California, the biggest state in the US when it comes to both population and the sheer volume of tech companies squeezed into its borders, has just passed the country’s most extreme right to repair bill in the US (via Ars Technica). It’s the third state to pass such a bill, but goes further than either Minnesota or New York in that it forces companies to support their products for longer. But while it will cover gaming PCs and laptops, games console manufacturers get a free pass.

There are exceptions, however, and it seems like games consoles are somehow exempt from this right to repair requirement. Guess someone’s been lobbying against the inclusion of consoles, eh? The bill itself talks specifically about an “electronic or appliance product” or just a “product”, but stipulates that doesn’t include a video game console.

“‘Video game console’ means a computing device, including its components and peripherals, that is primarily used by consumers for playing video games, such as a console machine, a handheld console device, or another device or system. ‘Video game console’ does not include a general or an all-purpose computer, which includes, but is not limited to, a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or cell phone.”

So, that means your Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch consoles are all seemingly exempt from having to offer long term support, but at least in the computing space your PC and laptop will be covered.

    • Pika
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      19 months ago

      game console for sure, as the rest of the have the capability as well but it’s general focus is gaming.

      • @QuaternionsRock@lemmy.world
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        69 months ago

        Can’t install a general computer OS on any other “console” out of the box though.

        I wouldn’t expect Valve to have a problem with conforming to right-to-repair laws anyway. I have a hard time imagining they’re taking a bath on hardware that you can completely remove their storefront from.

      • @Bluescluestoothpaste@sh.itjust.works
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        29 months ago

        But general focus isn’t a specific legal term is it? Like what about gaming laptops? Isn’t that the same thing? I haven’t read the law so idk if it creates that specificity.