I have been working in the embedded world for some time. What worries me is that even new embedded systems come with ancient kernels and stdlibs, most of which won't be y2k38 compatible.

Many of these devices will still be operating in 2038, but long forgotten. Think HVAC control systems, kitchen appliances, security systems, etc. Cars, trains, information signs, traffic lights, many of these public infrastructure systems will fail.

And these systems are very, very hard to update, if possible at all. We'll be having a lot of e-waste in 2038.