Feature ransom is a form of rights stripping in which core functionality of a product is restricted or removed unless users accept new terms, conditions, or payments. The term describes cases where a device or service remains usable only if the user agrees to conditions introduced after purchase.
Impact
Feature ransom converts a one-time purchase into an ongoing negotiation: the consumer's hardware or software remains in their hands, but its usefulness becomes conditional on the vendor's later decisions. Cases documented on this wiki include vendors introducing mandatory account systems, moving previously free features behind subscriptions, or requiring acceptance of new arbitration terms to keep using a product.[1][2]
Examples
Activision Blizzard account lock
- Main article: Activision Blizzard account lock and forced arbitration
Activision Blizzard locked game features behind an account linking requirement paired with new arbitration terms.
Bambu Lab Authorization Control System
- Main article: Bambu Lab Authorization Control System
In January 2026, Bambu Lab rolled out a firmware update introducing an Authorization Control System that requires logging in with a Bambu Lab account to control affected 3D printers, ending unauthenticated local network control.[3]
Miku charges subscription for previously free features
- Main article: Miku charges subscription for previously free features
After the Miku baby monitor vendor's acquisition, features that had shipped free were moved behind a monthly subscription.[4]
Discord's reinforcement of forced arbitration
- Main article: Discord
Discord reinforced its forced arbitration terms in September 2025, limiting users' ability to litigate disputes.
References
- ↑ "Firmware Update Introducing New Authorization Control System". Bambu Lab Blog. 2026-01-16. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ "$400 baby monitor vendor demands monthly subscription". The Register. 2023-10-06. Archived from the original on 4 Oct 2026. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ "Firmware Update Introducing New Authorization Control System". Bambu Lab Blog. 2026-01-16. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ "$400 baby monitor vendor demands monthly subscription". The Register. 2023-10-06. Archived from the original on 4 Oct 2026. Retrieved 2026-10-22.