Smart TVs Use Automatic Content Recognition to Track Viewing Habits

Smart TVs from brands such as LG, Samsung, Sony and others employ Automatic Content Recognition, which takes frequent screen captures and gathers technical information like IP addresses and app usage. This data is processed into a fingerprint of viewing behavior and uploaded to the manufacturer, where it may be sold to data-brokers that combine it with other sources to build detailed consumer profiles. Companies claim the revenue from ACR helps keep television prices affordable, but privacy advocates argue the system is difficult to opt out of and often undisclosed.

State privacy regulations have led to court cases against large TV manufacturers, particularly in Texas. The article also provides step-by-step instructions for disabling ACR on various TV brands, though it warns that updates can reactivate tracking.