Editing Bambu Lab Authorization Control System (section)

==Controversy regarding firmware updates==
[[File:Bambu tos screenshot.png|alt=bambu terms stating print jobs may not function properly if update is not performed to new firmware which is highly limiting. |thumb|Bambu terms regarding printer functionality & potential for disrupted print jobs if users do not update to a new firmware that radically restricts the autonomy of the owner of the printer]]

===Potential for remote disabling of printers===
A significant concern raised by the community revolves around the wording in Bambu Lab's [[Terms of Service]] and firmware update announcements. Critics and users argue that the phrasing leaves open the possibility for the manufacturer to remotely disable printers that are not updated to the latest firmware. Specifically, Bambu Lab's Terms of Service<ref>https://bambulab.com/en-us/policies/terms</ref> states that printers '''"may block new print jobs"''' if updates are not applied, which some users interpret as a potential pathway for forced obsolescence.<ref name="firmware-update-introducing-new-authorization-control-system-2">https://blog.bambulab.com/firmware-update-introducing-new-authorization-control-system-2/</ref> While defenders of Bambu Lab point out that offline modes such as SD-card printing and LAN-only setups would remain functional, others point out that the Terms of Service do not explicitly limit this restriction to cloud-based printing. This ambiguity has led to speculation that Bambu Lab could enforce broader limitations, effectively rendering printers inoperable for users who choose not to update.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/BambuLab/comments/1i45iy2/bambu_lab_reserves_the_right_to_brick_your/</ref>

====Editing of initial announcement====
Bambu users were concerned they would not be able to utilize their printer if they did not install this update, due to the wording of the blog and the terms of service.<ref>[[:File:Bambu tos screenshot.png]]</ref> This caused confusion since users report that Bambu's blog post dated January 16th<ref>https://blog.bambulab.com/firmware-update-introducing-new-authorization-control-system-2/</ref> specifically says the following:<blockquote>
====<sup>What happens if I never upgrade to this firmware?</sup>====
<sup>You may continue using an older firmware version that does not include the new security updates; however, this means the printers may miss out on important security fixes or bug patches included in newer versions. We highly encourage updating to the latest firmware version for the best experience and enhanced security.</sup></blockquote>However, '''this was not present on the day of the announcement.''' A snapshot of their webpage from archive.is demonstrates this section did not exist on the day of the announcement, when community members voiced their concerns.<ref>https://archive.is/ejq3R</ref><ref>[[:File:2024-01-16-Firmware Update Introducing New Authorization Control System.pdf]]File:2024-01-16-Firmware Update Introducing New Authorization Control System.pdf</ref> Bambu's response to community feedback<ref>https://blog.bambulab.com/updates-and-third-party-integration-with-bambu-connect/</ref> references ''"social media posts spreading baseless allegations and untrue claims about Bambu Lab",'' including ''"Firmware updates will block your printer’s ability to print.",'' without mentioning the context for those allegations. The context for those allegations was the lack of inclusion of the ''"What happens if I never upgrade to this firmware?"'' in Bambu's initial announcement alongside their stated terms of service.

This announcement, after the edit in question, clearly states in the header - '''''Updated: January 17, 2025''' - to include additional details and FAQs where the '''What happens if I never upgrade to this firmware?''' among others was added.''

As per webpage oldest snapshot from '''archive.is''' <ref>https://archive.is/ejq3R</ref> dated 16 Jan 2025 17:31 UTC there are two references if choosing to stay on the old firmware:<blockquote>
====<sup> Important Information for End Users </sup>====
<sup>2. Old Firmware Option:
Users who decide to use an older firmware version can still use the previous or new versions of Bambu Studio and Bambu Handy without restrictions.</sup>
</blockquote>
Statement reads that user can choose to stay on the previous firmware and will not be punished for their choice by exclusion from access of first party updated software tools.<blockquote> 
====<sup> Information for OrcaSlicer users </sup>====
<sup> 1. You can continue using your X Series 3D printer with the older firmware version (which does not include Authorization Features). <br>
2. If you choose to upgrade to the firmware version with Authorization Features, you must download and install Bambu Connect (a printer control software)... </sup>
</blockquote>
Statement reads that users have the right of choice to upgrade or stay on the older firmware.

While FAQ section was added after the initial blog post publication:
*It appears to summarize unedited information available in the original article.
*Addition of the FAQ section, and as a result - editing the initial article, are clearly announced.

===Debate over "bricking" terminology===
''The debate has also "''extended to the definition of 'bricking':" Some community members assert that if a printer is unable to accept new print jobs without an update, it effectively becomes non-functional and qualifies as being "bricked." Others counter that as long as certain offline functionalities remain (such as SD-card printing) the term does not accurately apply.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/BambuLab/comments/1i45iy2/bambu_lab_reserves_the_right_to_brick_your/m7sezlg/</ref>

===Privacy policy issues===
Bambu Lab's privacy policy, under "Personal Data that we collect," explicitly states: "3D Model in each client ('Printing Files') and other information related to the print job we may store, including start times, finish times, filament consumption and other relevant information."<ref>https://bambulab.com/en-us/policies/privacy</ref> This contradicts their claim that they do not monitor 3D prints. Additionally, the privacy policy webpage is notably excluded from the Wayback Machine, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in their data practices.<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20250000000000*/https://bambulab.com/en-us/policies/privacy</ref>

===Community strategies to deal with risks===
Users have discussed strategies to avoid possible disruptions, including:
*Operating printers exclusively in offline modes.
*Utilizing LAN connections or VPN setups: this requires an access key from the printer (previously, you could use your cloud credentials over LAN).
*Exploring alternative firmware or third-party scripts to restore full functionality.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/BambuLab/comments/1i45iy2/bambu_lab_reserves_the_right_to_brick_your/m7t8i7r/</ref>