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submitted 2 weeks ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary

  1. The speaker discusses receiving a Samsung Gear S3 watch as a gift but facing compatibility issues with newer Samsung phones released after 2014.
  2. Samsung has stopped supporting the Gear S3 with newer phones due to software quality concerns, causing frustration among users.
  3. To make the watch work with newer phones, users have to download older versions of applications from random APK websites and go through a complicated setup process.
  4. The speaker highlights the importance of personal experiences in driving awareness and advocacy, urging people to care about issues like the right to repair.
  5. Users are expressing dissatisfaction and questioning Samsung's decision to render their previously functional devices obsolete.
  6. The speaker concludes the video by saying that's it for today and hopes the viewers have learned something.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. The case in Singapore highlights the growing concern over the privacy implications of infotainment systems in cars. Law enforcement agencies tapping into these systems raises questions about potential misuse of personal data.
  2. The ruling in the US that allows automakers to collect and store text messages without consent is a concerning precedent. It shows that current privacy laws may not adequately protect individuals from data exploitation.
  3. The collection and sale of driving data by automakers in the US without consent is an invasion of privacy. It raises concerns about who has access to this data and how it could potentially be used.
  4. Strengthening consumer privacy laws is crucial to ensure that individuals have control over their personal data and are protected from its misuse. Stricter regulations are needed to prevent unauthorized access and use of private information.
  5. Balancing the need for law enforcement with individual privacy rights is a complex issue. It requires finding a middle ground that allows for effective crime prevention while respecting individuals’ privacy and ensuring data protection.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. Spotify’s decision to discontinue Car Thing without offering any alternative solutions or support raises questions about their commitment to customer satisfaction. Customers who invested in the device and paid $90 are left without a functioning product.
  2. Car Thing was marketed as a way to enhance the in-car music streaming experience, but Spotify’s decision to discontinue it shows a lack of understanding of their customers’ needs and preferences.
  3. Spotify’s suggestion to dispose of Car Thing as e-waste instead of offering open-source solutions or repurposing options further highlights their disregard for the environment and their customers’ investment.
  4. This decision may lead to a decline in customer trust and loyalty towards Spotify. The lack of transparency and support for Car Thing reflects poorly on the company’s reputation and may result in customer churn.
  5. Customers who are dissatisfied with Spotify’s handling of Car Thing discontinuation can take action by filing chargebacks on their service payments. This can impact Spotify’s ability to process credit card payments and send a strong message to the company.
  6. The video also highlights the nostalgia for older music formats and the appreciation for physical media, suggesting that streaming services like Spotify may not always provide the same quality and ownership experience.
  7. Returning Car Thing as e-waste to Spotify’s corporate headquarters, as suggested by the video, can serve as a symbolic act of protest against the company’s decision and their lack of support for their own product.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. Consumer electronics manufacturers like Apple and Samsung are creating fake repair programs to avoid passing right to repair legislation.
  2. Criticism of Apple's repair program for being a PR stunt and requiring access to customer data.
  3. Highlighting Samsung's self-repair program that sells parts as assemblies, making repair difficult and costly.
  4. Frustration expressed at the requirement to interrogate customers and collect personal data under these repair programs.
  5. Emphasis on the importance of consumer privacy and transparency in the repair process, mentioning the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
  6. Criticism of companies trying to avoid warranties based on unrelated issues and collecting customer data for advertising purposes.
  7. Strong advice against supporting CTIA and attending their events, as they lobby against the rights of repair shop owners and consumers.
  8. Promotion of their nonprofit repair preservation group, Repair We, which provides detailed repair guides for free.
  9. Emphasizing the importance of advocating for the best interests of repair shop owners and consumers, contrasting their approach with that of CTIA prioritizing financial gain over the repair industry.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. The speaker discusses the issue of Cloud Home Smart Home Wi-Fi connected devices that require internet connection to function, raising concerns about privacy and security.
  2. Examples mentioned include a pricey baby monitor now requiring a subscription to use and a tankless water heater connecting to the internet for remote control, posing security risks like unauthorized access.
  3. The speaker emphasizes the unnecessary reliance on manufacturer servers for controlling household devices and the potential security vulnerabilities that come with it.
  4. They express frustration with the trend of connecting all home devices to the internet, arguing against the need for devices like water heaters and thermostats to be connected due to security risks and potential malicious actions.
  5. Recommendations include using open-source software like Home Assistant to control devices directly without relying on manufacturer servers.
  6. Emphasis is placed on pushing back against the culture of giving manufacturers control over hardware, software, and data.
  7. Warning against the potential risks of having all home devices connected to the internet, such as the possibility of someone sabotaging or manipulating them remotely.
  8. Highlighting the lack of awareness among people about security risks associated with vehicle systems, particularly General Motors vehicles, being used to collect and sell data to insurance companies.
  9. Stressing the importance of consumers being informed about such practices to push back against them and prevent them from becoming the norm.
  10. Additionally, the speaker showcases a watch received as a gift that charges itself through arm movement, expressing appreciation for the thoughtful gesture.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. The speaker recalls receiving their first computer, a 286, from their mother's cousin's husband.
  2. They highlight unique features of the 286, such as storing files on the actual computer rather than a manufacturer's server.
  3. Concerns about data privacy and security, particularly in relation to Apple and Google's handling of user data, are discussed.
  4. The speaker criticizes manufacturers for discouraging independent repair shops and emphasizes the importance of consumer rights to repair their own devices.
  5. Frustration with double standards and fear-mongering tactics used by tech companies in lobbying against right to repair legislation is expressed.
  6. The importance of data privacy and security is discussed, emphasizing the risks of storing personal data on external servers controlled by companies like Apple and Google.
  7. Advocacy for individuals to take control of their electronic devices and data, suggesting that relying on external servers exposes users to potential mistakes and vulnerabilities.
  8. The speaker praises the decision to invest in developing secure photo software and encourages a shift towards self-hosting data to regain control over personal information.
  9. Criticism is directed towards manufacturers for compromising consumer rights and privacy, citing instances where authorized subcontractors accessed and shared sensitive customer data.
  10. The importance of accountability and the ability to apologize is emphasized, with Apple being criticized for not taking responsibility or acknowledging issues.
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary:

  1. Android ecosystem lacks good options for browsing through photos
  2. Options available are either low-end phones with micro SD card slot and poor camera or high-end phones with good camera but no micro SD card slot
  3. Some manufacturers offer a terabyte of storage, but at a high price
  4. Lack of micro SD card slot is done to sell cloud services and upsell on more storage
  5. Recommends self-hosted solution... for fast loading and rendering of photos with features like artificial intelligence to classify images and videos
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submitted 1 month ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary

  1. Louis Rossmann discusses an article from The Guardian about ownership of movies and TV shows in the age of streaming services.
  2. The article addresses the intricacies of ownership in technically savvy fields that normal users may not be aware of.
  3. Purchasers of media are often treated worse than pirates, and may be viewed as second-class citizens or criminals.
  4. Companies may take away perpetual licenses and upcharge for 4K content.
  5. Netflix only allows viewing on smart TVs, which may spy on users.
  6. Sony and Amazon use revocable licenses and restrict access to purchased content.
  7. Vicky Russell spent $2,500 on media but was told she didn't actually own it and needed to purchase new hardware to access it.
  8. Terms of service state that purchased or rented content is only accessible through the service and may be lost if the account is terminated or suspended.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

A customer RMA'd their ROG Ally handheld console for a faulty joystick replacement - only to have Asus refuse warranty repair due to a tiny scratch on the top of the device.

Asus then invoiced the customer $200 to carry out the joystick repair outside of warranty, or have the handheld console returned to them in a disassembled state.

Pretty low from Asus in my opinion 🤦‍♂️ can't say I'm a fan of supporting a company who treats their customers like this.

Louis' video is related to other coverage on this by the Gamers Nexus channel, which covers this in much more detail.

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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. Companies intentionally make repairable products unfixable by withholding proprietary parts, affecting various industries.
  2. Profit-driven motives lead manufacturers to prioritize disposable models, disregarding consumer rights of ownership.
  3. The issue of unrepairable products extends beyond specific brands, impacting consumers across the board.
  4. Lack of access to essential parts hinders independent repair technicians and limits consumer choices.
  5. Even high-priced products like televisions can have privacy concerns, regardless of brand or cost.
  6. Recognizing and addressing the trend of unrepairable products is crucial to protect consumer rights.
  7. Blackberry the cat provides unexpected entertainment during the video.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. Changes in product terms after purchase create frustration and a sense of unfairness among consumers.
  2. Sony’s requirement of a PlayStation Network account for the Hell Reavers game adds inconvenience and raises concerns about data security.
  3. Refund policies that deny requests based on playtime limits contradict the ability of companies to change terms after the sale.
  4. Sony’s history of security breaches and poor customer support erodes trust and adds to customer frustrations.
  5. Exclusion of certain countries in account registration limits access to games for some players.
  6. Gamers seek alternatives from companies/studios that don’t require additional accounts or impose restrictive terms.
  7. There are numerous enjoyable games available that do not require constant updates or internet connections.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Summary

  1. Consent is a fundamental principle that modern companies should uphold. The script highlights numerous instances where companies have violated user consent, raising concerns about their understanding of this concept.
  2. Accusing others of what they themselves are guilty of is a manipulative tactic employed by some companies. The script exposes the hypocrisy of major automakers who accused independent mechanics of enabling stalking while engaging in data stalking themselves.
  3. The use of charged rhetoric like “rapist mentality” aims to draw attention to the alarming actions of these companies and create awareness. The script argues that stronger language may be necessary to bring about change and recognition of the issues at hand.
  4. The script emphasizes the need for individuals to hold themselves to higher standards when it comes to valuing consent. It encourages people to be more aware of their own actions and interactions, setting an example that surpasses the behavior of these companies.
  5. The script highlights the importance of pushing back against the erosion of consumer rights and the need for people to become engaged and advocate for change. It calls for recognition of the regressive steps being taken in terms of user rights and the necessity to reverse this trend.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Article discussed in video:

Amazon Prime ads help tech giant drive profits [Mitchell Labiak | Apr 30 2024 | BBC] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9ez72kn1rlo

Summary

  1. Amazon’s decision to insert ads into paid content did not result in a loss of subscribers but rather led to a 24% increase in revenue in the first three months of this year. This indicates that many customers are accepting or even embracing the inclusion of ads.
  2. The increasing pervasiveness of ads in every aspect of life, from streaming services to banks and even HDMI devices, calls for a mass boycott of advertising. Only by collectively rejecting ads can individuals combat their intrusion into paid content and personal data.
  3. Protecting oneself from unwanted advertisements can be achieved through various methods, such as using ad blockers, VPNs, or routers with ad-blocking features. These tools help individuals maintain control over their content consumption and avoid unwanted ads.
  4. The increase in revenue from ads may lead to a future where consumers have less ownership and control over the content they purchase. Advertisements may become an integral part of paid content, eroding the original purpose of paying for an ad-free experience.
  5. Taking a stand against intrusive advertising is crucial to protect personal data privacy and assert individual sovereignty over possessions. By refusing to tolerate ads and actively seeking ways to block them, individuals can send a message that they value their privacy and control over their content consumption.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary

  1. YouTube’s Legal Team sent a letter regarding a developed application
  2. The video creator expresses frustration with YouTube’s enforcement of rules and lack of transparency
  3. The video creator proposes solutions to the problems faced by content creators on the platform
  4. The video creator discusses the issue of paying for premium services and receiving a subpar experience
  5. The video creator addresses the request to delete customer data and clarifies their data storage practices
  6. The video creator asserts their intention to continue offering the application and their willingness to engage legally if necessary

Summary

  1. The video creator highlights the inconsistent enforcement of rules on YouTube, which leads to content creators being banned without clear guidelines.
  2. The video creator emphasizes the importance of addressing the problems faced by content creators on the platform and proposes solutions to improve the user experience.
  3. The video creator criticizes the concept of paying for premium services while receiving a lower quality experience and explores examples from various industries.
  4. The video creator clarifies their data storage practices, ensuring that customer data is not stored, and encourages users to support content creators through donations.
  5. The video creator asserts their determination to continue offering the application and mentions the possibility of legal action if necessary, highlighting their seriousness and commitment.

Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - Intro
  • 00:22 - Youtube Legal Team's 2nd letter
  • 01:39 - FUTO's response to Youtube Legal Team's 2nd letter
  • 02:40 - FUTO's response to Youtube Legal Team's 1st letter
  • 03:59 - The problems we're trying to solve
  • 04:08 - Problem #1 - random bans
  • 05:46 - Problem #2 - broken comment system
  • 06:26 - Problem #3 - worse treatment when paying
  • 09:39 - Problem #4 - "storing customer data"
  • 10:10 - The difference between this & others
  • 10:25 - This is NOT 4 kids in a college dorm room
  • 10:42 - My promise
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary

  1. US carriers have been selling customers’ location data without consent, violating privacy laws.
  2. The FCC fined major carriers, but the fines were insignificant compared to their net income.
  3. Customers will bear the cost as carriers increase prices to offset the fines.
  4. Limited competition in the US market prevents customers from easily switching carriers.
  5. The FCC’s weak penalties send a message that carriers can continue exploiting customer data.

Summary

  1. The FCC’s fines on US carriers for selling customer location data were woefully inadequate, with penalties amounting to less than 1% of the carriers’ net income. This undermines the deterrent effect of fines and fails to hold carriers accountable.
  2. Limited competition in the US market exacerbates the issue, as customers have few alternatives to choose from. This lack of choice enables carriers to pass on fines to customers through increased prices, leaving consumers with no real recourse.
  3. Carriers’ argument that the sharing of location data was not clearly regulated under customer proprietary network information (CPNI) rules is disingenuous. It is the equivalent of claiming ignorance when violating someone’s privacy, and it highlights the need for clearer regulations in this area.
  4. The lack of significant penalties and the weak response from the FCC sends a message to carriers that they can continue to exploit customer data without facing severe consequences. This perpetuates a cycle of disregard for privacy and consumer rights.
  5. Customers deserve stronger protections and meaningful penalties for privacy violations. The current system allows carriers to profit from the sale of customer data, while customers bear the financial burden and loss of privacy. Regulatory bodies need to take more decisive action to safeguard consumer interests.
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submitted 2 months ago* (last edited 2 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Edit:

  • fixed error on date, 26 not 28, wording

Short Summary

  1. The speaker discusses their frustration with the FTC and their support for the right to repair movement.
  2. They share a personal story about hiring an employee with a non-compete agreement and their dislike for such agreements.
  3. Emphasizing the importance of knowing what you're getting into in personal and business relationships, using the example of hiring based on recommendations rather than random hires.
  4. Highlighting the benefits of offering better pay and working conditions to retain employees.
  5. The speaker believes that non-compete agreements are detrimental to both employees and employers in a capitalist system.
  6. They argue that non-competes limit competition and incentivize employers to mistreat employees.
  7. The speaker supports the idea of not having non-compete agreements to encourage businesses to improve their practices and treat employees better.
  8. They believe this leads to employees receiving better pay and working in environments where they are valued.
  9. The speaker also shares personal experiences of hiring employees who were mistreated in previous jobs and significantly increasing their salaries.
  10. Overall, they advocate for laws that enhance overall freedom and prevent the restriction of individuals' opportunities.
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submitted 2 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

Short Summary

  1. The video discusses the importance of freedom in repairing items and owning what you've purchased.
  2. There is disappointment expressed in the lack of autonomy for users of a particular software called BWE Software, which reportedly monitors user activity and bans users without reason.
  3. Examples of complaints from users who have been banned for using competitor software are shared.
  4. Caution is advised against spending money on software that may not be worth it.
  5. The speaker shares their experience of being wrongly accused of associating with mod games by the owner of a software company.
  6. The speaker emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior over strict legal actions and criticizes surveillance tactics used by some software companies.
  7. Alternative solutions for software control, such as selling licenses or offering automatic refunds for revoked access, are suggested.
  8. The importance of not alienating users and the need to weed out tyrannical behavior within the industry is highlighted.
  9. Commitment to making any developed software available for free without restrictions is expressed.
  10. Viewers are encouraged to engage in the discussion and provided with links for further information on the topic.
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Louis Rossmann

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Louis Rossmann Community on Lemmy.world: For fans/supporters of Louis Rossmann and his work

About Louis Rossmann

Louis Rossmann is a repair shop owner and a vocal supporter of the Right To Repair movement. He runs a YouTube channel with a variety of content - from board repair videos, to news and updates in the technology space.

His insightful and reasonable opinions on technology and product ownership tend to attract a lot of attention.

Community Guidelines

  1. Be nice
  2. Respect others' perspectives
  3. No advertising
  4. Follow the rules of the instance we're hosted on: https://mastodon.world/about

Interested in being a moderator for this community? Positions are currently open.

founded 1 year ago
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