Rivian says “fat finger” caused software update to brick infotainment systems, physical servicing may be required::Today’s cars are more like computers on wheels, and even a seemingly routine software update can lead to unexpected consequences. Rivian unfortunately experienced a “fat finger” mishap with their latest software update, bricking infotainment systems […]
“According to Rivian the glitch occurred when the wrong build with incorrect security certificates was inadvertently sent out. This error resulted in bricking the infotainment systems of an unknown number of vehicles.”
I always thought that ‘fat finger’ revered to having fingers that are too big for buttons, but I guess it means sending out wrong software versions.
Fat finger in this context typically means that the person knew what they wanted to do, but typed the wrong thing. Their “fat finger” hit the wrong button. Possible that they wanted certificate 123 in the build, but they accidentally typed 133, or something like that.
This. And the guy who did it was fat.
I think it’s also worth noting that “security certificates” in this context are almost certainly there for the purpose of locking the system away from modification by the vehicle owner, which means they weren’t necessary (and indeed, ought to be prohibited by law) to begin with.
Rivian was hoist on their own consumer-hostile petard.