I remember trying to buy a TV that does not have "smart" functionality a few years ago. It was a chore. Today it seems impossible.
And not just TVs: ovens; refrigerators; dishwashers — all have "smart" options. In fact, it seems that more and more the available non-smart models are only the simpler ones, less performant in ways that are not related to any smart functionality missing.
My non-smart TV was available only with lower resolutions than "smart" models of the same brand.
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This really annoys me. I am too well aware of security implications of smart devices.
I do not want to have to manage regular software updates for whatever number of appliances I have at home, or risk somebody using them in a botnet (or worse).
And no, I don't trust their "disable WiFi" menu options either. Seen this setting get enabled without my consent too many times.
I *could* put them on a special VLAN, but 99% of people can't. That's a problem, and not just for them.
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@rysiek I've luckily not had to experience this issue – our TV and white goods are all old – but when it comes, I'm thinking of buying a second Wifi Access Point, and not connecting it to the internet.
@fishidwardrobe cars already come with simcards, why not appliances soon?
Amazon Sidewalk stuff creates networks using consumer devices without their owners having control.
I've had appliances that just randomly re-enabled WiFi without my knowledge.
What makes you think your choice of not connecting it to the Internet will be respected?
Hardware switch or bust.
@rysiek Oh, a hardware switch is *much* better. I'm just saying – if it insists on the wifi password, it's getting the password to the WAP with no internet.