If you’re one of the 80 million Roku device owners, you may have encountered an unexpected block of text on your screen this month. As a Roku TV owner myself, I was among the many who were surprised by this message.

The message contained updated terms of service that restricted users from taking legal action against the company. Without agreeing to these new terms, users were effectively locked out of their devices. Frustrated by this, software engineer Isaac Phillips found a way to disconnect his Roku TV from the internet and use it without Roku’s apps.

This incident sparked conversations about the control tech companies have over the products we purchase. It serves as a reminder that despite our ownership, companies can dictate how we use our devices to prioritize their interests over ours.

In addition to this controversy, Roku also faced a security breach affecting 15,000 user accounts. While the company maintained that the breach was unrelated to the updated terms of service, it raised concerns about the vulnerability of consumer data.

Roku’s actions shed light on the lack of ownership consumers have over their tech products. With companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft controlling software updates and access to features, consumers are left with limited control over devices they purchased.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of technology ownership, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and protections available to consumers.

The Reality of Tech Ownership

Gone are the days when a TV was simply a screen. Today, tech products come with software components that are controlled by the company, limiting consumer freedom. Changes to software interfaces and discontinued support for older products demonstrate the challenges consumers face in truly owning their devices.

As mandatory arbitration clauses become standard practice, consumers are further restricted in their ability to dispute company actions. Companies like Roku enforce arbitration clauses to shield themselves from mass legal actions, highlighting the power dynamics at play in tech ownership.

Beware of Tech Companies

Despite marketing themselves as consumer-friendly, tech companies prioritize their interests over consumers’. Roku’s data collection practices and privacy policies reveal the extent to which companies leverage consumer data for profit.

As consumers, it’s essential to be aware of the trade-offs we make when purchasing tech products. By understanding the control companies exert over our devices, we can make informed decisions and protect our privacy.