@jxf @pluralistic yes, I’ve previously read about the terrible consequences for users of experimental bionic implants when venture capitalists get bored with the research project because it’s not being rolled out quickly or widely enough to be profitable to them. Then they pull the funding and the devices can’t be replaced when they stop working

From memory I have read separate stories about a bionic eye implant and a spinal implant. At least one recipient was an engineer who has taught themselves to repair and retrofit their own device, but what makes this so devastating is that in some cases, the surgery to install the device was so invasive that without it now they are worse off than if they’d never got it in the first place

It’s real dystopian cyberpunk stuff

@jxf @pluralistic This reminds me of "Repo: the Genetic Opera" except that you don't need "men with guns repossessing your artificial lung"

No, all you will need is "Support for Lung 2.4 has run out"

@jxf @pluralistic
Not wanting to sound ironic, glasses “stop working” for many users, especially if your required prescription changes over the years.

In my case, yes, when I was younger, I was able to wear the same glasses for over a decade.

But now, my bifocal computer working glasses that cost slightly under €1K need an update every 18–24 months.

https://mastodon.social/@jxf/110420398248478225

That is a shame. And I am glad to cooperate with MEDEL who would never do this. They still support their very first patients.

@jxf @pluralistic @neilhimself

@jxf There's something along those lines but arguably worse which @pluralistic wrote about a little while ago: https://pluralistic.net/2022/12/12/unsafe-at-any-speed/

Note the mention of new & added side-effects.

@jxf @pluralistic

When a company can effectively "brick" your brain, we have taken DRM too far.
I thought the DRM controlled motocycle safety gear was the worst, but we have a new winner with cochlear implants.
Recall a heart valve if we don't maintain subscription?

https://hackaday.com/2021/05/18/do-you-really-own-it-motorcycle-airbag-requires-additional-purchase-to-inflate/