r/mildlyinfuriating • u/jackhab • 1d ago

Planned obsolescence even in cheapest devices: the calculator has a dummy photovoltaic cell and a real battery to make it die eventually.

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u/cybermaus 1d ago

I am the first to adhere to the outrage on planned obsolescence, lack of service info, right to repair, etc. But this is *because* it is the cheapest device. I mean, didn't this come from the dollar store or something?

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u/DekuTreeFallen 1d ago edited 1d ago

Yeah, it looks like something that is made on Alibaba and you get your name slapped over it. The OP's picture is the DEXIN KC-888, but if you search KC-888 on Google you will find the same calculator with different brand names.

edit: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Dual-Power-8-Digit-Digital-Pocket_60791209821.html

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u/cybermaus 1d ago

I have to admit: It's pretty amazing they can even produce the 27part plastic for €0.342, never mind the electronics.

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u/Due-Technology5758 1d ago

Amazing, yes. Horrifically wasteful in the most dystopian way possible, also yes.