About this video

• Video Title: OnePlus can now permanently destroy your phone with a software update
• Channel: Louis Rossmann
• Speakers: Louis Rossmann
• Duration: 00:03:24

Overview

This video discusses a concerning development with OnePlus phones where a software update can permanently disable the device by blowing hardware fuses. Louis Rossmann criticizes this practice, highlighting how it prevents users from installing alternative operating systems or downgrading, effectively bricking the phone and forcing users to rely on the manufacturer for costly repairs. He contrasts this with OnePlus's past reputation for supporting user customization and expresses disappointment in their current anti-consumer approach.

Key takeaways

• Bricking by Software Update: OnePlus devices can be permanently rendered inoperable ("bricked") by a software update if a user attempts to downgrade after upgrading.
• Hardware Fuses: This bricking is caused by hardware fuses within the processor that are "blown" by the software update. Once blown, the phone cannot revert to an older operating system.
• Loss of User Control: This practice removes the user's ability to choose or change the operating system on their device, which is a departure from the principles of ownership and control over purchased hardware.
• Contrast with Past Practices: The video contrasts this with OnePlus's earlier history of shipping phones with custom ROMs like CyanogenMod, which was praised by power users for enabling greater customization.
• Criticism of Anti-Consumer Behavior: Rossmann strongly criticizes OnePlus for this "anti-ownership" practice, suggesting it's worse than Apple's approach and urging users to support consumer rights organizations like the Consumer Right Wiki.