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TV MAKERS CAUGHT TRACKING USERS, NOT JUST LG

INDUSTRY DESK1 MIN READ
SAT, SEP 19, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

A detailed investigation revealed that smart TVs from major manufacturers collect extensive user data, including audio recordings and viewing habits, even when devices appear powered off. The practice extends across the industry, not limited to LG.

Gamers Nexus published a two-hour investigation detailing how LG TVs continuously monitor user activity and store audio data without explicit consent. The findings expose broader industry practices: smart TVs can track what you watch, record audio even in standby mode, and potentially be compromised for remote surveillance. The revelations have sparked significant backlash from TV owners and tech enthusiasts. While LG has become the focal point of criticism, security experts emphasize this represents a systemic issue across the TV manufacturing sector. Major TV brands have long collected viewing data for advertising purposes, but the extent of audio recording capabilities and the persistence of monitoring during supposedly inactive states raise serious privacy concerns. Users have limited visibility into what data is collected and how it's used. The incident highlights growing tensions between connected device functionality and consumer privacy expectations. As smart home technology becomes standard, manufacturers face mounting pressure to increase transparency around data collection practices.

■ SOURCES

The Verge

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

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