Did you get a new TV for Christmas? Maybe you’re considering getting a new one for the Superbowl? Whenever you make your next TV purchase, keep in mind the features that are now associated with TVs. The Texas attorney general is concerned that consumers are unaware of the nature of what is being captured along with how often. That’s right, your TV is likely watching what you watch. Let’s get into it.
TV watches what I watch? How can that be?
Many newer TVs have automatic content recognition (ACR), which allows TV companies to keep tabs on what is displaying on your screen. Essentially, the companies can capture a snapshot of what is showing on your television and what is playing through the speakers. This can happen up to every 500 milliseconds or about 120 times a minute. These images are coded and the data is sent to the TV manufacturer.
Is this just for live TV and streaming apps?
No, this includes anything displayed on your TV. If you connect an external device like a DVR or laptop, those images can be captured as well.
Thats a lot of images! Why would TV companies want to do that?
The companies process this data to identify what you are watching and where you are in the program. Like a lot of other companies that capture your activities, they build a profile on you to better advertise to you.
How do I turn it off?
ZDNet has some instructions for Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL, and other Roku TVs.
How is everyone ok with this?
My guess is most people don’t know about ACR or that this much information is being captured about their viewing habits. However, the Texas Attorney General’s office is suing several TV makers for “unlawful” collection of data. They also have a temporary restraining order to stop some of this collection from one company, Hisense.
Personally, I’ve gone on my TV to check out the privacy settings. Turning them off is pretty simple, if you know where to look.
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