The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned that smart device creators who do not communicate how long they will provide software updates for their gadgets could be violating the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act. The FTC released a statement after studying 184 smart gadgets covering 64 product categories.
Out of 184 devices, 163 did not disclose the support duration or end date for the connected device. The examination included soundbars, video doorbells, smartphones, and other smart home appliances.
The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act requires written warranties to be available on products that cost more than $15 before sale. The warranty should also clearly disclose details of the product and its components. The government agency warned that the lack of information on software support for products with warranties could go against the FTC Act.
Along with a lack of commitment towards software support for a specific period, the information on some gadgets lacked clarity. According to the report published by FTC, some manufacturers had available software support dates, but they were not available on the related product webpage. The report said, “Some used ambiguous language that only implies the level of support provided, including phrases like, ‘lifetime technical support,’ ‘as long as your device is fully operational,’ and ‘continuous software updates,’ for example.”
Inconsistencies were found in some devices. One of them said that the gadget had lifetime support; however, the manufacturer’s support site stated that security updates for the device stopped in 2021. Google’s AI Overviews have been providing misinformation on the devices. Search results and findings stated that software support and updates will last for three to six months, while the duration only indicated the device’s battery life.
Omissions or misrepresentations regarding software support details that mislead shoppers could also be deemed illegal. “Consumers stand to lose a lot of money if their smart products stop delivering the features they want,” said Samuel Levine, the Director of the FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection.
Law enforcement and policymakers were suggested to investigate whether software support information is being properly disclosed by vendors. The FTC’s warning might indicate that vendors will be held accountable in the near future.
In the News: Telegram Premium scam targets users with fake gift offers
