BMW feature lockout scandal: Difference between revisions
Added article link to see also. |
This isn’t the CAT anymore! |
||
Line 26: | Line 26: | ||
}}</ref>This is a shift from traditional ownership models where the consumer has full access to the functionality of purchased goods. | }}</ref>This is a shift from traditional ownership models where the consumer has full access to the functionality of purchased goods. | ||
This business model alters the definition of "purchase" and "own," as described in the Consumer | This business model alters the definition of "purchase" and "own," as described in the Consumer Rights Wiki mission statement. The consumer does not have complete control over the purchased item, as the manufacturer can effectively disable or restrict functionality through software. This raises questions about what it means to own a product, if the manufacturer retains control over key features. | ||
This practice is not an isolated incident. BMW has previously implemented similar business practices such as charging a subscription fee for access to heated seats, despite the hardware being installed in the vehicle.<ref name=":1"> | This practice is not an isolated incident. BMW has previously implemented similar business practices such as charging a subscription fee for access to heated seats, despite the hardware being installed in the vehicle.<ref name=":1"> |