Echelon Update Disables Smart Gym Equipment’s Offline Features
▼ Summary
– A firmware update for Echelon smart gym equipment now requires an Internet connection to function, disabling key offline features.
– Without server access, machines become “bricked,” losing Bluetooth pairing, manual workouts, and real-time metrics.
– Users can no longer sync data with third-party apps like QZ or view exercise metrics offline.
– The update risks rendering equipment unusable if Echelon shuts down, as functionality depends on its servers.
– The developer of QZ urged Echelon to allow encrypted local data transfer to devices without Internet reliance.
A recent firmware update from Echelon has rendered key offline features useless on its smart gym equipment, leaving users frustrated and locked out of basic functionality without an internet connection. The controversial update forces machines to authenticate with Echelon’s servers before allowing access to metrics, workouts, or Bluetooth pairing, effectively bricking the devices if they can’t connect.
Roberto Viola, developer of the popular QZ (qdomyos-zwift) app, which bridges Echelon machines to platforms like Peloton and Strava, confirmed the issue in a blog post. According to reports, affected users can no longer sync data with third-party apps or even view basic workout stats offline. The machines now require an active Echelon app session and a stable internet connection to function fully.
The update introduces a server-dependent authentication system, where the equipment must receive a temporary unlock key from Echelon’s servers during startup. Without this handshake, the device becomes unusable, no manual workouts, no Bluetooth connectivity, and no access to performance metrics. This change raises concerns about long-term usability, especially if Echelon’s services were ever discontinued.
Viola first noticed disruptions late last year when treadmill users reported issues with QZ. The problem escalated this month as Echelon bikes received the same restrictive firmware update. Despite requests for clarification, Echelon has remained silent on the matter.
In his blog, Viola argued that customers who purchased the hardware should retain control over its functionality, regardless of whether they subscribe to Echelon’s services. He proposed a compromise: allowing encrypted data transmission to local devices like phones or tablets without mandatory internet checks.
The move highlights a growing trend of companies locking down hardware post-purchase, prioritizing service revenue over user autonomy. While not all Echelon owners rely on third-party apps like QZ, the loss of offline capabilities could alienate those who prefer flexibility in their fitness routines. For now, affected users face an unwelcome choice, stay online or lose access to their equipment’s core features.
(Source: Ars Technica)
