Lots of modern appliances connect to the Internet, have multiple computers inside that need updates, maintenance, maybe subscription payments, and that need to phone home everything they see, hear and do.

Huh, why is that? Admittedly, I only own older appliances, but somehow they don't require updates.

Subscription payments? For household devices you own?

I suspect "phoning home" is a good incentive for manufacturers, but why would anyone buy such a device then?

Not buying them means usually having a good understanding what "smart" means, or why having an app as a requirement is silly. The mean consumer has no idea what any of that means, they sometimes even lack the technical vocabulary needed to put into words what annoys them.

Dunno, but welcome to the world post-IOT.

You've apparently been off the web and out of stores for over a decade. Home Depot sells a bluetooth-connected shower head (just the head - it doesn't turn the water on). There are smart thermostats that are wifi connected so you can change the temperature of your house from anywhere in the world... for reasons...

You're right, I'm trying hard to practice digital detox as much as I can. Unfortunately, for job and family reasons I cannot give up an internet connection at home, but I have never owned a mobile phone in my life.

It often feels strange when I peak out my head into the real world as it exists today.