Oh, I am a big advocate of open protocols so you can host the hub locally rather than it connecting back to some AWS server. Hence the ZWave and Zigbee reference.
Yep, if you rent it doesn't make as much sense. All I was pointing out is that automation is way more than just being able to flip your light on using your phone. I have ZWave switches in my home and I don't use my phone to flip any switches. For me, I like being able to program the house and customize it in any way.
A motion sensor hard wired vs one that goes back to a Zigbee/Zwave hub running OpenHab are not too different. One is some added complexity for added flexibility.
Even worse, let's apply the non network neutrality argument: the washer won't work without certain "licensed" detergents sold as for the safety of the washer (some claim about harm of the device from the wrong detergent).
Consumers need to outright reject these attempts by manufacturers. Is there risk that some appliances already put some sort of timer chip and stop working after some time? Kind of the HP inkjet business model?
We need some open source washer companies, I would pay a premium for an open source washing machine.
When done well it provides more than just toggling a switch on your phone. Examples are timers for lights to say turn on outdoor lights at dusk. Turning on thr garage light when the garage door opens. Double tapping the switch by thr front door to turn off all lights in your home.
I'd like to think that shunning home automation isn't the answer, rather demanding open protocols and no internet connection required, such as with ZWave and more so Zigbee.
This actually isn't true. Servers makr minimum wage, if all night they were tipped $0 then the resturant is required to pay them more hourly to hit minimum wage. Their combined pay from tips and the restaurant's pay must meet minimum wage. That is a federal law so it applies to all states. States can increase the minimum wage but cannot decrease it.
Its time for an open source washer!