Belkin shows tech firms getting too comfortable with bricking customers’ stuff

Belkin Discontinues Support for Many Wemo Devices, Leaving Customers Without Key Features
Photo: Ars Technica

Belkin Discontinues Support for Many Wemo Devices, Leaving Customers Without Key Features

Belkin has announced that it will stop supporting most of its Wemo devices by January 31, 2026, affecting 27 products including the Wemo Smart Light Switch 3-Way (WLS0403). This move will disable core functionalities such as cloud connectivity, remote access, and voice assistant integration. Customers will no longer be able to use the Wemo app for controlling these devices. While the company offers refunds for affected devices under warranty, many will be left without the ability to control their smart devices unless they are compatible with Apple HomeKit. This marks the latest instance of tech companies abandoning old products, a growing trend in the Internet of Things (IoT) market that has led to concerns over e-waste. Critics argue that companies like Belkin are prioritizing profit over customer support, leaving consumers to bear the consequences. Activists are calling for regulations that force companies to disclose the lifespan of support for connected devices. Belkin’s decision follows a broader pattern of tech companies pulling support for older devices, making them obsolete long before their expected lifespan. The lack of accountability raises serious concerns about the future of IoT products and consumer rights.

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