BC Business
Online data privacy has been a growing concern over social media like Facebook and smartphone devices. Yet people are often unaware that their data is also being scooped up via their smart televisions, sometimes without their knowledge and permission. Samba TV has struck deals with manufacturers including Sony, Sharp, TCL and Philips to...
Online data privacy has been a growing concern over social media like Facebook and smartphone devices. Yet people are often unaware that their data is also being scooped up via their smart televisions, sometimes without their knowledge and permission. Samba TV has struck deals with manufacturers including Sony, Sharp, TCL and Philips to place its software on certain sets so every time people set up their TVs, a screen prompts them to enable Samba Interactive TV, saying it recommends shows and provides special offers “by cleverly recognizing onscreen content.” Once enabled, Samba TV can track nearly everything that appears on the TV, including networks, shows, ads, programs, even video games. The big draw for advertisers is that Samba TV can also identify other devices in the home that share the TV’s internet connection.