming data security reasons (''2024 - Present):''===
{{Main|Revolut blocked access for users with custom OS}}
In November 2024, Revolut pushed an update that removed support to users with custom OS on their device. The change was announced through an in-app message, which was shown after a user tried to log in. The change also affected users whom already had an account and funds at the Company.

===Revolut verify ID email spam===
{{Main|Revolut verify ID email spam}}
When a customer does not complete their account setup Revolut sends them emails to pressure them to finish account setup.

==Repeated failure to prevent fraud==
Revolut has a repeated history of being one the most frequently named financial institutions in UK fraud complaints.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-08-14 |title=‘I lost £165k to fraud in an hour’ - customers say they were let down by Revolut |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj6epzxdd77o |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260217213403/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj6epzxdd77o |archive-date=2026-02-17 |access-date=2026-03-31 |work=BBC}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=2024-04-24 |title=Revolut fraud complaints to Ombudsman outstrip all banks |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/revolut-fraud-complaints-to-ombudsman-outstrip-all-banks-aNVWh6O36Jfw |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260304131535/https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/revolut-fraud-complaints-to-ombudsman-outstrip-all-banks-aNVWh6O36Jfw |archive-date=2026-03-04 |access-date=2026-03-31 |work=Which?}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=DRN-4189491 |url=https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/decision/DRN-4189491.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250827233450/https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/decision/DRN-4189491.pdf |archive-date=2025-08-27 |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=Financial Ombudsman Service (UK)}}</ref> The number of complaints of fraud reported to [https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/ Action Fraud], the UK reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, by Revolut customers rose from 567 in February 2023 to 1,086 for February 2024.<ref>{{Cite news |title=I'm a victim of scammers. But Revolut says 'no' to a refund |url=https://www.theguardian.com/money/2024/apr/10/im-a-victim-of-scammers-but-revolut-says-no-to-a-refund |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251201233704/https://www.theguardian.com/money/2024/apr/10/im-a-victim-of-scammers-but-revolut-says-no-to-a-refund |archive-date=2025-12-01 |access-date=2026-03-31 |work=The Guardian}}</ref> According to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), it issued 3,458 fraud and scam-related 'views' to Revolut and its customers in 2023 surpassing any other provider.<ref name=":2" /> These issues arose in spite of the efforts to combat fraud since 2021 by doubling the number of employs tasked to deal with the matter.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-10-31 |title=Revolut doubles financial crime headcount since 2021 to combat fraud |url=https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/1031/1413840-revolut-doubles-financial-crime-headcount-since-2021/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250915090530/https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/1031/1413840-revolut-doubles-financial-crime-headcount-since-2021/ |archive-date=2025-09-15 |access-date=2026-03-31 |work=RTE}}</ref>

Furthermore these issues spark concerns surrounding the aforementioned extensive data collection<ref name=":1" /> not being effective in preventing fraud.

==See also==

*[[Chase Bank]]
*[[PayPal]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Podkicker Pro

2026-03-31T20:39:04Z

Reform: /* Incidents */

{{Stub}}
{{ProductCargo
|ArticleType=
|Category=Software, Podcasting
|Company=
|Description=
|InProduction=Yes
|Logo=PodkickerIcon.jpg
|ProductLine=
|ReleaseYear=2013
|Website=https://podkicker.andro.io/
}}
'''Podkicker''' is an Android podcast manager and player.

The non-pro version was available free in the Android app store from 2013, with the Pro version '''Podkicker Pro''' purchasable for a fixed price. The original developer was Jakob Eriksson.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allum |first=Simon |date=2013 |title=Android App Review – Podkicker Pro |url=https://www.coolsmartphone.com/2013/01/30/android-app-review-podkicker-pro/ |website=Cool Smartphone |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251212032233/https://www.coolsmartphone.com/2013/01/30/android-app-review-podkicker-pro/ |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref>

The development rights to the app were bought by Maple Media LLC in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Android app Podkicker has been sold to player.fm/Maple Media |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/podcasts/comments/hwaobp/android_app_podkicker_has_been_sold_to/ |url-status=live |access-date=21 Mar 2025 |website=[[Reddit]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230616084149/https://old.reddit.com/r/podcasts/comments/hwaobp/android_app_podkicker_has_been_sold_to/ |archive-date=16 Jun 2023}}</ref>
==Incidents==
On 13 March 2025, the Pro version of the app was updated to show prominent animated banner ads and open repeated popups at the user when the screen is touched. The banners are for miscellaneous App Store games and the popups invite the user to join a [[Subscription service|subscription model]] to remove these ads. This is in spite of the user having [[Post-purchase EULA modification|previously purchased]] the paid version of the app on the specific basis it would be ad-free.

The subscription fee requested is £9.49 per year, with recurring billing, as of 14 March 2025, just to use the app on the same terms the user already bought it. This is claimed to represent a reduction from £55.08 despite no subscription fee having previously existed.

As of the 14th March 2025 the app's Android app store received multiple one-star reviews objecting to the change.
==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Podkicker]]
[[Category:Service Siphoning]]

Software locks

2026-03-31T20:24:12Z

Reform: Added deletion request

{{StubNotice}}

As a softer version to [[activation]], and related to [[features on demand]], '''software-gating''' is a method to control access to ''features'' in consumer electronic hardware, but are not inherently anti-consumer as they provide useful for security features.

This definition does not include closed-source, such as [[wikipedia:Proprietary_software|proprietary software]] or [[wikipedia:Proprietary_protocol|proprietary protocols]], as these can still provide the consumer with fully featured access without needing an account, app, or activation. {{DeletionRequest|I merged it with software-gating, and rewired all previous links to this article to Activation - Reform}}See also

*[[Digital rights management]]

==Anti-consumer examples==
===Forced account for data lock-in===
[[Forced account|Requiring an account]] in order to be used, such as with some Google Pixels and specific Android devices, and iPhones needing an Apple account create an easy entry-point for [[data lock-in]], making it harder to switch vendors.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Forced app download===
''Apps'' are a popular method for manufacturers to marketed features behind software locks. Examples of this are:

*Sony headphones requiring app to tweak its EQ

*HVAC app activation of furnace control boards.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Activation & licensing===
When features are locked behind an activation process, it will require server connectivity. Some implications of this include:

*Cloud services that are essential to keep the features working can be put offline

*The digital services can change in quality or become more privacy invasive over time

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Walled garden]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Forced eSIMs

2026-03-31T20:18:19Z

Reform: Fixed bad link

{{StubNotice}}

==Hardware==

===Understanding modern sim card & [[wikipedia:ESIM|'''eSIM''' ('''embedded SIM''')]] hardware.===
The current global modern standard by market adoption for [[wikipedia:SIM_card#Developments|SIM (Subscriber Identity Module)]] cards are Nano-SIM form factor, [[wikipedia:Universal_integrated_circuit_card|Universal integrated circuit card (UICC)]] SOC's (system on a chip) cards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=SIM Card Developments |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIM_card#Developments |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Wikipedia |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260217190656/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIM_Card |archive-date=17 Feb 2026}}</ref> This is the smaller SIM card you started seeing in every handset from every major phone manufacturer beginning with hardware releases after 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nano-SIM |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIM_card#Nano-SIM |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Wikipedia |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128085759/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIM_card |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref> Just like your phone, computer, or any other device, these cards have their own CPU, RAM, ROM and Digital I/O.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Universal integrated circuit card |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_integrated_circuit_card#design |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Wikipedia |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251229230153/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_integrated_circuit_card |archive-date=29 Dec 2025}}</ref> '''eUICC''' (embedded UICC), also known as e-SIM cards, are a form of highly re-programmable SIM typically as [[wikipedia:Ball_grid_array|BGA]] IC chips soldered directly to the phone's logic board during manufacturing.

===iPhone===
Apple introduced eUICC chips & eSIM support alongside the release of the [[wikipedia:IPhone_12|iPhone 12]] series in 2020<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iPhone 12 |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_12-10509.php |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=GSM Arena |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128125301/https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_12-10509.php |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhone 12 |url=https://www.apple.com/by/iphone-12/specs/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=[[Apple]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250728172557/https://www.apple.com/by/iphone-12/specs/ |archive-date=28 Jul 2025}}</ref> and has continued this feature to date.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhones with eSIM support |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/results.php3?chkESIM=selected&chkReview=selected&sMakers=48&sAvailabilities=1,2&s5Gs=0&idCardslot=3 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=GSM Arena |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250405083105/https://www.gsmarena.com/results.php3?s5Gs=0&idCardslot=3&chkESIM=selected&chkReview=selected&sMakers=48&sAvailabilities=1%2C2 |archive-date=5 Apr 2025}}</ref> With the launch of the US model of the iPhone 14 series, iPhones dropped hardware support of user replaceable UICC Nano-SIM cards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iPhone 14 |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_14-11861.php |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=GSM Arena |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128034701/https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_14-11861.php |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=About eSIM on iPhone |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/118669 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=[[Apple]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260209120313/https://support.apple.com/en-us/118669 |archive-date=9 Feb 2026}}</ref> According to Apple, "'''iPhone 14''' models and later that are '''eSIM only''' can activate without a Wi-Fi network."<ref name=":2" /> In all other Apple model varieties that came out prior to mid 2025 - International and China - Nano-SIM remained supported outside the United States; by the 14 series, 15 series and 16 series. The 17 series drops Nano-SIM support in 11 additional countries: Bahrain, Canada, Guam, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the U.S. Virgin Islands <ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=9 Sep 2025 |title=iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Models Are eSIM-Only in These Countries |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/09/iphone-17-esim-only-countries-list/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=MacRumors |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251230022641/https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/09/iphone-17-esim-only-countries-list/ |archive-date=30 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Apple iPhone 17 won't accept SIM cards in Canada |url=https://www.blogto.com/tech/2025/09/apple-iphone-17-sim-cards-canada/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=BlogTo |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250923221624/https://www.blogto.com/tech/2025/09/apple-iphone-17-sim-cards-canada/ |archive-date=23 Sep 2025}}</ref>. All versions of the 17 Air iPhone model, in all countries, only support eSIM<ref name=":3" />. (Most recent edit as of writing 2/23/2026)

This transition raised further concerns about potentials for abuse if unregulated, including [[wikipedia:Vendor_lock-in|Vendor lock in]], [[planned obsolescence]], and [[Anti competitive behavior]] in the form of [[used market restrictions]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Control is yours. |url=https://www.apple.com/privacy/control/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=[[Apple]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128152438/https://www.apple.com/privacy/control/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Planned obsolescence |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planned_obsolescence |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Wikipedia |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128190628/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planned_obsolescence |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref>

As a workaround, on most newer iPhones, the Chinese dual SIM reader and dual SIM tray can be manually installed by the user or a repair technician who is '''not''' part of Apple's official repair program. This likely voids the warranty in most regions, but allows non-China iPhones to use two SIM cards.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@PhoneRepairGuru |date=2023-06-02 |title=We Put China's Dual Sim Mod In This iPhone.. |url=https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VC_Tp7minPY |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=YouTube}}</ref>

===Future speculation===
'''''-NOTE- The sources below are not to this wiki's overall standards of credibility and will likely be changed to first party sources from the manufacturer later once more reliable information is available. This section was written before the iPhone 17 came out.'''''

*iPhone 17 Air:

According to unofficial preliminary specifications for the iPhone 17 Air, support for Nano-SIM will be entirely dropped for the model across the world.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iPhone 17 Air |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_17_air-13502.php |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=GSM Arena |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260130164354/https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_17_air-13502.php |archive-date=30 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Find wireless carriers and worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service on iPhone |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/101569 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=[[Apple]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124005519/https://support.apple.com/en-us/101569 |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=SIM Tray |url=https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-17/#sim_tray |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Mac Rumors |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260218012315/https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-17/ |archive-date=18 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ma |first=Wayne |last2=Liu |first2=Qianer |title=Apple’s Thin iPhone Has No Physical SIMs—That Could Dampen China Sales |url=https://www.theinformation.com/articles/apples-thin-iphone-has-no-physical-sims-that-could-dampen-china-sales |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=www.theinformation.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260207121430/https://www.theinformation.com/articles/apples-thin-iphone-has-no-physical-sims-that-could-dampen-china-sales |archive-date=7 Feb 2026}}</ref> This is based on rumors and speculations, however the physical size of the device has been disclosed as "5.5mm" by Ming-Chi Kuo (a medium tech trade blogger described as "TF International Securities analyst who shares observations and predictions of tech industry trends"), which would make Nano-SIM support a significant enough engineering challenge, as it's widely considered unviable and/or unlikely.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kuo |first=Ming-Chi |date=10 Jan 2025 |title=Apple在2025年可能將面臨更為嚴峻的挑戰，須謹慎面對市場先前過度樂觀導致的潛在下行風險 |url=https://medium.com/@mingchikuo/apple%E5%9C%A82025%E5%B9%B4%E5%8F%AF%E8%83%BD%E5%B0%87%E9%9D%A2%E8%87%A8%E6%9B%B4%E7%82%BA%E5%9A%B4%E5%B3%BB%E7%9A%84%E6%8C%91%E6%88%B0-%E9%A0%88%E8%AC%B9%E6%85%8E%E9%9D%A2%E5%B0%8D%E5%B8%82%E5%A0%B4%E5%85%88%E5%89%8D%E9%81%8E%E5%BA%A6%E6%A8%82%E8%A7%80%E5%B0%8E%E8%87%B4%E7%9A%84%E6%BD%9B%E5%9C%A8%E4%B8%8B%E8%A1%8C%E9%A2%A8%E9%9A%AA-6256c091f06d |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Medium |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004011109/https://medium.com/@mingchikuo/apple%E5%9C%A82025%E5%B9%B4%E5%8F%AF%E8%83%BD%E5%B0%87%E9%9D%A2%E8%87%A8%E6%9B%B4%E7%82%BA%E5%9A%B4%E5%B3%BB%E7%9A%84%E6%8C%91%E6%88%B0-%E9%A0%88%E8%AC%B9%E6%85%8E%E9%9D%A2%E5%B0%8D%E5%B8%82%E5%A0%B4%E5%85%88%E5%89%8D%E9%81%8E%E5%BA%A6%E6%A8%82%E8%A7%80%E5%B0%8E%E8%87%B4%E7%9A%84%E6%BD%9B%E5%9C%A8%E4%B8%8B%E8%A1%8C%E9%A2%A8%E9%9A%AA-6256c091f06d |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

'''''End note -'''''

The industry transition to '''Integrated SIM (iSIM)''' will be indistinguishable from EUICC e-SIMs to the end user. However with iSIM, it would be embedded directly into the phone's SoC or CPU die.<ref>{{Cite web |title=eSIM |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ESIM |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=Wikipedia |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128044138/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ESIM |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref> This will irreversibly link data identifiers like SIM ID history with the device's IMEI and hardware IDs, even through highly technical means such as micro-soldering.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Liu |first=Haoyu |last2=Patras |first2=Paul |last3=Leith |first3=Douglas J. |date=18 Jan 2023 |title=On the data privacy practices of Android OEMs |url=https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9847909/#sec001 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=National Library of Medicine |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708183216/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9847909/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref>

This transition would raise further concerns about potentials for abuse if unregulated, including [[wikipedia:Vendor_lock-in|Vendor lock in]], [[planned obsolescence]], and [[Anti competitive behavior]], in the form of [[Activation|used market restrictions]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />

===Samsung Galaxy===
Samsung introduced e-SIM support in 2020 with the Galaxy S20 series of phones and continues nano-SIM support to the current day as of writing (with 2025's S25 series of Galaxy phones.)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Samsung phones with eSIM support |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung-phones-9.php |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2025 |website=GSM Arena |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220164816/https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung-phones-9.php |archive-date=20 Feb 2026}}</ref>

===Google Pixel===
Google Pixel 10 series no longer support nano-SIM in the US<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schenck |first=Stephen |date=22 Aug 2025 |title=Google abandoning physical SIM cards on the Pixel 10 is an abject loss for consumers |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/killing-sim-cards-3590141/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250826013428/https://www.androidauthority.com/killing-sim-cards-3590141/ |archive-date=26 Aug 2025 |access-date=27 Aug 2025 |website=Android Authority}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Schoon |first=Ben |date=20 Aug 2025 |title=Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL remove support for physical SIM cards in the US |url=https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/pixel-10-10-pro-and-10-pro-xl-remove-support-for-physical-sim-cards-in-the-us/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250820171129/https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/pixel-10-10-pro-and-10-pro-xl-remove-support-for-physical-sim-cards-in-the-us/ |archive-date=20 Aug 2025 |access-date=27 Aug 2025 |website=9to5Google}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Richard |first=Isaiah |date=22 Aug 2025 |title=Google Pixel 10 Now eSIM Exclusive, Ditches Physical SIM Cards But Makes Transfers Easier |url=https://www.techtimes.com/articles/311650/20250822/google-pixel-10-now-esim-exclusive-ditches-physical-sim-cards-makes-transfers-easier.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250823085228/https://www.techtimes.com/articles/311650/20250822/google-pixel-10-now-esim-exclusive-ditches-physical-sim-cards-makes-transfers-easier.htm |archive-date=23 Aug 2025 |access-date=27 Aug 2025 |website=Techtimes}}</ref>.

==Mobile carriers & Networks==

===United states Mobile phone networks===
A fairly recent behavior of major mobile carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) is that they may sometimes supply devices with a digital SIM card, or eSIM card without the option of a traditional Nano-SIM alternative.{{Citation needed}}

===European Union's mobile phone networks{{Citation needed}}===
eUICC/eSIM tech is basically not yet widely adopted in this market *

===Canadian mobile phone networks<ref name=":4" />===
eUICC/eSIM tech is not yet fully adopted in this market . Some carriers do not fully support eSIM and some require an additional fee.

===China's Mobile phone networks===
eUICC/eSIM tech is basically not yet widely adopted in this market *

==References==
{{reflist}}

Tesla locks horsepower behind paywall

2026-03-31T20:15:34Z

Reform: Updated link

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Tesla
|StartDate=
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Model Y, Model 3
|Product=
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Digital Restrictions, Firmware, Ownership, Rent-seeking
|Description=Tesla charges $2,000 to allow full power from the motors in Model Y and Model 3 cars.
}}
'''[[Tesla, Inc.|Tesla]]''' charges $2,000 to unlock an additional 50–100 horsepower from the existing dual-motor hardware in the Model Y and Model 3, reducing its 0–60 mph acceleration time by 0.4–0.5 seconds through software changes alone.

==Background==
Tesla has been the pioneer car manufacturer of over-the-air (OTA) software updates, being the first ever to send one in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Newcomb |first=Doug |last2=Lugo |first2=Ryan |date=11 Apr 2025 |title=Still Loading: The Slow Roll of Automotive Over-the-Air Updates |url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250411131734/https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout/ |archive-date=11 Apr 2025 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=motortrend.com}}</ref> While having full control of the software and being able to send updates can benefit customers in many ways, it enables the manufacturer to software-lock certain features and hardware that are present and otherwise functional in the car.

This has been the case for the '''Acceleration Boost''', an over-the-air software upgrade that improves the 0–60 mph acceleration of supported vehicles by 0.4–0.5 seconds, which was officially launched in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lambert |first=Fred |date=19 Dec 2019 |title=Tesla launches $2,000 ‘Acceleration Boost’ for 3.9s 0-60 mph in Model 3 Dual Motor |url=https://electrek.co/2019/12/19/tesla-acceleration-boost-model-3-dual-motor/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220001849/https://electrek.co/2019/12/19/tesla-acceleration-boost-model-3-dual-motor/ |archive-date=20 Dec 2019 |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=electrek.co}}</ref> Initially exclusive to the Long Range Model 3, it is now also available for the Long Range Model Y.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Alvarez |first=Simon |date=5 May 2025 |title=Tesla releases paid performance upgrade for new Model Y |url=https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-new-model-y-paid-performance-upgrade/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250505141458/https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-new-model-y-paid-performance-upgrade/ |archive-date=5 May 2025 |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=teslarati.com}}</ref>

==How it works==
The OTA upgrade is available only as a one-time purchase of $2000 and exclusively for AWD versions, as the RWD variants only have a single motor at the rear.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Jun 2025 |title=Tesla offers acceleration boost upgrade for the new Model Y |url=https://evannex.com/blogs/news/tesla-offers-acceleration-boost-upgrade-for-the-new-model-y |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718174935/https://evannex.com/blogs/news/tesla-offers-acceleration-boost-upgrade-for-the-new-model-y |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=evannex.com}}</ref> The AWD Model 3 and Model Y are already equipped with dual motors capable of delivering the additional performance provided by the upgrade, but their full power is software-locked, requiring customers to pay for hardware they already own.

In the following chart is the 0-60 performance comparison between the Long Range model with and without the upgrade and the Performance model:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aguirre |first=Jorge |date=28 Oct 2022 |title=Tesla Acceleration Boost: A Complete Guide |url=https://www.notateslaapp.com/tesla-reference/1040/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028171156/https://www.notateslaapp.com/tesla-reference/1040/ |archive-date=28 Oct 2022 |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=notateslaapp.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|Model
|Long Range
|Acceleration Boost
|Performance
|-
|Model 3
|4.2 seconds
|3.7 seconds
|3.1 seconds
|-
|Model Y
|4.8 seconds
|4.3 seconds
|3.5 seconds
|}

==See also==

*[[Tesla locks heated rear seats behind paywall]]
*[[Tesla locks battery range behind paywall]]
*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Volkswagen locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Tesla]]
[[Category:Tesla Model Y]]
[[Category:Tesla Model 3]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:14:19Z

Reform: Minifix3

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

==Reasons it exists==

===Pro-consumer===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

*'''Customization''': It allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice or hue-changing lamps.
*'''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

#'''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
#'''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

===Anti-consumer===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription.

Examples of anti-consumer software-gating:

*'''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
*'''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

#'''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
#'''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
#'''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:13:42Z

Reform: Minifix2

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

==Reasons it exists==

===Pro-consumer===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

*'''Customization''': It allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice or hue-changing lamps.
*'''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

#'''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
#'''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

===Anti-consumer===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription.

Examples of anti-consumer software-gates:

*'''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
*'''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

#'''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
#'''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
#'''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Tesla locks heated rear seats behind paywall

2026-03-31T20:11:37Z

Reform: Fixed link

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Tesla
|StartDate=2020
|EndDate=2022
|Status=Resolved
|ProductLine=
|Product=Model 3
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Digital Restrictions, Firmware, Ownership, Rent-seeking
|Description=Tesla charged $300 to unlock heated seats through software in Model 3 variants.
}}
'''[[Tesla, Inc.|Tesla]]''' charged $300 for rear heated seats in Model 3 Standard Range variants where the heating hardware was already installed but software-disabled. Tesla discontinued this practice in 2022 following customer criticism.

==Background==
Tesla has been the pioneer car manufacturer of over-the-air (OTA) software updates, being the first ever to send one in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Newcomb |first=Doug |last2=Lugo |first2=Ryan |date=11 Apr 2025 |title=Still Loading: The Slow Roll of Automotive Over-the-Air Updates |url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250411131734/https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout/ |archive-date=11 Apr 2025 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=motortrend.com}}</ref> While having full control of the software and being able ustto send updates can benefit comers in many ways, it enables the manufacturer to software-lock certain features and hardware that are present and otherwise functional in the car.

==Incident==
This has been the case for the Model 3 Standard Range and Standard Range Plus between 2020 and 2022, where not only was the heated seats hardware already present, but it was also enabled for the first few months in the case of the Standard Range Plus. Tesla then software-locked this feature behind a $300 paywall.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Klender |first=Joey |date=15 Feb 2020 |title=Tesla unlocks rear heated seats for Model 3 SR and SR Plus as paid OTA upgrade |url=https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-3-rear-heated-seats-standard-range/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200216100232/https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-3-rear-heated-seats-standard-range/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2020 |access-date=22 Aug 2022 |website=teslarati.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Loveday |first=Steven |date=18 Feb 2020 |title=Tesla Model 3 Heated Rear Seats: Simple, Fast & Inexpensive Process |url=https://insideevs.com/news/399322/tesla-mode-3-heated-rear-seats-upgrade/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406142246/https://insideevs.com/news/399322/tesla-mode-3-heated-rear-seats-upgrade/ |archive-date=6 Apr 2020 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=insideevs.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lambert |first=Fred |date=15 Feb 2020 |title=Tesla starts selling rear-heated seats on Model 3 SR and SR Plus as $300 OTA upgrade |url=https://electrek.co/2020/02/15/tesla-rear-heated-seats-model-3-ota-upgrades/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215192737/https://electrek.co/2020/02/15/tesla-rear-heated-seats-model-3-ota-upgrades/ |archive-date=15 Feb 2020 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=electrek.co}}</ref>

Due to consumer backlash, the feature has become a free option since the 2022 model year and has been enabled in some older models.<ref>{{Cite web |last=r/TeslaModel3 |title=I just noticed rear seat heating option has been activated for free! |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TeslaModel3/comments/u3jxnc/i_just_noticed_rear_seat_heating_option_has_been/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20220414152213/https://old.reddit.com/r/TeslaModel3/comments/u3jxnc/i_just_noticed_rear_seat_heating_option_has_been/ |archive-date=14 Apr 2022|access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>

==See also==

*[[Tesla locks battery range behind paywall]]
*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Volkswagen locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Tesla]]
[[Category:Tesla Model 3]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:09:09Z

Reform: Minifix

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

==Reasons it exists==

===Pro-consumer===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

*'''Customization''': It allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice or hue-changing lamps.
*'''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

#'''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
#'''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

===Anti-consumer===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription. Examples of this being:

Examples of anti-consumer software-gates:

*'''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
*'''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

#'''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
#'''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
#'''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:08:23Z

Reform: Redundancy

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

==Reasons it exists==

===Pro-consumer===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

*'''Customization''': It allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice and hue-changing lamps.
*'''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

#'''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
#'''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

===Anti-consumer===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription. Examples of this being:

Examples of anti-consumer software-gates:

*'''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
*'''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

#'''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
#'''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
#'''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:07:37Z

Reform: /* Reason it exists */

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

==Reasons it exists==

===Pro-consumer===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

*'''Customization''': External software that allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice and hue-changing lamps.
*'''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

#'''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
#'''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

===Anti-consumer===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription. Examples of this being:

Examples of anti-consumer software-gates:

*'''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
*'''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

#'''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
#'''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
#'''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T20:07:16Z

Reform: Full overhaul. Now it fully distinguishes itself from all the adjacent themes, such as: DRM, features on demand, and forced app download.

{{Incomplete}}

Related to [[forced app download]], '''software-gating''' or '''software companion''' is a method to control device features through ''external'' means in consumer electronic hardware. It is characterized by a dependence on that external software/app to configure or control some part of a device.

== Reason it exists ==

=== Pro-consumer ===
Software-gating is not inherently anti-consumer as it can provide useful in some scenarios. Examples of this being:

* '''Customization''': External software that allows the user to finely tune device behavior, which would be really hard to implement with hardware buttons and switches. Examples of that being a piece of software to program the behavior of RGB keyboards, mice and hue-changing lamps.
* '''Security features:''' Authentication devices that utilize software dependency to create security benefits for consumers.

Signs for pro-consumer software companion:

# '''Community software:''' The software vendor is open to user feedback, transparent about its roadmap, and is generally kept in check by its users, rather than the other way around.
# '''Free software license''': The software vendor provides the source-code of the software, released under an open-source license, either [[wikipedia:Copyleft|copyleft]] or [[wikipedia:Permissive_software_license|permissive]]. This protects user choice, for example if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it can be fully modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.

=== Anti-consumer ===
Software-gating becomes a problem when it limits the consumer's choice, their only options being privacy invasive, cloud-dependent, or intentionally limited in favor of paying a subscription. Examples of this being:

Examples of anti-consumer software-gates:

* '''Unnecessary app:''' What could have easily been done with hardware switches or displays, is now instead done with an external app in order to exert more control over the customer. This is often marketed as a way to provide extended functionality, while in reality it is a solution in search of a problem.
* '''Privacy invasive:''' The app fully tracks its users to sell their data to advertisers.

Signs for anti-consumer software:

# '''Features on demand:''' The software vendor restricts features in purchased hardware for the sake of a subscription-based business model. This inherently creates most of the problems below.
# '''Company-first software:''' The software does not release their source-code, nor is not open to user feedback, and risk making it hard to use if the company goes into bankruptcy, or the software has privacy issues, because it cannot be modified and legally redistributed by an independent party.
# '''Software dependence:''' Permanently locked bootloaders that limit what a consumer can run on their device. This means being dependent on the goodwill of the software vendors to respect the user's privacy, freedom of choice (for what is still left of it).

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Features on demand]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Tesla locks battery range behind paywall

2026-03-31T18:40:46Z

Reform: Link update

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Tesla
|StartDate=2024
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=RWD Model Y
|Product=
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Digital Restrictions, Firmware, Ownership, Rent-seeking
|Description=Pre-2024 RWD Model Y electric cars require a $1,600 payment to unlock the full battery range.
}}
All rear-wheel-drive (RWD) '''[[Tesla, Inc.|Tesla]]''' Model Y vehicles sold before May 2024 were advertised with a 260-mile range, despite being equipped with battery hardware capable of approximately 320 miles. Tesla offers a paid software update for $1,600 to unlock this additional capacity.

==Background==
Tesla has been the pioneer car manufacturer of over-the-air (OTA) software updates, being the first ever to send one in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Newcomb |first=Doug |last2=Lugo |first2=Ryan |date=11 Apr 2025 |title=Still Loading: The Slow Roll of Automotive Over-the-Air Updates |url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250411131734/https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-are-over-the-air-updates-ota-technology-rollout/ |archive-date=11 Apr 2025 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=motortrend.com}}</ref> While having full control of the software and being able to send updates can benefit customers in many ways, it enables the manufacturer to software-lock certain features and hardware that are present and otherwise functional in the car.

==How it works==
This has been the case for all Model Y RWD vehicles sold prior to May 2024, now superseded by the RWD Model Y Long Range. The first was advertised and sold with a 260-mile range, the second with a 320-mile one. The two vehicles have same nickel battery, weight, and charging curves, but customers who purchased the non-Long Range model have to pay $1600 to unlock the full capacity.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=5 May 2024 |title=Tesla plans to charge some Model Y owners to unlock more range |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/5/24149447/tesla-model-y-software-locked-battery-capacity |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240505164053/https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/5/24149447/tesla-model-y-software-locked-battery-capacity |archive-date=5 May 2024 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=The Verge}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ali |first=Iqtidar |date=18 Jul 2024 |title=Tesla Model Y RWD owners can unlock 50 miles of extra range for $1,600 via an OTA update |url=https://www.teslaoracle.com/2024/07/18/tesla-model-y-rwd-owners-can-unlock-50-miles-of-extra-range-for-1600-via-an-ota-update/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718210100/https://www.teslaoracle.com/2024/07/18/tesla-model-y-rwd-owners-can-unlock-50-miles-of-extra-range-for-1600-via-an-ota-update/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2024 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=teslaoracle.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=7 May 2024 |title=Model Y Update: Current Tesla RWD Model Y Owners Can Pay to Unlock Extra Range |url=https://electrifynews.com/news/auto/existing-tesla-rwd-model-y-owners-can-pay-to-unlock-extra-range/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525143800/https://electrifynews.com/news/auto/existing-tesla-rwd-model-y-owners-can-pay-to-unlock-extra-range/ |archive-date=25 May 2024 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=electrifynews.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Poultney |first=Leon |date=7 May 2024 |title=Want more range on your Tesla Model Y? You might have to pay extra to unlock it |url=https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/want-more-range-on-your-tesla-model-y-you-might-have-to-pay-extra-to-unlock-it |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507134720/https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/want-more-range-on-your-tesla-model-y-you-might-have-to-pay-extra-to-unlock-it |archive-date=7 May 2024 |access-date=22 Aug 2025 |website=techradar.com}}</ref> Below the details:

*Full range was not available as a factory option
*It can be added to all RWD Model Y sold prior to May 2024
*It can only be bought outright for a $1600 one time fee
*The range will be unlocked by an OTA software update

==See also==

*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Volkswagen locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Tesla]]
[[Category:Tesla Model Y]]

Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription

2026-03-31T18:39:03Z

Reform: Updated link and small fix

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Mercedes-Benz
|StartDate=2023-04
|EndDate=
|Status=
|ProductLine=
|Product=EQE 350, EQS 450
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Firmware Lockout, Rent-seeking
|Description=
}}
'''[[Mercedes-Benz|Mercedes]]''' initially marketed and sold their EQE 350 and EQS 450 models with a lower power output than the hardware was capable of delivering. The company later introduced a paid software upgrade that unlocked the vehicles' full performance potential.

==Background==
In April 2023, Mercedes launched "Acceleration Increase" for North American customer, a performance acceleration on-demand upgrade available for the EQE 350 and EQS 450 in both sedan and SUV body styles. The upgrade allows customers to access the full capabilities of the vehicle's existing hardware.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=26 Apr 2023 |title=Mercedes-Benz USA Announces Performance Acceleration On-Demand Upgrade for EQE and EQS Customers |url=https://media.mbusa.com/releases/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-performance-acceleration-on-demand-upgrade-for-eqe-and-eqs-customers |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=media.mbusa.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230507130823/https://media.mbusa.com/releases/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-performance-acceleration-on-demand-upgrade-for-eqe-and-eqs-customers |archive-date=7 May 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bell |first=Sebastien |date=22 Nov 2022 |title=Mercedes Releases A $1,200 Annual Subscription To Unlock A 60 To 110 HP For Its EVs |url=https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/mercedes-releases-a-1200-annual-subscription-service-to-add-an-extra-60-to-110-hp-to-its-evs/ |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=carscoops.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20221123090409/https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/mercedes-releases-a-1200-annual-subscription-service-to-add-an-extra-60-to-110-hp-to-its-evs/ |archive-date=23 Nov 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stafford |first=Eric |date=26 Apr 2023 |title=Mercedes Reveals EQE and EQS 'Acceleration Increase' Subscription Pricing |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a43713075/mercedes-benz-eqe350-eqs450-acceleration-increase-subscription-pricing/ |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=caranddriver.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222223452/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a43713075/mercedes-benz-eqe350-eqs450-acceleration-increase-subscription-pricing/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

This is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a growing trend among automakers to base their business models on recurring revenue generated through subscription services that sell [[features on demand]].

==How it works==
The Acceleration Increase is available as a one-time purchase or as a monthly or yearly subscription, offering performance increases of up to 80 hp and a 1.0-second improvement in 0–60 mph acceleration.<ref name=":0" />

Below are the detailed performance upgrades and pricing for all affected models:<ref name=":0" />
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Model'''
|'''Output Increase'''
|'''Acceleration Change'''

'''(0-60 mph)'''
|'''Pricing'''
|-
|EQE 350 4MATIC Sedan
|From 288 hp to 348 hp (+60 hp)
|From 6.0 s to 5.1 s (-0.9 s)
|Monthly: $60/month

Yearly: $600/year

Lifetime of Vehicle: $1,950
|-
|EQE 350 4MATIC SUV
|From 288 hp to 348 hp (+60 hp)
|From 6.2 s to 5.2 s (-1.0 s)
|Monthly: $60/month

Yearly: $600/year

Lifetime of Vehicle: $1,950
|-
|EQS 450 4MATIC Sedan
|From 355 hp to 435 hp (+80 hp)
|From 5.3 s to 4.5 s (-0.8 s)
|Monthly: $90/month

Yearly: $900/year

Lifetime of Vehicle: $2,950
|-
|EQS 450 4MATIC SUV
|From 355 hp to 435 hp (+80 hp)
|From 5.8 s to 4.9 s (-0.9 s)
|Monthly: $90/month

Yearly: $900/year

Lifetime of Vehicle: $2,950
|}
This means that these vehicles were initially marketed has having lower power than their hardware was actually capable of.

==See also==

*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Mercedes Benz]]
[[Category:Mercedes Benz EQS]]
[[Category:Mercedes Benz EQE]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T18:36:36Z

Reform: Small fix

{{Incomplete}}

As a softer version to [[activation]], and related to [[features on demand]], '''software-gating''' is a method to control access to ''features'' in consumer electronic hardware, but are not inherently anti-consumer as they provide useful for security features.

This definition does not include closed-source, such as [[wikipedia:Proprietary_software|proprietary software]] or [[wikipedia:Proprietary_protocol|proprietary protocols]], as these can still provide the consumer with fully featured access without needing an account, app, or activation.

==Anti-consumer examples==
===Forced account for data lock-in===
[[Forced account|Requiring an account]] in order to be used, such as with some Google Pixels and specific Android devices, and iPhones needing an Apple account create an easy entry-point for [[data lock-in]], making it harder to switch vendors.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Forced app download===
''Apps'' are a popular method for manufacturers to put marketed features behind software-gates. Examples of this are:

*Sony headphones requiring app to tweak its EQ

*HVAC app activation of furnace control boards.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Activation & licensing===
When features are locked behind an activation process, it will require server connectivity. Some implications of this include:

*Cloud services that are essential to keep the features working can be put offline

*The digital services can change in quality or become more privacy invasive over time

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Walled garden]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription

2026-03-31T18:34:57Z

Reform: Link update, and improved some sentences, and adjusted some formatting according to wiki style guide

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Mercedes-Benz
|StartDate=2021
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=EQS
|Product=
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Firmware Lockout, Rent-seeking, Ownership
|Description=Mercedes-Benz EQS vehicles have restricted rear-wheel steering unless customers unlock the full range of motion with a subscription.
}}
In Germany, '''[[Mercedes-Benz]]''' '''EQS''' vehicles are equipped with rear wheels that can steer up to 10 degrees. However, customers who do not sign up for a subscription will only have a 4.5 degree range of rear wheel steering. The feature is not available for purchase outright, and enabling it costs €489 (about $571) a year or around €1,169 ($1,376) to activate the service for up to three years upfront.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Teague |first=Chris |date=26 Jul 2021 |title=Mercedes-Benz EQS Rear-Wheel Steer Requires Subscription |url=https://www.jdpower.com/automotive-news/mercedes-benz-eqs-rear-wheel-steer-requires-subscription |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=jdpower.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211220003757/https://www.jdpower.com/automotive-news/mercedes-benz-eqs-rear-wheel-steer-requires-subscription |archive-date=20 Dec 2021}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Tsui |first=Chris |date=26 Jul 2021 |title=Full Rear-Wheel Steering on Mercedes EQS Will Be $575 Annual Subscription in Germany: Report |url=https://www.thedrive.com/tech/41678/full-rear-wheel-steering-on-mercedes-eqs-will-be-575-annual-subscription-in-germany-report |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112132720/https://www.thedrive.com/tech/41678/full-rear-wheel-steering-on-mercedes-eqs-will-be-575-annual-subscription-in-germany-report |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Padeanu |first=Adrian |date=23 Jul 2021 |title=Mercedes Charging $575 Per Year In Germany For 10-Degree Rear Steering On EQS |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/521960/mercedes-eqs-rear-wheel-steering/ |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=motor1.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250823104301/https://www.motor1.com/news/521960/mercedes-eqs-rear-wheel-steering/ |archive-date=23 Aug 2025}}</ref>

==Background==
Rear-wheel steering isn't a new technology as it has been around for decades, with the Nissan R31 Skyline pioneering the system back in 1985.<ref name=":2" /> But by putting hardware capabilities behind a paywall through software-locks, Mercedes-Benz is following the trend of modern car manufacturers. The market practices have shifted from how cars have worked since their invention, as they're no longer independent devices, requiring constant connection to the manufacturer's servers. This change isn't driven by necessity, but rather by business incentives such as:

*Recurring revenue through [[Subscription service|subscription services]]
*[[Volkswagen car-location data-exposure incident|Collecting drivers’ data]] that is then sold to insurance companies

==How it works==
Every EQS model is equipped with rear-wheel steering capable of a 10-degree range, but customers who do not pay for a subscription have this feature limited to 4.5 degrees. The process works like this:

*Full range is not available as a factory option<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />
*It is only available as a yearly subscription (€489 a year or €1,169 for 3 years)<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />
*It cannot be bought outright for a one time charge<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />

This means customers are paying for a hardware in their car that can never truly be theirs.

==See also==

*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Mercedes Benz]]
[[Category:Mercedes Benz EQS]]

Audi basic HVAC "Sync" function paywalled

2026-03-31T18:25:15Z

Reform: Changed a link and made style adjustments according to wiki style guide

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|StartDate=April 2022
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Audi Q4 E-Tron
|Product=Audi Q4 E-Tron
|ArticleType=Incident
|Type=Digital Restrictions, Firmware Lockout, Ownership
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}

'''[[Audi]]''' equips all vehicles with the optional tri-zone climate control feature with the necessary hardware. Customers who do not purchase the option at the time of sale still receive the hardware, but the feature is disabled via software. Enabling it later via a remote software update costs $758. Reminders prompting a purchase are displayed if a user presses the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sync button before the feature is unlocked.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

==Background==
[[Audi]] is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of [[Volkswagen]].

Before 2022, if an Audi vehicle owner opted out of purchasing a specific feature, any buttons associated with that feature would be replaced with blank plastic panels, often called "blank buttons." Pressing these blank buttons would not activate any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251105204029/https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function |archive-date=5 Nov 2025}}</ref>

However, the [[features on demand]] (FoD) business model is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
In 2022, an owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215233928/https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref> However, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032423/https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether [[Audi]] was planning to introduce FoD features or not.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032548/https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> [[Audi]] insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==
Some users on [[Reddit]], in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260208195211/https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software |archive-date=8 Feb 2026}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed to features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, they would "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250908190806/https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/ |archive-date=8 Sep 2025}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

==See also==

*[[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Tesla locks battery range behind paywall]]
*[[Tesla locks heated rear seats behind paywall]]
*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Activation]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Audi]]
[[Category:2022 incidents]]

KingSong

2026-03-31T18:17:51Z

Reform: Link update and styling adjustments according to wiki style guide

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=2012
|Logo=KingSong Logo.png
|Industry=Personal Electric Vehicles
|Type=Private
|Website=https://kingsong.com/
|Description=Founded in 2012 and based in Shenzhen, China, King Song Intell Co., LTD is a private high-tech manufacturer specializing in personal electric vehicles
}}

'''KingSong''' is a manufacturer of electric unicycles.

==Consumer-impact summary==
'''User Privacy:''' Customers are forced to download the app in order to use their product, which collects extensive and unnecessary data.

'''Business Model:''' Products are [[Activation|software-locked]] and geo-fenced to prevent grey market sales.

==Incidents==

===Unnecessary Permissions===
The King Song app demonstrates a significant privacy invasion issue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Benphysics |date=7 Jul 2019 |title=Kingsong, one of China's spy channels on the rest of the world??? |url=https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/14464-kingsong-one-of-chinas-spy-channels-on-the-rest-of-the-world/ |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=forum.electricunicycle.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004104054/https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/14464-kingsong-one-of-chinas-spy-channels-on-the-rest-of-the-world/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref> On Android devices, the app reportedly demands an extensive list of intrusive permissions, including access to phone calls, media, and the ability to record audio and video, and will not function if these are denied. This effectively coerces Android users into granting broad and unnecessary access to their personal data and device functions.

The reality for Android users is a forced choice between using the product and surrendering their data, which fundamentally undermines user.

This strict moderation and oversight explain why the iOS version of the King Song app appears to be far less invasive. Apple's review process acts as a gatekeeper, preventing developers from publishing apps that engage in the kind of overreaching data practices reported on the Android version. Apple's policies require developers to: Request only necessary permissions, Be transparent, Avoid coerced consent.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stenhach |first=Oleksii |date=20 Feb 2025 |title=How to Pass a Manual App Store Review: App Store Review Guidelines |url=https://radaso.com/blog/how-to-pass-a-manual-app-store-review-app-store-review-guidelines |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=radaso.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260114204814/https://radaso.com/blog/how-to-pass-a-manual-app-store-review-app-store-review-guidelines |archive-date=14 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===Ransomware practice: Coercion to download the app to use the product===
The King Song business model requires new electric unicycles to be activated via the official King Song mobile application. This process is mandatory and often includes a "beginner mode" that limits the wheel's performance until a certain distance has been ridden or the mode is deactivated through the app. The requirement to use the app for initial setup and full functionality has been a source of significant frustration for consumers. User reports describe instances where a failure to connect or register with the app, often due to an IP address that doesn't match the wheel's intended market, leaves the user with a non-functional device—a "beeping brick"<ref>{{Cite web |last=@NathanRN42 |date=2025-03-01 |title=KingSong woes |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ElectricUnicycle/comments/1kfctor/kingsong_woes/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>

This practice represents a form of Digital Rights Management (DRM) that extends beyond software and into physical hardware. A consumer who has fully paid for a physical product is unable to use it as intended without complying with the manufacturer's software and connectivity requirements. This holds the product's full functionality in a state of digital "hostage," which challenges the foundational principle of consumer ownership. It also raises questions about the consumer's ability to repair and maintain their device independently. The fact that a failed firmware update can potentially "brick" the Battery Management System (BMS) of a wheel further illustrates the potential for a device to be rendered useless by a manufacturer-controlled software error, highlighting a significant constraint on user freedom and the right to repair.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bake |first=Marty |date=2024-06-25 |title=KingSong S16 BMS Bricked And Then Fixed |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5duw5mB9XY |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>

===The Digital Wall===
The company's use of software-based controls to enforce market segmentation and prevent "grey market" price erosion creates a digital wall that fundamentally alters the nature of product ownership. The ability of the manufacturer to remotely disable a product that has been paid for and sold to a consumer challenges a fundamental legal concept in many jurisdictions: the ''first-sale doctrine''. This principle holds that once a copyright owner sells a copy of their work, they lose the right to control its subsequent distribution. In this context, the manufacturer's ability to "brick" a product after the sale is complete is seen by many in the community as a violation of ''property rights''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Boilerdog359 |date=2020-11-16 |title=Kingsong region locking |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ElectricUnicycle/comments/jvcs8i/kingsong_region_locking/ |access-date=23 Aug 2025 |website=[[Reddit]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230621042424/https://old.reddit.com/r/ElectricUnicycle/comments/jvcs8i/kingsong_region_locking/ |archive-date=21 Jun 2023}}</ref>

While King Song's policy is intended to protect its business interests, the method of enforcement places the burden on the end consumer, who may be an uninformed party in the complexities of the global supply chain.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Enro123 |date=2020-08-17 |title=Latest Kingsong debacle of locking their EUCs - InMotion could also do the same. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ElectricUnicycle/comments/ibd413/latest_kingsong_debacle_of_locking_their_eucs/ |access-date=2025-08-20 |website=[[Reddit]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230617151124/https://old.reddit.com/r/ElectricUnicycle/comments/ibd413/latest_kingsong_debacle_of_locking_their_eucs/ |archive-date=17 Jun 2023}}</ref> Community members have argued that a more appropriate business practice would be to deny warranty or service for grey market wheels, rather than remotely disabling the device itself, a method they deem "unacceptable" and "not even legal". This practice turns a consumer's one-time purchase into a product with a built-in, manufacturer-controlled kill switch, which is a significant departure from traditional models of ownership.

===Remote Locking and Geo-Fencing===
As a policy to combat "grey market" imports, King Song implemented a region-locking mechanism that requires the official app for new wheel "activation." Wheels intended for the Chinese domestic market are remotely disabled or "bricked" if an attempt is made to connect them with the app from an international IP address. This policy has left consumers who unknowingly purchased these wheels from unofficial resellers with non-functional devices, sparking outrage within the community.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=@Vulkov |date=2020-08-05 |title=WARNING KINGSONG PRODUCTS |url=https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/19378-warning-kingsong-products/ |access-date=2025-08-20 |website=forum.electricunicycle.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004104040/https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/19378-warning-kingsong-products/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>[[File:117716528 1934204426716639 5748934329590208824 n.png|thumb|Official KingSong statement on retrospectively geo-locking wheels from their facebook page <ref>{{Cite web |last=King Song International |date=2020-04-20 |title=King Song Official Notice |url=https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19ooE3BRST/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=facebook.com}}</ref>]]<gallery>
File:Chat with KingSong representative.jpg|Screenshot of a chat detailing a victim's experience with a KingSong representative, who, on behalf of the company, accepted payment for a wheel and subsequently geo-locked the device, preventing the consumer from using it.<ref name=":1" />
File:Chat with KingSong representative2.jpg|Screenshot of a chat detailing a victim's experience with a KingSong representative, who, on behalf of the company, accepted payment for a wheel and subsequently geo-locked the device, preventing the consumer from using it.<ref name=":1" />
</gallery>

===Remote product disabling on back-end system error===
In July 2020, the electricunicycle.org the only international global hub for EUC related communication was flooded with users reporting their KingSong wheels being ''remotely locked,'' and thus don't work anymore.<ref>{{Cite web |last=null |date=2020-07-01 |title=KingSong is bricking wheels on purpose. Dont use their apps. |url=https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/18928-kingsong-is-bricking-wheels-on-purpose-dont-use-their-apps/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220523043210/https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/18928-kingsong-is-bricking-wheels-on-purpose-dont-use-their-apps/ |archive-date=2022-05-23 |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=forum.electricunicycle.org}}</ref> As admitted by their official representative and spoke person Jack Hsu.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hsu |first=Jack |title=official facebook page |url=https://www.facebook.com/frostshake/about_work_and_education |url-status=live}}</ref> The company's own official statement, the locked wheels were not due to a user error or a specific product fault, but rather an issue with their "updated backend systems." This indicates that the company's central server or software had a bug that directly impacted and disabled a physical product in the field.

==== Remote product disabling ====
The company, King Song, possesses the ability to remotely "lock" or disable the wheels of their electric unicycles. This level of control, exercised by a manufacturer over a product that has been sold and is owned by a consumer, is a critical issue. It gives the company the power to render a customer's property unusable, which raises questions about the ''trust of ownership''.
[[File:KingSong official reaction on accidentaly locked wheels.png|thumb|KingSong official reaction on accidentally locked wheels due to their backend error. <ref name=":0" />]]
<blockquote>''"Due to updated backend systems, it has caused some users wheels to be locked again. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please send me your serial number and I can assist you.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Hsu |first=Jack |date=2020-06-02 |title=KingSong is bricking wheels on purpose. Dont use their apps. |url=https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/18928-kingsong-is-bricking-wheels-on-purpose-dont-use-their-apps/#findComment-317419 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=forum.electricunicycle.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250914121702/https://forum.electricunicycle.org/topic/18928-kingsong-is-bricking-wheels-on-purpose-dont-use-their-apps/ |archive-date=14 Sep 2025}}</ref>"''</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[Forced app download]]
*[[Insta360]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Volkswagen locks horsepower behind paid subscription

2026-03-31T18:12:03Z

Reform: Link update

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Volkswagen
|StartDate=2025
|EndDate=
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=
|Product=ID.3
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Firmware Lockout, Ownership, Rent-Seeking
|Description=The ID.3 ships with a 228 bhp engine but can only utilize up to 201 bhp of power unless the user pays a one-time fee or buys a subscription.
}}
In the U.K., '''[[Volkswagen]]''' equips the '''ID.3''' with a 228bhp engine, then requires customers to pay a subscription to unlock the full performance of the vehicle they've already purchased.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Alaniz |first=Anthony |date=17 Aug 2025 |title=Volkswagen Is Locking Horsepower Behind a Paywall |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/769158/volkswagen-horsepower-subscription-service-paywall/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250830203418/https://www.motor1.com/news/769158/volkswagen-horsepower-subscription-service-paywall/ |archive-date=30 Aug 2025|access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=motor1.com}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Jervis |first=Tom |date=14 Aug 2025 |title=Forget Netflix, Volkswagen locks horsepower behind paid subscription |url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/367566/forget-netflix-volkswagen-locks-horsepower-behind-paid-subscription |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260105033944/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/367566/forget-netflix-volkswagen-locks-horsepower-behind-paid-subscription |archive-date=5 Jan 2026|access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=Auto Express}}</ref>

==Background==
Volkswagen follows the trend of modern car manufacturers: selling vehicles with the hardware capabilities to enable certain functionalities, then controlling access to said features by software-locking them behind a paywall. This marks a shift from how cars have worked since their invention, as they're no longer independent devices, requiring constant connection to the manufacturer's servers. This change isn't driven by necessity but rather represents a new business model prioritizing:

*Recurring revenue through [[Subscription service|subscription services]]
*[[Volkswagen car-location data-exposure incident|Collecting drivers’ data]] that is then sold to insurance companies

==How it works==
Every exemplar of the ID.3 model is equipped with a 228bhp engine, but customers who don’t pay extra to enable full power get their engine capped at 201bhp.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> The process works like this:

*Full power is available as a factory option
*It can be added to certain cars (even second hand ones) that weren't optioned that way originally<ref name=":1" />
*It is available as a monthly or yearly subscription (£16.50 per month or £165 per year)<ref name=":0" />
*It can be bought outright for a one time charge of £649<ref name=":0" />

This means every customer purchases a car with a fully powered engine, but can't use it without paying an additional fee. Since the manufacturing cost is already included in the vehicle price, customers essentially pay twice for the same engine.

==See also==

*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Volkswagen]]
[[Category:Volkswagen ID.3]]
[[Category:Service Siphoning]]

Used market restrictions

2026-03-31T18:08:55Z

Reform: Link update

#REDIRECT [[Activation]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T18:07:46Z

Reform: Fix

{{Incomplete}}

As a softer version to [[activation]], and related to [[features on demand]], '''software-gating''' is a method to control access to ''features'' in consumer electronic hardware, but are not inherently anti-consumer as they provide useful for security features.

This definition does not include closed-source, such as [[wikipedia:Proprietary_software|proprietary software]] or [[wikipedia:Proprietary_protocol|proprietary protocols]], as these can still provide the consumer with fully featured access without needing an account, app, or activation.

==Anti-consumer examples==
===Forced account for data lock-in===
[[Forced account|Requiring an account]] in order to be used, such as with some Google Pixels and specific Android devices, and iPhones needing an Apple account create an easy entry-point for [[data lock-in]], making it harder to switch vendors.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Forced app download===
''Apps'' are a popular method for manufacturers to marketed features behind software locks. Examples of this are:

*Sony headphones requiring app to tweak its EQ

*HVAC app activation of furnace control boards.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

===Activation & licensing===
When features are locked behind an activation process, it will require server connectivity. Some implications of this include:

*Cloud services that are essential to keep the features working can be put offline

*The digital services can change in quality or become more privacy invasive over time

==See also==

*[[Digital rights management]]
*[[Walled garden]]
*[[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software-gating

2026-03-31T18:07:19Z

Reform: Renamed the software lock article essentially to make it clearer that it is different from activation and DRM because it is about putting marketed features for hardware behind software which isn't provided in the product itself, but needs to be installed or signed up for by the user

{{Incomplete}}

As a softer version to [[activation]], and related to [[features on demand]], '''software-gating''' is a method to control access to ''features'' in consumer electronic hardware, but are not inherently anti-consumer as they provide useful for security features.

This definition does not include closed-source, such as [[wikipedia:Proprietary_software|proprietary software]] or [[wikipedia:Proprietary_protocol|proprietary protocols]], as these can still provide the consumer with fully featured access without needing an account, app, or activation.

* [[Digital rights management]]

==Anti-consumer examples==
===Forced account for data lock-in===
[[Forced account|Requiring an account]] in order to be used, such as with some Google Pixels and specific Android devices, and iPhones needing an Apple account create an easy entry-point for [[data lock-in]], making it harder to switch vendors.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

=== Forced app download ===
''Apps'' are a popular method for manufacturers to marketed features behind software locks. Examples of this are:

* Sony headphones requiring app to tweak its EQ

* HVAC app activation of furnace control boards.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

=== Activation & licensing ===
When features are locked behind an activation process, it will require server connectivity. Some implications of this include:

* Cloud services that are essential to keep the features working can be put offline

* The digital services can change in quality or become more privacy invasive over time

== See also ==

* [[Digital rights management]]
* [[Walled garden]]
* [[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Software locks

2026-03-31T18:02:07Z

Reform: Cleanup for clarity and defining it as something different than other theme articles in order to not have 3 times the same thing

{{StubNotice}}

As a softer version to [[activation]], and related to [[features on demand]], '''software-gating''' is a method to control access to ''features'' in consumer electronic hardware, but are not inherently anti-consumer as they provide useful for security features.

This definition does not include closed-source, such as [[wikipedia:Proprietary_software|proprietary software]] or [[wikipedia:Proprietary_protocol|proprietary protocols]], as these can still provide the consumer with fully featured access without needing an account, app, or activation.

See also

* [[Digital rights management]]

==Anti-consumer examples==
===Forced account for data lock-in===
[[Forced account|Requiring an account]] in order to be used, such as with some Google Pixels and specific Android devices, and iPhones needing an Apple account create an easy entry-point for [[data lock-in]], making it harder to switch vendors.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

=== Forced app download ===
''Apps'' are a popular method for manufacturers to marketed features behind software locks. Examples of this are:

* Sony headphones requiring app to tweak its EQ

* HVAC app activation of furnace control boards.{{Citation needed|date=31 Mar 2026}}

=== Activation & licensing ===
When features are locked behind an activation process, it will require server connectivity. Some implications of this include:

* Cloud services that are essential to keep the features working can be put offline

* The digital services can change in quality or become more privacy invasive over time

== See also ==

* [[Digital rights management]]
* [[Walled garden]]
* [[Bootloader unlocking]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Software]]

Category:Service Siphoning

2026-03-31T17:04:28Z

Reform: Slightly clearer

'''Service siphoning''', as defined in this wiki, is the conversion of traditional-purchase models into service-based, or subscription models. Pages that fall under this category are examples of instances of this anti-consumer behavior. This usually applies to ''service-connected'' physical products, that converted a life-time purchase feature into a subscription. For the conversion of lifetime software licenses into subscription-based licenses, see [[:Category:License Laundering|license laundering]].

[[Category:Anti-consumer practices]]

Category:Service Siphoning

2026-03-31T16:57:48Z

Reform: Bold title mention

'''Service siphoning''', as defined in this wiki, is the conversion of traditional-purchase models into service-based, or subscription models. Pages that fall under this category are examples of instances of this anti-consumer behavior. This usually applies to cloud-connected physical products, as they often start out without needing any subscription to be used. For the conversion of lifetime software licenses into subscription-based licenses, see [[:Category:License Laundering|license laundering]].

[[Category:Anti-consumer practices]]

Category:License Laundering

2026-03-31T16:57:10Z

Reform: Definition update

'''License laundering''', as defined in this wiki, is the undermining of traditional concepts of software ownership through systematic moves to make consumers consent to [[:Category:Rights Stripping|rights-stripping]] license agreements for software they ''already bought and paid for'', and usually [[Activation|deactivates]] the software if disagreed with. Pages that fall under this category are examples of instances of this anti-consumer behavior.

[[Category:Rights Stripping]]