Logitech has an idea for a "forever mouse" that requires a subscription
Logitech's CEO proposed a "forever mouse" designed for longevity through software updates via subscription, targeting professionals at around $200, while emphasizing sustainability and self-repair features.
Read original articleLogitech's CEO, Hanneke Faber, has proposed the concept of a "forever mouse," a device designed to last indefinitely through regular software updates delivered via a subscription model. During a podcast interview, Faber expressed optimism about the feasibility of such a product, which would be comparable in quality to a durable watch. The idea is to create a mouse that users would not need to replace, relying on continuous software enhancements to maintain its functionality. While Logitech has not yet announced specific plans for this product, Faber acknowledged the challenge of developing a sustainable business model that avoids high hardware costs.
The potential price for the "forever mouse" could be around $200, targeting professionals and enthusiasts, as the average mouse typically retails for about $26. Logitech aims to grow its market by appealing to consumers who do not own both a mouse and keyboard, with the "forever mouse" positioned as a premium offering. Subscription models are increasingly popular in tech, providing consistent revenue streams, but may deter some customers due to ongoing costs. Faber also mentioned the importance of durability and self-repair options, suggesting that a well-designed mouse could incorporate features for easy upgrades and repairs. Logitech is also focused on sustainability goals, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2031.
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In fact, there's almost no information other than "Logitech would like customers to pay them monthly".
How about this: you make a "forever mouse", sell it at a profit, and people simply keep buying it because it's so fricking great? They also buy one for their workplace (or get the company to buy it) since it's not the lightest mouse around, they might also buy it as a gift and... You get the point, just this thing might bring them enough revenue _if_ this is really such a good product that they would capture more of the market share even if their product is very durable.
This is not a good idea. The fact their "innovation center" came up with a subscription is hilarious.
I do actualyl like Logitech mice, this would turn me off of them permanently.
There is no reason for a mouse to need a software update. This is a completely made-up narrative. All functions of the mouse should be accounted for without the need for follow-up; a company like Logitech should already have an excellent framework for mouse firmware that is free from bugs or inefficiencies that would require updating.
And this comparison to a mouse as an analog to a "super expensive watch" is completely misguided. They're just coming up with an excuse to make a "super expensive mouse".
Generally speaking though, most people who take computer peripherals seriously don't very much care about the mouse, and focus instead of on having a fancy and expensive mechanical keyboard. And there is no glory in buying some corporate "forever keyboard" with paid updates, your peers will ridicule you for not building your own from PCBs you ordered online and 3d printed casing. After all, the bigger a power-user you are, the less likely you are to even touch the mouse.
This is dumb idea dreamed up by stupid people in a boardroom, where the topic of the meeting was "Money: how to make it".
Edit: apologies for assuming gender
Using a programmable Roccat where all customization is embedded in the firmware of the mouse. This means the configuration stays between switching computers and operating systems, and cannot be affect by overzealous OS and application security.
Nothing like controlling the computer volume, mute, and active window right from the mouse. Great for seamless controlling game volume to better hear quite environments or reduce loud ones, quick mute when someone at work wants to talk.
All of that would be come a nightmare with SaaS and waste CPU cycles.
The only one that matters is that you replace it for free or for a nominal fee when it breaks or becomes unworkable, at minimal inconvenience to the customer. See Darn Tough socks for reference.
I’ll call it enshitify.ai , and it will be subscription based, of course.
Switches can last years or decades depending on quality and use. The rest of the electronics will last essentially forever. The only thing that can reasonably wear out or break permanently are the plastic and rubber parts. USB HID won't ever go away or change. As long as USB ports exist your mouse will still work.
Logitech can go pound sand.
Many companies are certainly heading in this direction. I think a better direction should be something like "you will own less because you will need less and it will last longer".
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