Connected products often begin with a useful remote control and end with an account, a subscription, a stream of notifications, and uncertainty about what happens when the service closes.
Stillform products use software, but their core purpose never depends on our servers. The light still turns on. The dial still controls a paired device. The dock still delivers power.
Accounts are optional. Scenes and preferences are stored on the product. Bluetooth setup happens directly between nearby devices. Firmware files remain available for manual installation, with release notes that explain what changed.
Cloud access is useful for teams managing many rooms, but it is an additional layer rather than the foundation of ordinary use.
Its primary function and physical controls must remain available without an account or internet connection.
The setting must name the data, recipient, purpose, and retention period before consent is given.
Signed firmware files and release notes must remain available for direct download and manual installation.
Connected additions should not create a permanent dependency that prevents future local operation or repair.
Stillform products keep their essential functions local, legible, and available for the life of the object.