State Seeks to Ban Tech Firms from Hiding Software Support Deadlines

Technology has become an integral part of daily life, with devices such as smartphones, gaming consoles, and computers continuously evolving. These devices often receive regular updates and upgrades throughout their lifespan. For instance, smartphones typically see a new model released each year, prompting consumers to replace their still-functional, barely-used devices. This trend extends to software as well, though many users are unaware of how long tech companies plan to support older models.

Even if you purchased your smart TV, router, or other devices just a few years ago, the software may no longer be receiving updates. While the device might still function, it could lose critical security features or face limitations in downloading new applications. Understanding how long support will last for each device can help you determine when it might need to be replaced. This is precisely what the California Connected Consumer Products bill aims to address.

The bill mandates that manufacturers provide at least five years of software support and include clear timelines for all products. This initiative seeks to reduce electronic waste, lower the risk of cyberattacks, and empower consumers by informing them about the longevity of their purchases. It aligns with the right-to-repair movement, which encourages greater flexibility for consumers to fix their own devices rather than relying on repair shops.

How the California Connected Consumer Products Bill Benefits Consumers

The bill, known as SB-898, offers several advantages to consumers. One key benefit is helping buyers understand how long a particular device will be supported. For example, knowing that a router will only receive support for a limited time allows owners to make more informed purchasing decisions. If you are aware of when the minimum guaranteed support ends, you can plan for when to replace the device or seek a different brand or model with a longer support period.

Another significant advantage of the bill is its role in protecting against cyberattacks. When a device loses support, it may also lose its security features, making it more vulnerable to hacking. Knowing when support ends gives owners the opportunity to replace their device with a newer one that still receives manufacturer protection.

Being informed about a device’s support timeline also helps consumers avoid unnecessary repair costs. A user might notice certain features not working and assume the device is broken, when in reality, it's simply no longer receiving updates. In such cases, taking the device to a repair shop or falling for common tech repair myths would be a waste of money. The bill requires manufacturers to notify owners via email when support is ending, allowing customers to opt for a new device instead of investing further in an outdated one.

How the New Bill Can Help Fight E-Waste

Another major benefit of the California Connected Consumer Products Bill is its positive impact on the environment. Instead of replacing devices annually and discarding the old ones, people may choose to keep them longer, aligning with the end of the support date. According to the World Health Organization, millions of electrical and electronic devices are discarded each year. These include items that are broken, damaged, made obsolete, or simply tossed out to upgrade to a newer model.

Knowing when support for a device like a smartphone, smart TV, or tablet will end could reduce the number of devices thrown away. Any electronic device that is discarded is considered e-waste. Proper disposal through recycling is essential to prevent toxins from entering the environment, which can pose risks to humans and wildlife. Concerns over e-waste may have contributed to some smartphone manufacturers stopping the inclusion of chargers in the box.

Legislative Progress and Future Implications

Bill SB-898 was introduced by Senator Weber Pierson on January 20, 2026. It underwent three amendments in the Senate and two in the Assembly. If passed and signed by California’s governor, technology manufacturers will be required to follow the rules and regulations outlined in the bill regarding software support timelines.

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