The hottest Repair Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 05 Oct 22
  1. The WIRED GREEN conference highlighted the importance of the right-to-repair movement and the significance of fixing products to reduce waste.
  2. New York's Digital Fair Repair Act aims to make it easier for consumers to repair electronics and may pave the way for similar legislation in other states.
  3. Organizations like Repair Cafes are promoting a more sustainable, circular economy by emphasizing repair and reuse over recycling.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 30 Sep 22
  1. FixFest 2022 is a key annual event in Brussels focused on repair, technology, and sustainability.
  2. The event includes talks on promoting a culture of repair, lobbying for right to repair laws, and addressing cybersecurity in the repair industry.
  3. Attendees can participate in a mix of in-person and online events covering various repair-related topics and initiatives.
The Technically Challenged Newsletter 4 HN points 07 Oct 23
  1. Initial troubleshooting steps included charging the e-reader, performing soft and full resets, and checking the charging port and battery.
  2. Hardware debugging involved attempting to fix the charging port and then replacing the battery when the issue persisted.
  3. The repair process required creative solutions like using a different battery and making adjustments to ensure the e-reader was functional.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 02 Sep 22
  1. The EU is moving towards mandating smartphones to be supported for at least five years, benefitting customers worldwide with access to key components for repair.
  2. Research suggests that automakers opposing right-to-repair laws may be futile, as a consumer sentiment survey indicates strong support for such legislation among voters.
  3. The right-to-repair movement is gaining momentum globally, driven by concerns over manufacturer control of software in devices like tractors, leading to potential environmental and consumer rights impacts.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 31 Aug 22
  1. Corporations like Amazon and Apple often limit repair options for consumers to maintain control over products, using tactics like market consolidation and locked ecosystems.
  2. Open-source technology in farm equipment offers a repairable, environmentally friendly alternative, beneficial for small farms adapting to climate change.
  3. The Auto Care Association supports initiatives like the Maine Right to Repair Referendum, emphasizing the importance of consumer choice in vehicle maintenance and repair.
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Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 26 Aug 22
  1. Apple's self-repair expansion for Macbooks has faced criticism for making repairs seem less accessible and more complicated.
  2. The 'Right to Repair' movement is gaining traction, but manufacturers still have control over device repairs, particularly in the realm of IoT products.
  3. Appliance giant Beko is offering a 10-year parts warranty to promote repair over repurchasing, aligning with the EU's Right to Repair laws.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 11 Jul 22
  1. The FTC penalizes companies like Weber for limiting consumer rights, showing a strong stance on right to repair and consumer protection.
  2. Upgrading smartphones has a significant environmental impact due to the high carbon emissions produced during manufacturing and disposal.
  3. Investments in circular economy projects, such as the Ministry of Economy's announcement of 200,000 Euro for such projects, aim to improve sustainability in industry by reusing resources effectively.
Fight to Repair 39 implied HN points 14 Sep 21
  1. Repair culture for old devices like radios involves accessible resources and manuals for DIY repairs, fostering sustainability and useful life extension.
  2. Modern electronics like FitBits often lack repair options, leading to replacement rather than fixing and contributing to e-waste accumulation.
  3. A right to repair law could empower consumers with access to schematics and parts to preserve electronics, but also necessitates a shift in manufacturer practices towards designing repairable products.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 28 Jun 22
  1. FTC is taking action against companies like Harley-Davidson and Westinghouse for limiting customers' right to repair, which restricts choices and can cost consumers more money
  2. Exploring concepts like the circular economy vs. degrowth can lead to business innovations that prioritize sustainability and affordability by reusing and recycling materials
  3. Congress is pushing for investigations into the automotive industry's right to repair, aiming to protect consumers' ability to repair their own products and improve competitive repair markets
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 21 Jun 22
  1. Tracking devices reveal that many small appliances returned for repair end up in landfills due to lack of repair advice and available spare parts.
  2. Facebook is revealed to be the sole funder of American Edge Project, an anti-regulatory group fighting against antitrust efforts, with documents showing a $4 million donation.
  3. The Right to Repair movement is gaining traction with proposed bills at state and national levels, aiming to empower consumers, save costs, and reduce e-waste by allowing for repairs and extending the lifespan of electronics.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 31 May 22
  1. There is pushback on Apple's self service repair program due to the massive repair kit shipped to customers, with critics calling it excessive and expensive.
  2. Deere tractor owners are resorting to hacking due to restrictions on repairs and modifications set by the company, sparking the need for open source projects like Open Source Ecology & Farm Hack.
  3. Nike's new sneaker design embraces the circular economy by creating a disassemblable product to improve recycling rates, offering a more sustainable approach to footwear.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 19 Apr 22
  1. Apple's shift to subscription hardware could impact right to repair laws, changing technology accessibility and future hardware ownership.
  2. India aims to become the repair capital of the world, utilizing its engineering talent to extend product life and promote sustainability.
  3. Big tech companies like Samsung, Google, and Apple are making strides in allowing consumers and repair shops to access official parts for easier device repairs, supporting the right to repair movement.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 27 Mar 22
  1. 7 in 10 voters support the proposed right to repair law in the US, showing a strong public interest in protecting the ability to repair electronic devices.
  2. The average cost of auto repair in February hit a record high of $501, indicating increasing expenses for vehicle maintenance and repair.
  3. John Deere announced improved access to repair manuals under pressure, highlighting the impact of advocacy efforts on companies' repair policies.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 28 Feb 22
  1. Some John Deere dealerships consolidating, leaving farmers with limited repair options. Right to Repair reforms could offer more choices for farmers.
  2. Apple now offers Face ID repair without replacing whole iPhone, reducing both hassle for technicians and carbon footprint.
  3. Farmers in multiple states advocating for Right to Repair laws to lower repair costs, increase repair options, and maintain self-reliance.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 16 Feb 22
  1. The right-to-repair movement is gaining momentum globally, empowering individuals to fix their own devices and reduce waste.
  2. Manufacturers are facing challenges in providing access to spare parts, repair information, and tools, hindering independent repair shops and DIY fixers.
  3. An increasing number of individuals and organizations are advocating for the right to repair, pushing for legislative changes to support repairability and sustainability.
Fight to Repair 19 implied HN points 30 Dec 20
  1. Repair journalism is not adequately covering the right to repair, though the topic deserves more attention and focus.
  2. The battle for a digital right to repair encompasses issues beyond just fixing broken devices, touching on areas like environmental sustainability, market consolidation, and digital rights.
  3. The Fight to Repair Weekly newsletter aims to delve deeper into the significant, overarching themes related to the right to repair, bridging the gap in media coverage and exploring the broader implications of repair rights.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 10 Aug 22
  1. The throw-away economy is harmful to the environment and resource allocation, emphasizing the need to shift towards a circular economy of reuse, repair, and recycle.
  2. In a subscription-based world, it's crucial to maintain the 'right to own' to prevent a future where ownership and property rights are eroded by overwhelming subscriptions.
  3. The rise of second life markets for refurbished goods and the need for legislation to compel manufacturers to cooperate more with repairers highlights the importance of extending the lifespan of products.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 06 Aug 22
  1. Massachusetts is close to a decision on automotive right to repair laws which could impact how vehicles with telematics are standardized and opened up for repair.
  2. Nintendo fans are facing issues with DMCA takedowns, affecting areas like modding and use of soundtracks, bringing attention to copyright restrictions in the gaming industry.
  3. Local initiatives like the Repair Economy Washington's furniture refurbishment project highlight community efforts to support refugees and reduce waste through repair events.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 04 Aug 22
  1. Electronics are designed with hidden 'death dates' and often lack longevity, urging users to demand longer-lasting products.
  2. Samsung and iFixit have collaborated to offer genuine parts and repair programs for Galaxy devices, enabling users to conduct self-repairs.
  3. The Right to Repair legislation, if passed, would require electronics manufacturers to provide repair information to independent repair providers, potentially fostering innovation and sustainability in the industry.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 01 Aug 22
  1. Samsung has introduced 'repair mode' for its Galaxy smartphones in South Korea to aid technicians in fixing devices without accessing user data, enhancing customer data security.
  2. The rapid turnover of tech products due to planned obsolescence has led to a surge in electronic waste, urging consumers to consider repairing or upgrading devices before recycling.
  3. Electric vehicle batteries are outlasting cars, leading to delays in recycling programs but also presenting opportunities for second-life use before recycling.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 16 Aug 22
  1. Farmers are turning to 'tractor hacking' to bypass digital locks on their vehicles, highlighting the importance of right-to-repair movements in various industries.
  2. Samsung is making repairs for Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Fold 4 cheaper, showing a positive trend towards more affordable repair costs for high-end devices.
  3. Right-to-repair legislation is crucial for reducing personal consumption, e-waste, and potentially saving millions of tons of waste annually, yet the movement lacks comprehensive implementation and global support.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 24 Aug 22
  1. Apple's Self Service Repair program reveals prices for MacBook parts, ranging from generous to expensive, like a logic board costing $4,222.
  2. Tesla customers face challenges with service including long wait times and parts availability, despite the simplified maintenance of electric vehicles.
  3. Community initiatives like 'The Repair Revolution' in New Zealand aim to reduce waste by fixing broken items, highlighting the benefits of repair over replacement.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 05 Sep 22
  1. EU regulators propose extending smartphone lifespans by offering spare parts for up to 5 years to reduce environmental impact.
  2. Right to Repair has become a prominent issue in Quebec's election, with a focus on independent repair shops gaining access to vehicle data.
  3. When purchasing tech products, you may own the physical components but not the software, allowing companies to control repair options and enforce restrictions.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 07 Sep 22
  1. The Massachusetts auto right to repair case revolves around interpreting legislation from 2020 and implementing its requirements.
  2. Designing for climate positivity involves measures like public transit enablement, eliminating programmed obsolescence, and moving towards a four-day workweek.
  3. The 'Right to Repair' legislation has the potential to create large-scale entrepreneurship and gig employment opportunities in the electronics and white goods sector.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 08 May 22
  1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) could impact independent auto repair by potentially limiting repair options for car owners.
  2. Introduction of Ford's Certified Glass Network is an example of how automakers are adapting to the rise of ADAS features in vehicles.
  3. The market for auto repair, such as glass replacement, is evolving due to the increasing reliance on software-based safety features in modern vehicles.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 14 Sep 22
  1. The right to repair movement is gaining momentum globally, with significant legal battles and initiatives such as India's e-repair market potentially worth $20 billion.
  2. Innovations like the Kytch device for repairing McDonald's McFlurry machines and initiatives like Fixit Clinics show the importance of empowering individuals to fix their own belongings, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
  3. Policy changes, like the EU Commission's proposed requirements for smartphones and tablets to be more repairable, are crucial steps towards promoting sustainability, but there are still challenges to address in ensuring true repairability and longevity of electronic devices.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 05 Apr 22
  1. The EU is proposing new rules focusing on making products more durable and repairable, including requirements for information on repairs and updates.
  2. Samsung is launching a repair program allowing owners of certain devices to repair them themselves, with iFixit's assistance to provide repair guides and parts.
  3. Colorado passed a bill granting the right to repair powered wheelchairs, highlighting the importance of repair accessibility for various devices.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 11 Nov 22
  1. FTC is stepping up to enforce unfair competition laws, aiming to crack down on companies using unfair tactics for advantage.
  2. Repair-focused class action lawsuits against manufacturers like Harley Davidson and John Deere are progressing, showing a pushback against restrictions on repair.
  3. Articles highlight challenges in repairing modern products like phones and bicycles, emphasizing the importance of the right to repair movement.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 12 Jan 23
  1. Deere's new repair agreement with the American Farm Bureau Federation raises questions about how effective it will be in granting full repair rights to farmers.
  2. The vague nature of the Deere agreement and lack of enforcement mechanisms could allow Deere to maintain control over repairs and avoid significant changes.
  3. Deere's history of restrictive repair practices and ongoing issues suggest that the current agreement may not lead to substantial improvements for customers unless closely monitored.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 18 May 23
  1. French authorities are investigating Apple for possibly deceptive business practices related to part pairing and limiting repairs.
  2. Legal battles against manufacturers over repair restrictions, like John Deere and Tesla, are on the rise.
  3. Logitech and iFixit have teamed up to offer spare parts and repair guides for Logitech's mice to promote self-repairing.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 21 Dec 21
  1. Canada's push for a right to repair highlights a government effort to promote repairability of electronics and inform consumers about environmental impacts.
  2. Dell's Luna concept laptop focuses on easy disassembly for repair and recycling, aiming to extend the life of components through reuse.
  3. The FTC's letter on regulatory priorities emphasizes the importance of right to repair, signaling potential new rules to address anti-competitive behavior in various industries.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 14 Dec 21
  1. Activists worldwide are pushing for the 'right to repair' movement to combat expensive and environmentally damaging obsolescence of electronics and appliances.
  2. Big companies like John Deere and Facebook are being called out for restricting repair options, while others like Microsoft and iFixit are working to make repair tools more accessible.
  3. Efforts are being made to make products more repairable, reduce e-waste, and shift towards a circular economy model for environmental, financial, and supply chain benefits.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 01 Sep 23
  1. Groups are petitioning to repair McDonald's McFlurry machines due to their high failure rates and complicated repair process involving expensive services from the manufacturer.
  2. iFixit and Public Knowledge are seeking an exemption from the DMCA to fix the software locks on the McFlurry devices, highlighting the challenges faced in accessing repair information due to digital restrictions.
  3. Tesla and Rivian supporting an automotive right to repair campaign may signify a shift in industry attitudes, but caution is advised as MOUs lack clear rules and enforcement mechanisms compared to comprehensive legislation.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 06 Jun 21
  1. Wired's article on McDonald's ice cream machines highlights the importance of the right to repair.
  2. The investigation revealed how obscure machine errors and lack of access to repair options can lead to unfair business practices by manufacturers.
  3. Jeremy O'Sullivan's experience with ice cream kiosks and Kytch's IoT analytics startup sheds light on challenges in the repair industry.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 30 Apr 21
  1. Louis Rossmann is a significant figure in the right to repair movement with over 1.5 million YouTube subscribers. He sheds light on how manufacturers create challenges in repairing devices independently.
  2. Louis Rossmann is actively advocating for the right to repair and has initiated efforts like a GoFundMe campaign to make right to repair laws.
  3. Louis Rossmann emphasizes the importance of pushing for the right to repair to combat manufacturers' monopolies on parts and services.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 09 Mar 21
  1. The interview on The Hacker Mind podcast discussed the importance of the right to repair movement and its potential impact on the future of the Internet of Things.
  2. The conversation highlighted the goals and objectives of the right to repair movement, as well as the role of organizations like SecuRepairs.org in advocating for right to repair legislation.
  3. The podcast episode featured insights from a knowledgeable journalist and author, Robert Vamosi, who has expertise in privacy implications of technology and the risks associated with the Internet of Things.
Fight to Repair 0 implied HN points 19 Feb 21
  1. Manufacturers of agricultural equipment use scare tactics about emissions to build profitable service and repair monopolies.
  2. Unlike the automotive industry, the agricultural equipment market faces stricter restrictions regarding repairs and maintenance.
  3. Big Ag's focus on emissions control is part of a strategy to prevent right to repair laws and perpetuate a monopoly on parts and services, rather than a genuine concern for clean air.