Hi folks and greetings for all the TP-Link representative.
I hope that this post can raise awareness about this situation that, in my opinion, is a big issue.

I'll shout only once FIRMWARE PUBLICATION ON SUPPORT WEBSITE MUST BE DELIVERED!.

I'm currently managing some AP and routers, including but not limited to Archer C6 v4 and extender RE500X.

At this date, both have an "updated" firmware, according to TP link "cloud ap".

1.2.0 Build 20250815 Rel. 43943 for RE500X. This was available yesterday evening (GMT+1)

1.15.0 Build 250729  Rel.63726n (4555) for Archer C6 v4. This was available 

Neither versions today can be found as standalone download, I was able to update the devices only via the app.

I searched into several "national TP Link sites", no way to find these. For V2.6 of RE500X, there's no firmware download section.

If TP link in global site at least won't provide available download for every device distributed globally, I promise i'll actively deliver this information to any possible media outlet for raise awareness of this lock-in: for update a device the app and the registration should not be necessary, nor using the auto update feature into the device. Please, I love that possibility but I believe this should be an option, not the only way.

The devices are not in loan, are payed full price from the customers.

Best wishes for all the fellows and have a nice day for every TP-Link representative.