I have been using Logitech peripherals for years. Logitech gear always just worked.

Now they demand internet accounts to use the features of the keyboard and mouse that I purchased. WTF?

Not only that, have to use wide-open-to-snooping Chrome to adjust the settings. You cannot adjust/use your mouse and keyboard if you just use Firefox.

This only makes sense if they are planning (or are already) tracking my every move online to sell to advertisers or spooks.

What are the good options?

Also, if anybody sees how these changes could be benign, please let me know.

EDIT:

By popular demand:

The keyboard I bought that started this journey: MX Keys S

The key feature that first demanded cloud access: Swithing between computers, now it is requires it to adjust the receivers. I have both a Bolt and a Unifying receiver.

Mouse (actually a trackball) that now is requesting that I use a Chrome Browser to adjust it: M570

Software:
The Logi SetPoint Settings I open from Windows now requires you to log into your Logitech account to make changes to your Unifying or 2.4 ghz usb receiver. This link takes you to a screen that says Logi Web Connect. It does not work unless you use the latest version of Chrome, Edge, & Opera, but reccomends Chrome for the best experience.

Logitech + used to require this to enable options, but I don’t see it on my Windows computer anymore. It is still on my Mac, but upon opening it to confirm for this message, it seems to be announcing that it is now able to incorporate AI into everything I type. (ugggh)

    • @wjrii
      3•3 months ago

      I use RP2040’s for all my homemade boards. Deeply satisfying, and one of the few DIY projects where you can come away feeling like you’ve got something absolutely as usable as a commercial offering.

      • @[email protected]
        2•3 months ago

        I’m keen to make a handwired macro board, but the learning curve of programming of QMK from scratch is not something I’m prepared to deal with right now.

        • @wjrii
          3•3 months ago

          I use KMK, which doesn’t require compiling, but instead uses human readable Python, and now there is POG, which I’ve used on my last two and runs you through the process.

    • JackbyDevEnglish
      2•3 months ago

      I’ve had a kit for a gherkin for years but my soldering skills suck. It might be that my iron doesn’t get to the correct temp though. I have no idea. Every time I’ve soldered stuff it feels random what’s happening. It makes me wonder if the tip is not at a consistent temperature.