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Ever since their introduction, Chromebooks have become a popular choice among parents who want to give their kids the basic functionalities of a laptop without having to splurge on expensive Windows computers. However, a new report from the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) reveals that despite Google discontinuing support for several Chromebook models that reached their automatic update expiration (AUE) date in June and over the summer, major online stores, including Amazon and Walmart, continue to list these expired Chromebooks.
Lucas Rockett Gutterman, the US PIRG’s Designed to Last director, expressed his concerns that companies are taking advantage of consumers, including parents and teachers, buying back-to-school laptops who are often unaware of the specific details. Moreover, this situation also raises questions about the accountability of online marketplaces like Amazon, as they are offering these expired Chromebooks at a significant discount. For instance, the Acer Chromebook 11, one of the models on the expired list, is currently available for as low as $64.95.
“Parents and teachers buying back-to-school laptops don’t expect devices to have a ‘death date,’ and sellers don’t advertise the lack of support. It’s absurd that a new laptop, with all the features students need to do basic school work, is already unsupported. Students, and the planet, deserve better,” said Gutterman.
What can Google do?
In a letter to Google, the PIRG has urged the company to take responsibility and “double the life of Chromebooks” by providing much-needed technical support. This is because such a step would not only save valuable money for parents and schools but also help prevent an alarming amount of electronic waste from filling landfills.
However, until Google or marketplaces like Amazon take action, it becomes essential for consumers to exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making tech purchases.
“Retailers should include support end-of-life dates for all tech products that they sell, but Chromebooks are particularly important to indicate because support ends after an expiration date rather than due to hardware requirements,” said Gutterman.
