Can companies remotely disable the “smart” layer of products that still work? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 31, 2026 · 5 MIN

Can companies remotely disable the “smart” layer of products that still work?

from Newstalk Weekend

When tech companies shut down cloud support, perfectly functional hardware can lose core features overnight, turning expensive tech into e-waste and leaving customers carrying all the risk in an ecosystem designed around corporate, not consumer, timelines. Joining Emmet Oliver to discuss is Irish Times Business and Technology Journalist, Ciara O'Brien.

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Can companies remotely disable the “smart” layer of products that still work?

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This episode is 5 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 31, 2026.

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When tech companies shut down cloud support, perfectly functional hardware can lose core features overnight, turning expensive tech into e-waste and leaving customers carrying all the risk in an ecosystem designed around corporate, not consumer,...

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