Why Repairability Matters
In some ways, our preponderance toward tech disposability is systemic. We consumers in the US are denied the right to repair: fixing a broken smartphone, then, is costly. It’s simply more convenient to replace our broken item for the newest model.
When your device is broken you should have more options than a high-priced service or the landfill, and New York agrees. The Digital Fair Repair Act should make it easier to repair our smartphones and laptops at shops of *our* choosing. It’s good news, because the law may ultimately bring down repair prices for all of us. And if repair is affordable? Fingers crossed, tech stays out of landfills.
On today’s show: Nicholas De Leon from Consumer Reports breaks down this landmark grassroots consumer win.
Here’s a preview:
[3:45] Need-to-know details about New Yorks’ Digital Fair Repair Act
[9:00] Why aren’t dishwashers, washing machines, and other “white goods” covered?
[19:30] What if any benefits from NY’s new law will non-New Yorkers receive?
[25:00] The bigger picture: Why repair what’s designed to break?
Resources mentioned:
- New York Right-to-Repair Law Promises Easier, Cheaper Electronics Repairs (via Consumer Reports)
- iFixit
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