Liz Chamberlain, director of sustainability for the online marketplace iFixit, expressed concern over the proliferation of devices equipped with built-in surveillance capabilities. She noted that while these technologies may provide exciting features, they also result in the presence of microphones and cameras in everyday appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators, raising significant privacy issues across the industry.
This year marks the fourth annual award ceremony, which took place on Thursday. Among the recipients was the Ultrahuman Rare Luxury Smart Ring, deemed “least repairable” by Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit. Priced at $2,200 and available in colors such as dune and desert sand, this smart ring boasts an attractive design but is hampered by a significant drawback: a battery life limited to just 500 charges. Wiens pointed out that replacing the battery is an impossible task without damaging the device beyond repair, calling the two-year lifespan for such a luxury item “a new low.”
In another category, the “Revol” crib by Bosch is touted as an AI-powered product that can monitor an infant’s vital signs, assess sleep patterns, and even rock the baby to sleep. However, Cindy Cohn, Executive Director of EFF, criticized the crib for exploiting parental anxiety and collecting excessive data through a range of surveillance tools, including a camera, microphone, and radar sensor. Parents expect safety rather than surveillance, Cohn emphasized. Bosch responded by stating that all data is encrypted and that caregivers can choose whether to transmit data, highlighting an offline mode option.
Another product that raised eyebrows was the In-Car Commerce Ecosystem from SoundHound AI, which critics labeled as “least sustainable.” Stacey Higginbotham of Consumer Reports condemned the feature for promoting wasteful consumption of take-out food and increasing energy use. The system allows users to order food directly through the car’s infotainment system, though Soundhound AI claimed that the launch marks a significant progression in automotive commerce.
Concern also loomed over the security of TP-Link’s Archer BE900 router, recognized as “least secure” in the competition. Paul Roberts, founder of The Security Ledger, pointed out that the brand is subject to Chinese laws that require it to report security flaws to the government prior to alerting the public, posing potential national security risks. However, TP-Link contested this assertion, insisting that they operate as a U.S.-based company and have control over their supply chains, aiming to dispel fears of widespread vulnerabilities.
The “who asked for this?” category highlighted Samsung’s Bespoke AI Washing Machine, criticized by Nathan Proctor of U.S. PIRG. Proctor described the appliance as equipped with unnecessary features, like phone call capabilities, which only complicate repairs and inflate costs for consumers. Samsung’s vice chairman defended the machine, claiming pride in the innovative technology being brought to homes, asserting a commitment to personalizing consumer experiences through AI.
As for the overall worst product, the LG “AI Home Inside 2.0 Refrigerator with ThinkQ” took the lead. Gay Gordon-Byrne, executive director of The Repair Association, stated that flashy features mean higher energy consumption and costly repairs, detracting from the fridge’s practical usability. LG countered by stating that while new technology may face skepticism, consumers will ultimately appreciate the innovative enhancements and convenience provided by their product.
