Open Thread Update: Dumbest “Smart” Technology

Last time we asked you to share your experiences with dumb ‘smart” technology in all its frustrating glory, and you didn’t disappoint.

Reader Sharon R. nails it.

I have used computers at work for years, and thought I was ok. But as things get more complicated, I’m constantly frustrated. What happened to the “on” and “off” buttons we used to love? I have 3 cats & bought an automatic kitty litter machine. It’s great but do I really want my phone to tell me each time a cat goes to the bathroom? I think not. That’s a bit more than I need to know.

She’s not the only one who misses the “on” and “off’ button.

I remember my first computer and talking to tech help. He had me turn it on and later said turn it off. I told him there was no “off” button. He kept telling me where to find it and I told him it wasn’t there. FINALLY, I realized the “off” button was the same button that said “on”. Why didn’t it say “on/off” like my TV did? Live and learn.

-Bonnie M.

No Paper Instruction Manuals

Reader Bonnie M is among several with this pet peeve:  “mourning the end of paper manuals and paper in general” (and don’t get her started on smart toothbrushes!). Reader Ann agrees. she liked the video but noted  – perhaps with a little envy…

…I’m amazed that he has a PAPER instruction manual.

Reader Catherine G. chimes in.

Right?! I love paper manuals (when they’re well written, that is, which most no longer are) and hardly anyone supplies them. What if I need information and I’m out of internet range? Also, a book never needs to be recharged or get new batteries!

Needless Phone Apps

… lamps that are controlled by an app. I’m sure it would be a lot easier and faster to just walk over to a traditional lamp and turn it on rather than my taking time to find the phone then open an app just to turn on a lamp.

Too Many Bells and Whistles

My LG washer dryer combo. That machine is like a space ship. I feel like a dumbbell every time I use it. I can’t believe that a piece of machinery is making me nervous

-Vicki L.

Did I miss any? Keep ’em coming and thanks for playing!

ORIGINAL TEXT

I long for the days when I was smarter than my appliances.

I’ve been looking for a few new appliances. Nothing fancy. Or so I thought.

Now I can choose between a fridge with wifi, an instant pot with connectivity, and an oven that needs bluetooth.  Why do my appliances need to talk to my phone?  To gossip about how analog I am? How many apps do I have to keep track of?

While the internet and smart devices have many great uses for monitoring safety, or health, or finances….there’s a limit. (For me it’s a smart toothbrush).

A fridge has one job. Keep my food from spoiling.

An instapot has one job. Cook the food.

I’m capable of finding a recipe on my own when I need one. I don’t want to need another app or open another account (with a unique  password, of course!  I already have 62 passwords!).  I don’t want some manufacturer to harvest my data.  Or decide a few months in, that the features I got for free will now require a subscription.  Or be unable to use my dishwasher, printer or whatnot because the wifi is down or have to buy a new phone because the appliance tech has been upgraded.

And I dread the day I’ll need to buy a car, since cars now have dashboards that look like the dash of a fighter jet.  With touchscreens that require you to take your eyes off the road to check that it ‘took.”  What’s wrong with a simple button you can press?

I think this guy said it — wildly profanely — but best. And hilariously.

Please, manufacturers  – bring back dumb appliances and cars!

YOUR TURN

But that’s me. What smart appliances seem like overkill to you?  What do you think about all these “smart” devices and appliances? When did your “smart tech” drive you crazy?  Share your story in the comments!

Virge Randall is Senior Planet’s Managing Editor. She is also a freelance culture reporter who seeks out hidden gems and unsung (or undersung) treasures for Straus Newspapers; her blog “Don’t Get Me Started” puts a quirky new spin on Old School New York City. Send  Open Thread suggestions to editor@seniorplanet.org.