Framework Parts Power First Open Source Handheld
A YouTuber used parts from Framework's parts marketplace to create an open source version of Steam Deck. France's repair bonus saves 178k devices. Also: Oregon's Senate approves right to repair.
An enterprising modder and YouTuber by the name of Steven B has developed their own open-source handheld gaming console. What makes this unique? They made it using parts from a Framework laptop and a range of 3D printed parts. Steven B dubbed the console the “FrameDeck” - an obvious reference to the Steam Deck handheld gaming console on which it is based.
The device, which is still under development, uses a variety of salvaged parts including the mainboard and battery of a Framework 13 Laptop as well as a range of third party components like the Kailh Chocolate V2 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard Switch.
Projects like the FrameDeck embody a philosophy of circularity, offering users the opportunity to repurpose existing hardware: reducing e-waste and prolonging the lifespan of electronic devices.
The project, dubbed “The First Open Source Framework Powered Handheld“ has detailed documentation, code and instructions on GitHub, allows enthusiasts to build their own devices or modify them, embracing the community-driven, open source approach to development.
Gaming is one of the many battle grounds in the fight for a right to repair. Gaming consoles like the X-Box or Sony Playstation are notoriously difficult to repair, with manufacturers using digital rights management to prevent even simple repairs such as replacing failed optical drives.
A survey by iFixit of game console repair shops globally found 93% reported trouble repairing consoles with broken optical drives. More than half of shops have had a backlog of broken consoles that can’t be repaired due to manufacturer imposed impediments such as parts pairing. Despite that, gaming industry lobbyists have succeeded in getting consoles exempted from right to repair laws in states like California, Minnesota and New York.
A fixable future
There have been some signs of improvement. Steam Deck has recently started making parts and repair manuals available via iFixit.com. However the overall trend of repairability in gaming consoles, both new and old, is heading down. Just this week, Nintendo announced the cessation of repair services for the Nintendo 2DS, New Nintendo 3DS, and New Nintendo 3DS LL, citing the depletion of parts inventory. Sadly, this scenario is becoming the norm in the gaming industry and the broader tech landscape.
FrameDeck offers a glimpse of an alternative future, however: products that boast ease of repair and upgradability, coupled with open-source software that shields against manufacturer abandonment. In such a scenario, the specter of short product lifespans would diminish significantly. The FrameDeck, alongside similar initiatives, presents a compelling argument for an alternative trajectory in gaming—and technology at large.
Other News
The French have saved more than 178 000 electrical appliances using the Repair Bonus program
The French "Repair Bonus" program has saved 178,000 devices from landfills in one year, according to published reports. Launched in 2022, it subsidizes 25% of repair costs, up to 60 euros maximum. The most commonly repaired items include smartphones, washing machines, and dishwashers. 39% of respondents prefer repair over buying new due to the subsidy. The program will continue in 2024, expanding to cover electric shavers, epilators, hair straighteners, power tools, and scanners.Oregon Senate approves right to repair legislation The Oregon Senate on Tuesday voted 25-5 to pass Senate Bill 1596, a “right to repair” bill sponsored by Sen. Janeen Sollman that requires manufacturers to offer tools, parts, devices and documentation needed to repair electronic devices at a “fair cost” and on “reasonable” terms. The bill now heads to the Oregon House of Representatives for consideration. If approved there, it would go to Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s desk.
What’s the latest on Right to Repair in the EU? And what it means for the UK
The recent EU legislation on Right to Repair marks significant progress for consumer rights, focusing on ensuring products are repairable. The legislation goes beyond simply mandating design requirements for products, focusing on obligations for manufacturers and sellers to try to ensure that consumers actually can get their products repaired. Among other things, the legal guarantee of repaired products was extended by 12 months, incentivizing repair over replacement.
Proposed Iowa bill aims to streamline wheelchair repairs for individuals with disabilities, addressing concerns about lengthy wait times and bureaucratic hurdles under Iowa's privatized Medicaid system (contracting out services rather than having the government manage them). This privatized system has faced criticism for complicating the process compared to the formerly state-operated Medicaid system.
Under pressure from manufacturers, lawmakers weaken bill to establish farmers’ right to fix their own equipment
After pressure from the tractor lobby, West Virginia lawmakers modified a bill aimed at establishing farmers' right to repair their equipment and weakening the planned protections for farmers. The original version of SB 306 would have required manufacturers to provide parts and tools for owners and repair shops, akin to "right to repair" bills in other states. The amendments stripped out coverage for lawn, garden, and forestry equipment, reflecting differing industry concerns. The revised bill is yet to reach the Senate floor, with potential further revisions and review by the Finance Committee.Apple has officially announced the removal of web apps (PWAs), which are progressive web applications that offer app-like experiences through web browsers, from the Home Screen in the EU to (maliciously) comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The move is being criticized for circumventing fair competition and inflicting damage on both developers and users, prompting concerns about Apple's monopolistic practices and its disregard for user experience and regulatory compliance.
After a recent privacy summit in Los Angeles, it's been uncovered that fines for breaching data privacy laws could be on the horizon for tech companies. The discussions at the event centered around the possibility of substantial fines for breaking the law, with regulators emphasizing enforcement priorities such as adhering to privacy notices, responding to CCPA requests, and respecting deletion rights. Additionally, regulatory strategies like injunctions and administrative fines were highlighted by California privacy regulators.
The drawbacks of purchasing low-cost bikes from retailers like Kmart is leading to more bikes getting trashed compared to more costly (but repairable) bikes.
Entropy undermines the feasibility of endless recycling, says
, emphasizing that all technological processes inherently contribute to entropy increase, suggesting a shift towards reusing and repurposing products as a more effective approach. Repairing products instead of discarding will help to conserve resources, minimize energy consumption, and reduce waste, thereby contributing to overall entropy reduction in the environment.If the term circular economy is just dumping waste into other parts of the world to be “re-used,” then it is a meaningless concept. The adverse effects of Western countries' donating second-hand clothing to African nations is such an example. These donations that might make consumers feel good about not trashing their clothes ultimately disrupts local markets, displaces environmental pollution, and leaves no accountability for the fashion brands producing the clothing.
My guess on the next term to become devoid of any meaning? slow-fashion