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155 points everyone | 2 comments | | HN request time: 0.605s | source

My washing machine broke down. I need a replacement. I must avoid getting a "smart" one though. Are there any lists of products that arent "smart" so I can know which models are viable options to buy? Or other resources? I'm based in Ireland.
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arp242 ◴[] No.44488976[source]
Most appliances like washing machines are "smart-optional" at most, and can just be used as a regular appliance if you don't want all the "smart" stuff. There are also many without any "smart" features. It's different for TVs and such, but for household appliances all of this is not really a big deal.
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1. rincebrain ◴[] No.44490212[source]
My problem with "smart optional" devices is that even in that case, the "smart" parts can have knock-on effects.

For example, the AC unit I bought, resets any settings changes from the front panel if you power cycle it, unless you configure them in the web interface.

My new microwave with a "child safety" lock has a button combination you can use to disable the lock, but it forgets that setting on losing power, so you have to perpetually keep the sequence needed around if you ever have brownouts or blackouts.

And, of course, if you just ignore it, it might be waiting for someone to come by with the right bluetooth or 802.11 network or s/t and use any "optional features" however they like...

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2. spacemadness ◴[] No.44492220[source]
The fact that it might query a firmware update if you’re not careful to never allow it to communicate outward is enough of a risk. I don’t want my appliances querying firmware updates that might brick the unit or give engineers excuses too not get it right the first time. I’ve seen what product owners do when there are known bugs but they want to ship because the user can just update later.