Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the "expiration" of smart appliances, emphasizing that their functionality is heavily reliant on software support, which can be discontinued, rendering the devices obsolete despite their hardware still being functional [6][15][25]. Group 1: Smart Appliances and Their Lifespan - Smart products, including home appliances and vehicles, are essentially mini-computers that require ongoing software updates to maintain functionality [6][8]. - The "expiration" of these devices refers to the end of their system maintenance cycle, which can lead to significant issues if the manufacturer ceases support [15][25]. - A notable example is BYD's announcement that older models can receive updates for smart driving capabilities, highlighting the importance of software support in the automotive sector [8]. Group 2: Consumer Awareness and Experience - A survey indicated that 40% of respondents only realize their product has lost software support when it stops functioning properly, demonstrating a lack of awareness among consumers [21]. - Many consumers believe that their smart appliances will continue to work normally even after losing software support, which can lead to security vulnerabilities [21][22]. - The article mentions that 68% of Americans think manufacturers should disclose the software support duration for their devices, indicating a demand for greater transparency [26]. Group 3: Security Concerns - The article raises concerns about the security risks associated with "zombie" devices, which are smart appliances that can be hacked and used maliciously [22][24]. - A report highlighted a 45% increase in IoT malware attacks, with large enterprises being the primary targets, underscoring the growing security threats in the smart appliance market [24]. Group 4: Manufacturer Responsibilities and Consumer Solutions - Manufacturers are encouraged to clearly indicate the software support duration for their products, which is seen as a necessary commitment to consumers [25][28]. - Some consumers have turned to DIY solutions to repurpose discontinued devices, although this requires technical knowledge that many may not possess [30]. - The article suggests that manufacturers should ensure that devices can operate independently of cloud services, promoting the concept of edge computing for better stability and security [34].