Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-02-01T00:43:19Z

Konradmb: /* The list */ EOS webcam internal article link

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy [[End-user license agreement]] (EULA) just to test it. Then you have to create a new account that links your e-mail and other personal data to the device.

Often this information is hidden deep inside a manual, and there are no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in the manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

==Why not?==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

*Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
*You have to accept a lengthy EULA, often hiding [[EULA roofie|undesirable clauses]], such as [[forced arbitration]].

==The list==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|H6c, Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475 page 4</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400009024&spaceId=34</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Pro
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=03400006898&spaceId=34</ref>
|-
|TP-Link
|Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip, 6-Outlet
|
|<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20240629160455/https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2021/202111/20211101/1910013111_HS300(US)_UG_V2.0.1.pdf"Set Up Your Smart Power Strip" section</ref>
|-
|Canon
|[[Requirement for Canon EOS Webcam Utility subscription to enable webcam features on cameras|EOS Webcam Utility software]]
|
|<ref>[[Requirement for Canon EOS Webcam Utility subscription to enable webcam features on cameras#User Frustrations]] Better source needed</ref>
|-
|Sony
|WH-XB910N
|App is needed to be to change the switch for ambient sound / noise cancellation to including turning it off. Account is needed for the app
|
|}

==Notes==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

===IP cameras===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

===DJI===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Overview]]

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-19T17:40:41Z

Konradmb: /* The list */ Add Canon EOS webcam software

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy [[End-User License Agreement]] (EULA) just to test it. Then you have to create a new account that links your e-mail and other personal data to the device.

Often this information is hidden deep inside a manual, and there are no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in the manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have to accept a lengthy EULA, often hiding [[EULA roofie|undesirable clauses]], such as [[forced arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|H6c, Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475 page 4</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400009024&spaceId=34</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Pro
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=03400006898&spaceId=34</ref>
|-
|TP-Link
|Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip, 6-Outlet
|
|<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20240629160455/https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2021/202111/20211101/1910013111_HS300(US)_UG_V2.0.1.pdf"Set Up Your Smart Power Strip" section</ref>
|-
|Canon
|EOS Webcam Utility software
|
|<ref>[[Requirement for Canon EOS Webcam Utility subscription to enable webcam features on cameras#User Frustrations]] Better source needed</ref>
|}

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

=== DJI ===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

== References ==
<references/>
[[Category:Overview]]

Dyson

2025-01-15T22:37:16Z

Konradmb: Buttons

Dyson is a manufacturer of (expensive) vacuum cleaners.

== Battery packs lacking cell balancing, featuring self-bricking firmware ==

Dyson battery packs contain a Battery Management System (BMS) with a chip that would be capable of balancing the individual cells. However, the manufacturer has decided to leave away a few inexpensive but essential resistors, resulting in no balancing to take effect. As a result, the battery pack wears out much quicker than necessary.

After just a few years, spare battery packs are "out of stock" (e.g., the Dyson V8 SV10 Battery being currently unavailable in Germany), effectively suggesting that the device should be thrown away.

Even if one charges (using a third-party charger) and balances, or even replaces the individual cells, the Battery Management System will still not allow you to charge the battery because its firmware writes 2 bytes into the configuration memory of the microcontroller that essentially bricks the battery pack. However, third-party open source firmware has been written to replace the proprietary firmware for some models, and for some models it has been found out which configuration bits need to be changed in order to un-brick the battery pack<ref>https://github.com/tinfever/FU-Dyson-BMS</ref><ref>https://github.com/davidmpye/V10_Dyson_BMS</ref>. This has been covered in the (specialist) media<ref>https://hackaday.com/2022/05/23/fighting-back-against-dodgy-dyson-batteries/</ref>.

This anti-consumer and anti-repair pattern can be observed across multiple models and product iterations, and appears to be fully intentional.

Open source software has been written to un-brick the battery pack by overwriting the configuration bits for some models using a 3.3V Raspberry Pi board<ref>https://github.com/kumdzio/PIC16LF1847arduino-programmer/tree/main/Dyson_original_firmware_unlocker_with_eeprom_check</ref>.

== Harder to repair buttons ==
[[File:Dyson-glued-button.jpg|thumb|Glued PCB, preventing an easy repair<ref name=":0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KF0nNOAFnRQ</ref>]]
There have been reports of vacuum trigger button being harder to self-repair for a consumer due to the use of glue on the PCB, prompting the user to replace the whole housing.<ref name=":0" /><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUqfrIk-FhM; [[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory#2022|Dyson's repair procedures suck, unlike their vacuums#2022]]</ref>

== References ==
<references />

File:Dyson-glued-button.jpg

2025-01-15T21:09:41Z

Konradmb:

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-15T02:23:19Z

Konradmb: ezviz h6c

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy [[EULA roofie|EULA]], just to test it. Then you have to create a new account that links your e-mail and other personal data to the device.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have to accept a lengthy [[EULA roofie|EULA]], often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|H6c, Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475 page 4</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400009024&spaceId=34</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Pro
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=03400006898&spaceId=34</ref>
|}

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

=== DJI ===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

== References ==
<references/>
[[Category:Overview]]

Talk:List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-15T02:21:13Z

Konradmb: response

Can we remove the hear say, assumptions and improper language?

O_O What? Where? You mean the intro? I've specifically written it in a more relaxed tone, but improper language? I don't even see where and I've certainly keeped myself from using "inflammatory language" as in guidelines. I can't support the intro with sources as it is more like a short parable to inspire the reader.
Assumptions and hearsay - I've tried to support the list with sources, can you point where? Maybe can you add a [citation needed] where you feel it's needed? [[User:Konradmb|Konradmb]] ([[User talk:Konradmb|talk]]) 02:20, 15 January 2025 (UTC)

GameStop

2025-01-15T01:07:34Z

Konradmb: add question, heading

Game selling company.

== Cancellation policy ==
Cancellation<sup>[Of what?]</sup> can only be done via phone call. Hold times are significantly longer than selecting another reason for your call at the same time of day.

Ancestry.com

2025-01-15T01:05:35Z

Konradmb: Add heading

Genealogy company based in the US.

== Cancellation policy ==
Charges 35-45$ cancellation fee without informing the consumer—likely buried in the TOS

Ubisoft

2025-01-15T01:04:36Z

Konradmb: add headings

Ubisoft is a self-proclaimed "AAAA Game Company".

== Anti-consumer practices ==

=== The Crew shutdown ===
Known in the consumer advocacy community recently for retroactively changing the terms of the "sale" of 2014's "The Crew" and then shutting down the service that allows the game to fundamentally function upon licenses expiring.

=== CEO's comments ===
Ubisoft's CEO often makes talk of games as a service and believes it's the future and that consumers should be more comfortable with it. He, he did that right after or before just casually announcing the revoking of access to "The Crew". Ubisoft is also an NFT game company.

HP Instant Ink

2025-01-14T23:55:11Z

Konradmb: add HP+ section

{{InfoboxProductLine
| Title = HP Instant Ink
| Release Year = 2013
| Product Type = Subscription Service
| In Production = Yes
| Official Website = https://instantink.hpconnected.com
}}HP Instant Ink is a subscription service launched by [[HP Inc.]] for their printers in late 2013. <ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20220503181925/https://www.therecycler.com/posts/hp-launches-new-instant-ink-programme/ HP launches new Instant Ink programme The Recycler via Internet Archive]</ref> Consumers with compatible printers can choose from five different plans based on their usage volume and receive a set amount of ink each month to cover that usage. The monthly price includes the relevant ink or toner, delivery, and recycling of used cartridges.

In 2024, HP began offering paper in monthly plans for an additional fee in select countries such as the U.S., the UK, metropolitan France, and Germany. <ref>[https://instantink.hpconnected.com/us/en/l/v2/paper HP paper Add-on Service]</ref>

Also in 2024, a new [[HP All-In Plan]], a printer lease program, was announced. This program includes a printer that limits the number of pages you can print, effectively removing the ability to use other cartridges. <ref>[https://www.hp.com/us-en/all-in-plan/printers.html HP All In Plan]</ref> The program offers three different printers, each with various printing plans based on the number of pages to be printed, at different prices.
==== Pricing ====
As of January 2025, the pricing for each tier of the service for customers in the US was as follows:

<div style="display: flex;justify-content: space-around;">

{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="6" |HP Instant Ink
|-
|
!Light
!Occasional
!Moderate
!Frequent
!Business
|-
!'''Pages / Month'''
|10
|50
|100
|300
|700
|-
!'''$US / Month'''
|1.49
|4.99
|6.99
|13.99
|27.99
|-
! colspan="6" |Paper Plan
|-
!'''+$US / Month'''
|0.79
|1.99
|3.49
|5.99
|10.99
|-
!'''Total'''
|2.28
|6.98
|10.48
|19.98
|38.97
|}
</div>

=== Cost Savings ===
HP claims that "most customers save on ink and many save up to 50% compared to buying traditional ink cartridges." <ref>[https://www.hp.com/us-en/printers/instant-ink/faq.html#faq HP Instant Ink FAQ.]</ref> The cost savings are based on the monthly subscription cost of the 700 page/month "Business" plan of the program, and the results are compared to the cost per page to print ISO/IEC 24711 pages on A4 paper in color.

The printers used in the study that led to these findings in the 2022 and 2023 reports <ref>[https://keypointintelligence.com/HPInstantInk Keypoint Intelligence Study]</ref> were all HP branded, and the ink or toner was OEM (i.e. not using third-party inks), as HP notes in their FAQ sections. Comparisons were not made with the XL cartridges, which are cheaper per unit of ink.

=== Cancellation or Alteration of Plans ===

HP Instant Ink can be canceled at any time according to the terms of the service <ref>[https://instantink.hpconnected.com/us/en/terms HP Instant Ink Terms]</ref> with billing stopping at the end of the month. Upon cancellation, all outstanding debts are collected.

The HP All-in program can be canceled for free if done within 30 days of enrolling, and the printer is returned within 10 days of cancellation. However, if the subscription has been maintained for longer than 30 days and less than 24 months, there are additional fees to cancel (as per the FAQ on Jan 13).

At the time of writing, the Basic printer starts at $6.99 per month ($83.88 per year), and cancellation after 30 days but before 12 months will cost $120 in fees. Before 24 months, it would cost $60 in fees. That is 143% and 71% of the per-year cost of this plan, respectively.
=== Lawsuit ===

On July 6, 2021, a class action lawsuit was filed against HP. <ref>[https://www.classaction.org/media/barnert-v-hp-inc.pdf Barnert v HP Inc.] Case File via classaction.org</ref>

The main claims of the suit were:

* HP will block you from using cartridges or ink purchased outside of the program, a fact they do not disclose.
* Cartridges and toners are not always sent in time.
* Sometimes cartridges are faulty on arrival.
* Prepaid return mailers are not always supplied.
* Upon cancellation, you cannot use the remainder of your ink.

In February 2023, HP settled the complaints, and the parties have filed for dismissal. <ref>[https://www.therecycler.com/posts/hp-settles-instant-ink-complaint/ HP settles Instant Ink Complaint]</ref>

=== HP+ ===
HP+ is a free 6 months trial of HP Instant Ink that comes with a new printer. It is optional, but it is extremely easy for a user to activate HP+ during installation.<ref>https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/hp-instant-ink-vs-hp-plus-vs-hp-smart-which-ink-program-saves-you-the-most</ref> After activating HP+, the printer is permanently flashed with an updated firmware that will only accept HP genuine consumables.<ref>https://www-dodrukarki-pl.translate.goog/blog/dlaczego-drukarki-z-serii-hp-nie-obsluguja-zamiennikow?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=pl&_x_tr_pto=wapp</ref>

All HP printer models ending with an "'''e'''" (for example ''HP OfficeJet 8035'''e''''') support activating HP+.<ref>https://support.shopperplus.com/en/support/solutions/articles/9000227500-hp-printers-models-ending-with-the-letter-e-does-not-recognize-compatible-cartridges</ref> When looking for a used HP printer beware of those models, as it's likely that previous owner activated HP+, so you won't be able to use cheaper non-OEM replacement ink cartridges/toner.

== References ==

[[Category:Product Line]]
[[Category:Lawsuits]]
[[Category:anti-consumer]]

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T23:32:56Z

Konradmb: EULA roofie

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy [[EULA roofie|EULA]], just to test it. Then you have to create a new account that links your e-mail and other personal data to the device.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have to accept a lengthy [[EULA roofie|EULA]], often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475 page 4</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref><nowiki>https://youtu</nowiki>. be/HIO6f9xiebY?t=110</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|}

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

=== DJI ===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

== References ==
<references/>

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T23:28:30Z

Konradmb:

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy EULA, just to test it.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have to accept a lengthy EULA, often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475 page 4</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref><nowiki>https://youtu</nowiki>. be/HIO6f9xiebY?t=110</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|}

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

=== DJI ===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

== References ==
<references/>

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T23:24:47Z

Konradmb: DJI note

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy EULA, just to test it.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have accept a lengthy EULA, often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref><nowiki>https://youtu</nowiki>. be/HIO6f9xiebY?t=110</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|}
<references />

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.
<references />

=== DJI ===
All DJI devices appear to need account for setup. The Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.<ref>https://drones.stackexchange.com/questions/2209/how-come-the-dji-fly-app-is-not-in-google-play-store</ref> It was previously available on Play Store, but has been pulled off in 2021. DJI officially says it's due to changing "compatibility strategy".<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20211213081844/https://twitter.com/DJISupport/status/1470305900132913152</ref>

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T22:50:55Z

Konradmb: IP cams

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy EULA, just to test it.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have accept a lengthy EULA, often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref><nowiki>https://youtu</nowiki>. be/HIO6f9xiebY?t=110</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en "Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|}
<references />

== Notes ==
Some device groups have an unified idea about account requirements, even through different manufacturers.

=== IP cameras ===
A lot of modern IP cameras do not have a traditional RTSP/HTTP video stream access, but need to be paired with an app. The smartphone app is the only means to view the camera stream. There's no sustainable way to record the stream locally. You are forced to use manufacturer's cloud storage subscription solution.

Sometimes volunteers have provided a way to circumvent this restriction, providing an alternative firmware that an advanced user can flash.<ref>https://github.com/roleoroleo/yi-hack-Allwinner-v2</ref> This is not an ideal solution, as the support is sometimes janky, and manufacturer can always block this in newer model revisions.

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T22:35:14Z

Konradmb: Add DJI, forced arbitration, youtube link triggers spam filter

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy EULA, just to test it.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

* Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>
* You have accept a lengthy EULA, often requiring [[Forced Arbitration]].

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475</ref>
|-
|DJI
|Osmo Pocket 3
|Android app needs to be sideloaded, circumventing Google's Play Store security checks.
|<ref><nowiki>https://youtu</nowiki>. be/HIO6f9xiebY?t=110</ref>
|-
|DJI
|RS 3 Mini
|Allows "5 trial uses" without activation.
|<ref>https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400007193&spaceId=34&re=US&lang=en

"Activating the Gimbal" section</ref>
|}

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T22:19:30Z

Konradmb: Add intro

You've just bought your shiny new gadget. As you've just unboxed it, you want to set it up. Unfortunately, you can't do anything with it as is. You have to pair it with some shady app on your smartphone and accept a lengthy EULA, just to test it.

Often this information is hidden deep inside manual, no mentions on the product page or box. Sometimes it's not even disclosed in manual. You have to watch some random unboxing videos on YouTube, to get to know that you need to create an account to use the device.

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475</ref>
|}

List of devices requiring account for initial setup

2025-01-14T22:10:17Z

Konradmb: Added new page

== Why not? ==
'''Why would I want to avoid such devices?'''

Sometimes when you buy such a device, you can receive an open-box unit which is paired to an account of the previous owner. Unlinking it is often impossible without an access to paired account, as even the manufacturer's support refuses to do it, citing "security reasons".<ref>https://ipcamtalk.com/threads/ezviz-c8c-camera-blocked-by-previous-owner.63418/#post-666651</ref>

== The list ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Manufacturer
!Model
!Notes
!Source
|-
|EZVIZ
|Probably all cameras
|
|<ref>https://mfs.ezvizlife.com/H6c_QSG_EN(EU)(V1.0.0).pdf?ver=52475</ref>
|}