Software-gating
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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 proprietary software or 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
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 (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 (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