Many smart TVs today come with a feature that can track what you are watching, often without you realising it. This technology, called Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), works by analysing audio and video on your screen to identify content.
ACR can recognise shows from streaming apps, cable boxes, or even devices connected through HDMI. It then turns this into data about your viewing habits, which companies may use to recommend content or show targeted ads.
The concern is that this feature is often switched on by default, and users may not be fully aware of it. In some cases, the collected data can also be shared with third parties.
While ACR can improve recommendations, experts warn that it raises serious privacy questions. Users are advised to check their TV settings and turn off tracking options if they want more control over their data.
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