Smart TV

Shows 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.

Smart television on two feet, with a remote control alongside it.

Possible data flows

The exact route depends on the model and its settings. These are common paths, not a claim that every device sends every item listed.

  1. From

    Television

    Data

    Content-recognition data, if the model has the feature and it is enabled

    To

    The manufacturer's server

  2. From

    Television

    Data

    Account and viewing data while you use the service's app

    To

    Streaming service

  3. From

    Television

    Data

    Recognition data derived from HDMI pictures on supported models, if the feature is enabled

    To

    The manufacturer's server

What to know about this device

In a study of Samsung and LG models, the televisions sent content-recognition data to the manufacturer. The measured recognition also covered pictures shown through an HDMI connection.

The setting’s name and location vary by manufacturer. Look for a setting about content recognition or the collection of viewing data.

The TV may recognise HDMI content

If content recognition is enabled, a television may also identify pictures from a games console or another device connected by HDMI. Availability and implementation depend on the model.

Update support affects the TV’s useful life

Before buying, check how long the manufacturer will provide updates. The support period affects how long the television should remain online.

Settings to check

Check these during setup. Later, make sure device updates continue and the settings still match how you use the device.

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