🔧 Right to Repair – Should users have full control over their devices?

Hayden from NZ IT Lab

🔧 Right to Repair – Should users have full control over their devices?

Over the past few years, the Right to Repair movement has gained serious momentum. At its core, it’s about giving consumers the ability to fix their own devices – from smartphones and laptops to tractors and medical equipment – without being locked into manufacturer-approved repair options.

But this raises big questions:

Should manufacturers be required to provide repair manuals, tools, and spare parts?

Does opening up devices risk security breaches and data privacy issues?

Or is it about extending product lifespans, reducing e-waste, and empowering users to take ownership of what they buy?


For many, it’s about control and sustainability. We live in a world where devices are often expensive and difficult (or impossible) to repair. This fuels a throwaway culture, increasing costs for consumers and harming the environment.

On the other hand, companies argue that unauthorized repairs could impact product safety, brand reputation, and even user security.

👉 Where should the line be drawn? Should we, as consumers, have the unrestricted right to repair what we own, or should manufacturers maintain some level of control?

💬 What’s your take – is Right to Repair a step toward a more sustainable future, or does it open up bigger risks?

hashtag#RightToRepair hashtag#Sustainability hashtag#TechDebate hashtag#ConsumerRights hashtag#Innovation