I think the real issue is we don't have a good reliable way to have different gadgets talk to each other reliably. So they go the route that's easiest for most consumers and have them phone home and run instructions through their servers. Of course we don't need a dishwasher that is internet connected and those function could be on the display. However, it also is easy to internet connect them and offer changing functionality. The arrival of standards like matter off iot is hopefully going to improve this situation.
Yes, but now that home assistant is matter certified, maybe we'll see more take up. Not to mention Sonos getting railed for messing up their app. Make it open and people can choose the app to use.
There is no need to connect appliances to the net, but there are benefits. Similarly, with a home network.
It's a pity we don't have existing regulations to require features to work without an account and to make removal of features a reason for a refund. Servers cost money but I don't need the manufacturer to have a server of it's open from the start.
Yep, it's a shame. And it's probably 20 years too late to change now.
A simple standardised interface onnroutersz like a home network html page that just links you through to the device. It's not a new concept. Old printers used to have it so you could print across the network.
Unfortunately, as it's only tech literate people accessing and changing their router settings, they remain obtuse and complex. If info to any persons house that's boomerz their wifi is ispname123 and the password is a sticker that they keep on a drawer.
My current router has a simple and advanced interface which I think is a step in the right direction.