Sellers in the Netherlands are now required to provide software updates for various products, such as devices and software.
This was previously a directive from the European Union, but since April 27 it has also been incorporated into Dutch law. How long sellers have to keep providing updates depends on the product.
On the website of the national government you read that sellers are now “legally required to keep digital devices and services working and secure”. Think of smart TVs and watches, printers, cameras and baby monitors. The same goes for “games or apps and for streaming services”.
Based on proportionality
It is not clear how long the various products must be supported. A manufacturer bases that “on the basis of proportionality”. By this the government means “what is reasonable for the consumer”. If you buy a digital game on a smartphone, you should not expect the same support as with a washing machine or television.
In addition, there is a policy change with regard to the burden of proof. Previously, manufacturers had to prove that their product worked for the first six months after purchasing a product, but now that is the first twelve months. Then it’s up to the consumer.
This law was introduced at the end of 2019 and was passed in February. On April 19, the Senate approved.
