Devices

Each guide explains what the device does, what information it sends and which settings to check.

9 devices

Baby monitorCarries sound, and often a picture, from a child's room. Depending on the model, the connection may go to a separate receiver, a local app or the manufacturer's service.
Modem and routerA modem or fibre terminal brings the operator's connection to a router, which shares it with devices in the home. The jobs may use separate devices or one combined device.
Robot vacuumCleans, and draws a map of your home while it does it. The map is what lets it clean one room at a time and find its way back to its dock.
Security cameraFilms a yard or room and shows the picture on your phone. Where recordings are stored and how the picture travels depend on the model and its settings.
Smart bulbTurns the light on and off and dims it, from an app or on a timer. It connects either straight to the network or through a separate bridge. Control may be local or use the manufacturer's service, depending on the model.
Smart lockOpens and locks the door from an app, with a code, or over a short-range connection. The access rights and opening records may travel straight to the phone or through the manufacturer's service, depending on the model.
Smart plugSwitches power on and off from an app or on a timer. Some models also measure electricity use. Where those readings are stored depends on the model and settings.
Smart speakerListens for a wake word and processes a command when it thinks it heard one. Audio processing and storage depend on the manufacturer and account settings.
Smart TVShows a picture and is connected to the network at the same time. The connection brings the streaming services with it and may send viewing data to a service or the manufacturer.

Checked 2 September 2026