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iFixIt calls BMW’s new anti-consumer security screws 'a logo-shaped middle finger to right to repair,' Adafruit 3D prints a solution — BMW's connector reverse engineered using patent filing as a design blueprint

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Tom's Hardware

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AI Generated

BMW has patented a new fastener design inspired by its logo, which has raised concerns about right-to-repair restrictions. iFixIt criticizes the move as anti-consumer, while Adafruit has 3D printed a solution to replicate the connector. Adafruit believes BMW's patent may not be solid due to its cosmetic nature, and they have successfully created functional replicas. Despite not sharing the files, others have already uploaded 3D printable versions in case BMW implements the new fastener in its vehicles.

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