Bose Anti-Planned Obsolescence Strategy
Bose Will Open Source Software for Older Speakers
Bose announced it will release teh source code for its soundtouch software next month, a move aimed at extending the life of its older speakers and preventing planned obsolescence. This impacts the SoundTouch line, popular in the mid-2010s.
As more household devices connect to the internet, their lifespan increasingly depends on continued software support from manufacturers. Bose, known for headphones, earbuds, and connected speakers, is addressing this issue directly.
The decision to open source the software means users might potentially be able to continue using and even modifying the software for their SoundTouch devices even after Bose stops providing official updates. This is a important step toward giving consumers more control over the products they own.
Here’s what this means for SoundTouch owners:
- Continued Functionality: Users can perhaps maintain core functionality of their SoundTouch systems.
- Community Support: The open-source nature could foster a community of developers and enthusiasts who contribute to ongoing support.
- Extended Lifespan: Devices won’t become unusable simply because Bose ends official software updates.
Bose and other manufacturers face growing pressure to address concerns about the lifespan of connected devices. Opening source software is one way to respond to those concerns.
More facts is available on the Bose website.