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from the internet-of-things-you-don't-actually-own dept.
Peloton treadmill owners will be able to run again without a subscription:
After a spate of accidents on its Tread+ treadmill, Peloton temporarily moved the basic running mode of Tread+ behind a paywall so non-authorized users couldn't gain access. Now, all users will be able to use the "Just Run" feature without a subscription [...]
[...] after several reports of injuries and one death. The company subsequently released a software update that required a passcode to use the basic running mode, but the feature was only available to subscribers.
[...] The Tread Lock feature locks the device if you haven't used the treadmill in 45 seconds and aren't in a class. You then need to input a four-digit code before it can be used again.
[...] While the update was inconvenient for non-subscribers who purchased the $4,000+ devices, Peloton did make it possible to do basic running without paying.
Putting the primary function of an expensive product behind a paywall is a way to prevent accidents.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Friday August 06 2021, @08:25PM
I don't have a treadmill, but I do have an elliptical machine. I bought it because I live in central Texas, so running outside is very uncomfortable (to outright dangerous) for much of the day much of the year. With it inside, I don't have to worry about the weather when I want my cardio.
Plus, well, elliptical is lower impact that running, but that's irrelevant to your complaint.