> I know customers are dumb and are easily impressed by cheap gadgetry, but why did we have to throw the baby out with the bath water? I don't think it's about

> I know customers are dumb and are easily impressed by cheap gadgetry, but why did we have to throw the baby out with the bath water? I don't think it's about gadgetry. I think there are a few other things going on. None are really pro-consumer, in my opinion. - Software can be updated. Overhauling mechanical parts is way harder. This lets the manufacturer go a little quicker with development - you can "fix it in post." - Software can be easier to reuse across models of vehicles (in theory). "We'll figure out software-based tailgates just once, and can use it everywhere." - Software can be controlled remotely. For example, Ford filed a patent to disable cars remotely if the owner misses a payment [0]. - Software can help build a monopoly on maintenance. Electronically controlled stuff is way harder (even impossible) to diagnose if you don't have maintenance software and computers to interface with the car. So the manufacturer can control more of the maintenance chain. --- [0] https://fortune.com/2023/03/02/ford-patent-late-payments-shut-off-air-conditioning-radio/ https://fortune.com/2023/03/02/ford-patent-late-payments-shu...