Logitech decries subscription-based forever mouse that “is not an actual or planned product but a peek into provocative internal thinking on future possibilities”

Logitech decries subscription-based forever mouse that "is not an actual or planned product but a peek into provocative internal thinking on future possibilities"

What you need to know

  • Logitech’s CEO discussed the concept of a “forever mouse” that requires a paid subscription to receive software updates recently.
  • The comments drew heavy criticism from many across the web.
  • Logitech has since clarified that the forever mouse is “not an actual or planned product.”
  • Criticism continues, as many were more upset at the concept of a subscription-based mouse than if Logitech had made one already.

As a seasoned tech analyst with over two decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that Logitech’s foray into the realm of the “forever mouse” has left me scratching my head in bewilderment. It’s not every day that a major tech company contemplates such an outlandish concept as a subscription-based mouse, especially one that would require regular payments for software updates.


Hanneke Faber, CEO of Logitech, has sparked debate recently by proposing the idea of a “continuous mouse” that would necessitate a subscription for software updates. When questioned about this subscription-based mouse, Faber drew an analogy to a high-end watch like Rolex, causing some to perceive her as disconnected from Logitech’s customer base, as the comparison may not resonate well with the average consumer.

After the interview with The Verge, Logitech has made it clear that they have no intentions of producing a ‘forever’ mouse, which was discussed as a concept rather than a real or upcoming product. They explained this to The Verge and other media outlets. In essence, their internal team had been brainstorming potential ideas for more eco-friendly consumer electronics, but the mouse in question is not one of those products.

Sharing the idea openly sparked quite a reaction, with many people accusing the Logitech CEO of making an obvious but controversial statement. Notably, the latest announcement fails to tackle the main concerns surrounding the idea of a subscription-based mouse model.

Missing the point

Logitech decries subscription-based forever mouse that "is not an actual or planned product but a peek into provocative internal thinking on future possibilities"

In simpler terms, it seems clear that Logitech misunderstood the issue when they proposed a subscription-based mouse model. It wasn’t about whether or not Logitech physically produced the mouse; rather, it was the very concept that raised concerns among users. The problem lies not in the fact that Logitech might have created such a mouse, but that they even entertained the idea in the first place.

It’s absurd on a fundamental level to expect a computer mouse, an item known for its longevity, to need a subscription for software updates that come with a price tag. This approach, at its worst, exemplifies corporate greed and intentionally shortening a product’s life span (planned obsolescence). At best, it shows a lack of understanding by the decision-maker about their company’s customer base.

Logitech might have emphasized the concept of their mouse being long-lasting, similar to how luxury brands advertise items built to last a lifetime. For instance, we own a sturdy kitchen mixer that my wife and I frequently tease will be passed down as an heirloom due to its durability.

As a tech enthusiast, I get the allure of exploring fresh income sources, but in this instance, Logitech seems to have strayed quite far from the target. If Logitech is genuinely concerned about environmental sustainability and reducing e-waste, they ought to prioritize collaborations with iFixit instead. By offering repair solutions for their accessories, we can extend their lifespan, making it possible for consumers to keep using their Logitech gear forever, or at the very least, for a significantly longer time. This approach would align more closely with their sustainability goals.

Read More

2024-08-07 15:39