Louis Rossmann

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Louis Rossmann Community on Lemmy.world: For fans/supporters of Louis Rossmann and his work

About Louis Rossmann

Louis Rossmann is a repair shop owner and a vocal supporter of the Right To Repair movement. He runs a YouTube channel with a variety of content - from board repair videos, to news and updates in the technology space.

His insightful and reasonable opinions on technology and product ownership tend to attract a lot of attention.

Community Guidelines

  1. Be nice
  2. Respect others' perspectives
  3. No advertising
  4. Follow the rules of the instance we're hosted on: https://mastodon.world/about

Interested in being a moderator for this community? Positions are currently open.

founded 1 year ago
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Key Points

  1. Forced Arbitration Issues: Forced arbitration often strips consumers of their ability to seek justice in court, allowing companies to escape accountability. This affects trust in consumer rights.
  2. Misrepresentation Consequences: Selling a product that doesn’t match its description (like a car that’s a lawnmower) highlights the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers from deceptive practices.
  3. Profitability vs. Ethics: Steam’s choice to revert its policy illustrates that companies can act ethically and still maintain profitability, challenging the notion that profit comes at the expense of consumer rights.
  4. Corporate Accountability: When companies voluntarily improve policies without external pressure, it reflects a commitment to accountability and ethical behavior, fostering goodwill among consumers.
  5. Effective Communication: Shorter, concise videos can capture attention and convey messages quickly, appealing to audiences with limited time while still informing them.
  6. Consumer Awareness: Raising awareness about corporate practices helps consumers make informed decisions and holds companies accountable, contributing to a healthier marketplace.
  7. Positive Change in Industry: Steam’s decision could inspire other companies to reassess their policies, promoting a culture of consumer-first practices across various industries.

Pinned by Louis Rossmann

@flixgribv | 2 days ago

Please don't do shorts, I don't watch any of them and don't want to start doing it

Louis Rossmann | @rossmanngroup | 2 days ago

Short video means world is getting better. Long video means world is getting worse. Pray for shorts. Nothing but shorts.

Screenshot:

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I love Louis and I've been following his videos for a long time. What he does is supremely important to our messed up society.

But here's the thing: for the past few months, I've had the distinct feeling than each of Louis' videos is slightly more unhinged than the previous one.

I mean I'm fully aware Louis' videos are not mainstream, and until recently, I've always felt there was a clear method to the randomness. But lately, it¨s been more randomness than method for me, and it's reached a point where I feel it's doing a disservice to the causes of right to repair and sovereign ownership.

Am I the only one who feels this way?

I really hate to come out saying this, but I really think there's something going on with Louis, and beyond the causes he fights for on our behalf - and goodness knows I'm eternally grateful for what he's achieved - I'm honestly a bit worried for him.

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Summary

  1. The speaker lists four things that should not be named, including Voldemort from Harry Potter.
  2. A controversial figure is discussed in relation to a mobile repair subreddit and a New York state government decision negatively impacting their business.
  3. A video application called Gray J is introduced, designed to help users follow creators across different platforms while maintaining privacy.
  4. The speaker praises Linus from Linus Tech Tips for his video series "DeGoogle Your Life," which highlights alternatives to big tech services that invade privacy.
  5. Linus's recent ad-free YouTube video was removed for alleged community guideline violations, reflecting broader issues with YouTube's priorities.
  6. The speaker recalls a similar incident involving another content creator, emphasizing the challenges faced by those who speak out against big tech practices.
  7. A YouTuber relying on advertising revenue had a video deleted due to community guideline violations, promoting unpaid open-source software.
  8. The speaker questions whether the deletion of this video is coincidental, especially since it addressed reducing reliance on Google services.
  9. The speaker calls for community support for the YouTuber and curiosity about the implications of Google's actions on both the YouTuber and the mentioned software.
  10. The video concludes with a humorous note about learning and understanding the situation better.

Key Points

  1. Censorship Concerns: The removal of Linus’s video for discussing privacy tools highlights the ongoing issue of censorship on major platforms. This raises questions about the motivations behind such actions.
  2. Promoting Alternatives: Linus’s commitment to promoting non-proprietary software showcases the importance of alternatives in a world dominated by data-hungry corporations. This could empower users to reclaim their privacy.
  3. Community Impact: The tech community’s response to Linus’s video removal will be crucial in advocating for transparency and fairness in content moderation practices across platforms.
  4. User Empowerment: By educating viewers on privacy tools, Linus is empowering them to take control of their digital lives, which is vital in today’s data-driven landscape.
  5. Integrity Over Profit: Linus’s choice to feature software that doesn’t sponsor him demonstrates his integrity and commitment to user welfare over financial gain, making him a trustworthy figure in tech.
  6. Long-term Implications: The backlash faced by Linus may have broader implications for content creators discussing sensitive topics, impacting future discussions on privacy and data rights.
  7. Advocating for Change: The situation calls for a collective effort within the tech community to push back against unjust platform policies, ensuring creators can advocate for user rights without fear of repercussions.

Pinned by Louis Rossmann

Comment:

@gnuffe7778 | 4 hours ago

Why do you have shades on inside?

Louis reply:

@rossmanngroup | 6 hours ago (edited)

Why do you not?

Break the conditioning. Stop following societal norms that don't benefit you. Stop watching ads. Stop going into debt for consumer luxuries that don't improve life. Stop subscribing to everything. Stop accepting cars that spy on you to sell you ads and increase your insurance.. Stop accepting DRM'd media. Stop buying pearsonvue textbooks new.

Stop accepting the premise that rose colored glasses cannot be worn indoors!

Be your own man. Be the unreasonable man.

"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world: the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man."

George Bernard Shaw, Man and Superman

Right to privacy

Right to repair

Right to wear rose colored sunglasses; even indoors.

SCOTT STORCH FOUGHT VALIANTY FOR THIS RIGHT TWENTY YEARS AGO; I WILL NOT LET IT DIE ON MY WATCH!

Screenshot of Pinned Comment:


Scott Spencer Storch is an American record producer and songwriter. Storch began his career as part of Philadelphia-based hip hop band the Roots, which he joined as a keyboardist prior to the release of their 1993 album, Organix. He provided the keyboard riff and co-produced Dr. Dre's 1999 single "Still D.R.E.," and contributed in a similar role to the rapper's productions during late 1990s. Storch expanded his solo production work into the 2000s; he was credited on five Billboard Hot 100-number one singles—Beyoncé's "Baby Boy," Terror Squad's "Lean Back," 50 Cent's "Candy Shop," Mario's "Let Me Love You" and Chris Brown's "Run It!"—among other similarly successful chart entries throughout the remaining decade. Storch has been nominated for four Grammy Awards.

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Summary

  1. The speaker operates a repair business in New York City and reflects on the challenges of finding a new location in a cramped 650 square foot space with 12 employees.
  2. They compare their situation to chickens needing more space to avoid pecking at each other and lament the loss of small businesses replaced by chain stores.
  3. In 2019, they documented their search for commercial space, noting exorbitant rental prices, such as $75,000 for a slightly larger space.
  4. The speaker shares personal experiences tied to local shops, highlighting the unique charm of small businesses that have disappeared due to rising costs.
  5. They express nostalgia for a city that has significantly changed over the years, with a particular focus on the impact of commercial mortgage-backed securities on the city.
  6. The speaker discusses how rising rents lead to lower property valuations, triggering financial crises for property owners and resulting in vacant buildings.
  7. They highlight a dramatic drop in property values, citing an example of a building that sold for $332 million in 2006, now valued at only $8.5 million.
  8. The speaker warns against misconceptions that success is easily replicable, emphasizing that circumstances vary greatly among businesses.
  9. They reflect on their journey from starting a small business to facing the challenges of rising commercial rents in New York City, expressing sadness over the current state of the city.
  10. The speaker hopes for a revival of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, advocating for a return to a vibrant community filled with unique shops and services.

Screenshot of Pinned Comment:

Pinned by Louis Rossmann

Comment:

@classicclassi6146 | 2 weeks ago (edited)

Being in a world intimidated by online resumes being rejected and everyone blaming you for not being perfect, hearing you tout your business success makes you feel kinda good knowing being talented and capable can go to the head of the line over nepotism or recruitability

Reply:

@rossmanngroup | 2 weeks ago

I've never been able to get a real job. even today I can't get a job that pays thirty to forty thousand dollars. Every now and then I test this by applying to a bunch of jobs with a properly professionally put together resume just to remind myself that the moment I take my off off the ball and let things slack, I lose everything. It's over.

It keeps me motivated to continue to be the best I can be in all of my endeavors and to never let things slack even when it's very tempting to.

A lot of people like you will never be accepted into the normal world. I'm one of them. Instead of trying to bang my fists and feet against the front door of the real world, I went off and made my own. I believe that you'll have the ability to do the same in due time!

It means a lot of time bumbling around, not having a fucking clue what you're doing with your life, where you live, what you'll eat, what tomorrow holds, dealing with the stress of there being no guarantee of a future, and the possibility that you're wasting all of your time for nothing. It's a hard thing to do. It all becomes worth it once something finally clicks.

I don't blame most people for not having the stomach to do this. The only reason I had the stomach for it is because I had no choice. I think that's what makes it easiest for people like me. It's Not the fact that I'm special, smart, or brave. It's that we have no choice. It's a superpower because it forces you to do the thing that you need to do to live an awesome life later.

The normal world sucks anyway; the best part of life is coming up with a plan to make your own. :)

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Short Summary

  1. The speaker discusses a significant detail overlooked in a previous video about a legal case involving Disney and a patron's death from an allergic reaction.
  2. The case revolves around a forced arbitration clause in Disney's streaming service agreement, preventing the victim's family from suing Disney in court.
  3. The speaker argues that if the patron had pirated Disney's content instead of subscribing, they might have had legal recourse.
  4. This leads to a broader critique of corporate practices, highlighting instances where consumers are unfairly treated or misled after legitimate purchases.
  5. The speaker expresses frustration with the notion that consumers should read lengthy agreements to understand their rights, believing companies exploit these agreements to avoid accountability.
  6. They criticize companies like Adobe and Disney for taking away access to software and content that customers have paid for.
  7. The speaker argues that disabling activation servers or imposing restrictive DRM punishes legitimate customers while making piracy more appealing.
  8. They highlight a specific case where a customer was denied a refund for perpetually licensed software that no longer worked due to server shutdowns.
  9. The speaker criticizes the idea that paying for content absolves companies from responsibility and claims paying customers often receive worse treatment than those who pirate.
  10. They emphasize the importance of fair treatment for those who choose to pay for products, arguing that the current system incentivizes piracy by providing better access and ownership rights.
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Summary

  1. Monopolistic tendencies: Reddit’s partnership with Google exemplifies how big tech companies work together to limit competition, ultimately harming users.
  2. Loss of niche communities: The transition from small forums to platforms like Reddit signifies a loss of personal interaction and community-driven knowledge.
  3. Financial barriers: The requirement for new search engines to pay for access to Reddit’s data creates significant financial hurdles that can stifle innovation.
  4. Diminished search quality: As content becomes gated, users are left with lower-quality search results dominated by SEO-driven sites.
  5. Reduced choice: The consolidation of internet resources leads to a lack of diversity in search options, limiting users’ abilities to find information.
  6. Exploiting user content: Reddit’s policies indicate a shift towards monetizing user-generated content for corporate gain rather than user benefit.
  7. Future implications: If these trends continue, the internet may become a less accessible and more controlled space, reminiscent of pre-internet information gatekeeping.

Short Summary

  1. [Louis] Rossman reflects on the decline of the internet from 20 to 25 years ago, which was characterized by vibrant, small communities and forums.
  2. He reminisces about platforms like DMmusic.com and the Womb forums, where he engaged with industry professionals and learned from influential figures in music and recording.
  3. Rossman laments the shift towards monopolistic platforms like Reddit and Facebook, which have replaced diverse online spaces.
  4. He criticizes the current state of the internet, expressing frustration with recent changes by Google and Reddit that limit access for alternative search engines.
  5. The speaker discusses the challenges of using alternative search engines to Google, highlighting the dominance of Google Maps and Places for local business searches.
  6. They point out a new barrier to entry where platforms like Reddit may charge fees for search engines to index their content, potentially limiting access to information online.
  7. Rossman emphasizes the need for an open internet, arguing that failures in business should not restrict information access for others.
  8. He reflects on the normalization of subscription models and the difficulties younger generations face in accessing digital content without fees.
  9. The speaker shares personal experiences regarding rising costs in their industry, making it harder for newcomers to enter the market.
  10. Rossman concludes by expressing optimism about returning to work despite recent health issues and emphasizes the importance of competition and access to resources in the industry.

Pinned by Louis Rossmann

@rudiger86 | 6 days ago (edited)

Why is your audio always out of sync to the video?

Reply:

Louis Rossmann | @rossmanngroup | 6 days ago (edited)

I'm a Linux user, nothing works the way it's supposed to. If it did, it wouldn't be any fun. Pipewire with wireplumber, stock settings. There is probably some one thousand page manpage I'm supposed to read in order to get synced audio. Fuck if i have the time for it though.

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I don't see this story being shared on Lemmy and I don't know why. The Youtuber in this video has been shoved onto the front lines by a greedy company that can't own up to it's own failed product and instead wants to sue for defamation for a poor review.

Share, like, subscribe, donate if you can. The "AllOffroad 4x4 Adventures TV" channel could use a little love.

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Summary:

  1. Unethical Business Practices: Thermaltake’s refusal to sell replacement parts exemplifies a trend of companies prioritizing profit over customer satisfaction. This behavior alienates loyal customers and tarnishes brand reputation.
  2. Comfort vs. Cost: Despite the high price tag of the chair, its lack of comfort and repairability makes it less appealing than alternatives. This raises questions about consumer choices and brand trust.
  3. E-commerce Responsibilities: The claim that they can’t process part sales is misleading. E-commerce systems can easily handle transactions for replacement parts, indicating a lack of willingness to support customers.
  4. Customer Service Failures: The dismissive attitude of Thermaltake’s customer service demonstrates a failure to engage with customer feedback, further alienating users.
  5. Empowerment Through Right to Repair: Advocating for the right to repair fosters a culture where consumers feel empowered to maintain and own their products, countering planned obsolescence.
  6. Moral Business Conduct: The host emphasizes ethical practices in business, contrasting his values with companies that prioritize profits over accountability.
  7. Competitor Advantages: Brands like Herman Miller provide not just quality but also customer support and parts availability, proving that ethical practices can be financially beneficial.
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cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/17699965

I use this channel to post repair videos from Rossmann Repair Group Inc

I also discuss random things of interest to me. This is, and always will be, my personal variety show.

I teach Macbook component level logic board repair from a common sense, everyman's perspective. I try to make it seem viable, and entertaining. I also go over business concepts & philosophy that will be important to running & maintaining a sustainable, profitable business.


Summary

  1. The speaker expresses frustration with YouTube's decisions, feeling that the platform does not focus on improving the experience for content creators that viewers want to see.
  2. They mention a specific content creator who provides responsible firearm use and ownership content, which they believe is valuable.
  3. The speaker criticizes YouTube's new firearm policy, which could potentially lead to the removal of a significant portion of creators' content.
  4. They argue that YouTube should support and promote responsible firearm content instead of unfairly targeting it.
  5. The speaker discusses the issue of media companies not effectively moderating their comment sections, contrasting their own lack of resources with the financial capabilities of larger companies like ABC and CBS.
  6. The speaker criticizes YouTube for focusing on certain issues like firearm ownership instead of addressing persistent problems like sex bots and scamming ads.
  7. They emphasize the importance of finding ways to navigate these issues in the current digital landscape.
  8. The speaker expresses frustration about being scammed by someone named Mr. Roberts, who was recommended for investment.
  9. They question the motives behind certain policies on a website and express annoyance at the lack of viewership despite spending time editing videos.
  10. The speaker also mentions a comparison between Google's Anti-Trust lawyers and lawyers who do not understand an API.
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Short Summary

  1. The speaker discusses receiving a Samsung Gear S3 watch as a gift but facing compatibility issues with newer Samsung phones released after 2014.
  2. Samsung has stopped supporting the Gear S3 with newer phones due to software quality concerns, causing frustration among users.
  3. To make the watch work with newer phones, users have to download older versions of applications from random APK websites and go through a complicated setup process.
  4. The speaker highlights the importance of personal experiences in driving awareness and advocacy, urging people to care about issues like the right to repair.
  5. Users are expressing dissatisfaction and questioning Samsung's decision to render their previously functional devices obsolete.
  6. The speaker concludes the video by saying that's it for today and hopes the viewers have learned something.
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Summary

  1. The case in Singapore highlights the growing concern over the privacy implications of infotainment systems in cars. Law enforcement agencies tapping into these systems raises questions about potential misuse of personal data.
  2. The ruling in the US that allows automakers to collect and store text messages without consent is a concerning precedent. It shows that current privacy laws may not adequately protect individuals from data exploitation.
  3. The collection and sale of driving data by automakers in the US without consent is an invasion of privacy. It raises concerns about who has access to this data and how it could potentially be used.
  4. Strengthening consumer privacy laws is crucial to ensure that individuals have control over their personal data and are protected from its misuse. Stricter regulations are needed to prevent unauthorized access and use of private information.
  5. Balancing the need for law enforcement with individual privacy rights is a complex issue. It requires finding a middle ground that allows for effective crime prevention while respecting individuals’ privacy and ensuring data protection.
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Summary

  1. Spotify’s decision to discontinue Car Thing without offering any alternative solutions or support raises questions about their commitment to customer satisfaction. Customers who invested in the device and paid $90 are left without a functioning product.
  2. Car Thing was marketed as a way to enhance the in-car music streaming experience, but Spotify’s decision to discontinue it shows a lack of understanding of their customers’ needs and preferences.
  3. Spotify’s suggestion to dispose of Car Thing as e-waste instead of offering open-source solutions or repurposing options further highlights their disregard for the environment and their customers’ investment.
  4. This decision may lead to a decline in customer trust and loyalty towards Spotify. The lack of transparency and support for Car Thing reflects poorly on the company’s reputation and may result in customer churn.
  5. Customers who are dissatisfied with Spotify’s handling of Car Thing discontinuation can take action by filing chargebacks on their service payments. This can impact Spotify’s ability to process credit card payments and send a strong message to the company.
  6. The video also highlights the nostalgia for older music formats and the appreciation for physical media, suggesting that streaming services like Spotify may not always provide the same quality and ownership experience.
  7. Returning Car Thing as e-waste to Spotify’s corporate headquarters, as suggested by the video, can serve as a symbolic act of protest against the company’s decision and their lack of support for their own product.
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Summary

  1. Consumer electronics manufacturers like Apple and Samsung are creating fake repair programs to avoid passing right to repair legislation.
  2. Criticism of Apple's repair program for being a PR stunt and requiring access to customer data.
  3. Highlighting Samsung's self-repair program that sells parts as assemblies, making repair difficult and costly.
  4. Frustration expressed at the requirement to interrogate customers and collect personal data under these repair programs.
  5. Emphasis on the importance of consumer privacy and transparency in the repair process, mentioning the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
  6. Criticism of companies trying to avoid warranties based on unrelated issues and collecting customer data for advertising purposes.
  7. Strong advice against supporting CTIA and attending their events, as they lobby against the rights of repair shop owners and consumers.
  8. Promotion of their nonprofit repair preservation group, Repair We, which provides detailed repair guides for free.
  9. Emphasizing the importance of advocating for the best interests of repair shop owners and consumers, contrasting their approach with that of CTIA prioritizing financial gain over the repair industry.
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Summary

  1. The speaker discusses the issue of Cloud Home Smart Home Wi-Fi connected devices that require internet connection to function, raising concerns about privacy and security.
  2. Examples mentioned include a pricey baby monitor now requiring a subscription to use and a tankless water heater connecting to the internet for remote control, posing security risks like unauthorized access.
  3. The speaker emphasizes the unnecessary reliance on manufacturer servers for controlling household devices and the potential security vulnerabilities that come with it.
  4. They express frustration with the trend of connecting all home devices to the internet, arguing against the need for devices like water heaters and thermostats to be connected due to security risks and potential malicious actions.
  5. Recommendations include using open-source software like Home Assistant to control devices directly without relying on manufacturer servers.
  6. Emphasis is placed on pushing back against the culture of giving manufacturers control over hardware, software, and data.
  7. Warning against the potential risks of having all home devices connected to the internet, such as the possibility of someone sabotaging or manipulating them remotely.
  8. Highlighting the lack of awareness among people about security risks associated with vehicle systems, particularly General Motors vehicles, being used to collect and sell data to insurance companies.
  9. Stressing the importance of consumers being informed about such practices to push back against them and prevent them from becoming the norm.
  10. Additionally, the speaker showcases a watch received as a gift that charges itself through arm movement, expressing appreciation for the thoughtful gesture.
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Summary

  1. The speaker recalls receiving their first computer, a 286, from their mother's cousin's husband.
  2. They highlight unique features of the 286, such as storing files on the actual computer rather than a manufacturer's server.
  3. Concerns about data privacy and security, particularly in relation to Apple and Google's handling of user data, are discussed.
  4. The speaker criticizes manufacturers for discouraging independent repair shops and emphasizes the importance of consumer rights to repair their own devices.
  5. Frustration with double standards and fear-mongering tactics used by tech companies in lobbying against right to repair legislation is expressed.
  6. The importance of data privacy and security is discussed, emphasizing the risks of storing personal data on external servers controlled by companies like Apple and Google.
  7. Advocacy for individuals to take control of their electronic devices and data, suggesting that relying on external servers exposes users to potential mistakes and vulnerabilities.
  8. The speaker praises the decision to invest in developing secure photo software and encourages a shift towards self-hosting data to regain control over personal information.
  9. Criticism is directed towards manufacturers for compromising consumer rights and privacy, citing instances where authorized subcontractors accessed and shared sensitive customer data.
  10. The importance of accountability and the ability to apologize is emphasized, with Apple being criticized for not taking responsibility or acknowledging issues.
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Short Summary:

  1. Android ecosystem lacks good options for browsing through photos
  2. Options available are either low-end phones with micro SD card slot and poor camera or high-end phones with good camera but no micro SD card slot
  3. Some manufacturers offer a terabyte of storage, but at a high price
  4. Lack of micro SD card slot is done to sell cloud services and upsell on more storage
  5. Recommends self-hosted solution... for fast loading and rendering of photos with features like artificial intelligence to classify images and videos
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Short Summary

  1. Louis Rossmann discusses an article from The Guardian about ownership of movies and TV shows in the age of streaming services.
  2. The article addresses the intricacies of ownership in technically savvy fields that normal users may not be aware of.
  3. Purchasers of media are often treated worse than pirates, and may be viewed as second-class citizens or criminals.
  4. Companies may take away perpetual licenses and upcharge for 4K content.
  5. Netflix only allows viewing on smart TVs, which may spy on users.
  6. Sony and Amazon use revocable licenses and restrict access to purchased content.
  7. Vicky Russell spent $2,500 on media but was told she didn't actually own it and needed to purchase new hardware to access it.
  8. Terms of service state that purchased or rented content is only accessible through the service and may be lost if the account is terminated or suspended.
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A customer RMA'd their ROG Ally handheld console for a faulty joystick replacement - only to have Asus refuse warranty repair due to a tiny scratch on the top of the device.

Asus then invoiced the customer $200 to carry out the joystick repair outside of warranty, or have the handheld console returned to them in a disassembled state.

Pretty low from Asus in my opinion 🤦‍♂️ can't say I'm a fan of supporting a company who treats their customers like this.

Louis' video is related to other coverage on this by the Gamers Nexus channel, which covers this in much more detail.

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