As a reminder, just because the appliance you bought offers an internet connection, it most likely doesn't need it for core functionality. Your smart fridge can't get an update if it can't talk to Samsung.
this post was submitted on 18 Sep 2025
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just because the appliance you bought offers an internet connection, it most likely doesn't need it for core functionality.
...until it does.
It's not unprecedented for manufacturers to lock hardware capabilities behind software controlled paywalls.
When I was shopping for stoves, there were a couple of models with "features" that were not available unless you connected to the internet and used their app on your phone.
We chose a model that didn't have any networking at all.
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One of my favorite recent memories is someone tapping into the YouTube app on a powered display Saumsung fridge in Home Depot and blasting Caramelldansen. Happened about a year ago. It was surprisingly loud!