Get your smart machine only if it works without connecting to the vendor's server. Connect, set it up to your satisfaction. If available, download a copy of the firmware. Disconnect from the servers, switching to local control. Do NOT update firmware.
Echelon kills smart home gym equipment offline capabilities with update - Ars Technica
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/07/firmware-update-hinders-echelon-smart-home-gym-equipments-ability-to-work-offline/
I've seen Tonal users compare that firmware updates sometimes brick their equipment. Not like you just lose the "smart" features... you lose use of it entirely as I understand it.
These machines tend to be outrageously expensive initial cost and then quite pricey for subscription costs.
I got hit twice by CN 3d printer vendors. An Anker firmware update forced using the app. I had 4 machines (for about 2 years) purchased for about $1800. I did quit the firmware updates and kept local access (usb) but this pissed me off and there was a new hotness in 3d machines with new, great features --BambuLabs. I bought 2 (total $1100). They are great machines. About 6 months after I'd bought them, Bambu started pulling the same forced app crap that would nuke offline LAN-only access. Because of my experience with Anker, I had already killed updates. I did put a couple of copies of my current firmware in my files.
>monetize
Besides collecting user data to sell, Debbie says that these CN companies may be being ordered by Bejing to get their users on CN servers so the gov has full access.
<+>
If you've been following along on the robot lawnmower thread, I think I commented that the mower had to offer local, NO app control. Otherwise, you're going to end up with a $3k brick one day.
>Anker
Speak of the devil...
Anker is no longer selling 3D printers | The Verge
https://www.theverge.com/report/714006/anker-stop-selling-3d-printer-m5-m5c-parts-eufymake