Smart TV manufacturers collect viewer data for revenue

Smart televisions often collect data regarding user viewing habits as a primary revenue stream for manufacturers. This practice, frequently utilizing Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), allows companies to offer more affordable hardware in exchange for consumer data.

Major companies including LG, Roku, and Walmart are involved in these data ecosystems. Consumers often face difficulties opting out due to complex consent language, obscure settings, or the potential loss of smart functionalities. While users can mitigate tracking by adjusting privacy settings or disconnecting the device from the internet, experts suggest that long-term solutions may require clearer industry standards and regulatory intervention.