Online activation
Online activation, also known as cloud-based activation, is the requirement to connect to the Internet before activating a product or software that the end user paid for. Examples include:
- Some operating systems such as iOS and Windows 11 require registering an account with the device vendor to be set up before first use.[1]
- Xiaomi requires registering an account to be able to unlock the bootloader.[2]
- Some DJI drones and Insta360 cameras require to be linked to a smartphone before first use.[3][4]
Disadvantages
Given that online services shut down all the time, activation services can be lost, leaving the user with an unuseable product.[5]
Some places in the world have limited Internet access. This can cause difficulties when activating.
Providers can limit activations or arbitrarily revoke access. For example, Xiaomi only allows one bootloader unlock per person per 30 days and four phones per year, in addition to a week-long delay after purchase.[2][4]
References
- ↑ FYI: Windows 11 Home Will Require a Microsoft Account For Initial Setup - Benj Edwards
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Complete Guide to Unlocking the Bootloader: Announcement, Troubleshoot and Tips | Xiaomi Community
- ↑ Activating Your Drone - DJI support
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Insta360 camera locks you out "to protect your consumer rights" - corporate gaslighting - Louis Rossmann
- ↑ You Can't Control Your Data in the Cloud - Karl Voit