LG smart TVs found collecting extensive viewer data via AdSolutions ad unit
An investigation by YouTube channel Gamers Nexus found that LG smart TVs continuously gather user data—including search terms, audio recordings, payment details and screenshots—and send it to LG's ad division, Alfonso Inc. (LG AdSolutions). The company reports roughly 49 million LG smart TVs active in the US and 216 million worldwide, and the tracking reportedly includes Wi-Fi-based location data accurate to within about 10 meters.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The scale of data collection suggests smart TVs have become long-term revenue tools for manufacturers rather than one-time hardware sales, turning viewing habits and household details into ad-targeting fuel. Because this practice appears common across major TV brands, the findings could intensify scrutiny of smart-device privacy disclosures and prompt regulators or consumers to push for clearer opt-out controls.
- Gamers Nexus's investigation revealed LG TVs collect audio, search, payment and screenshot data.
- LG AdSolutions (Alfonso Inc.) manages this data across an estimated 216 million LG TVs globally.
- Location tracking via home Wi-Fi can reportedly pinpoint users within about 10 meters.
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro — If you're worried about your smart TV's built-in data collection, the fix is to stop using its native smart platform altogether. Plugging in a dedicated streaming box like the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro lets you disable your TV's smart features and control your apps and privacy settings independently, without ultra-sensitive ACR tracking baked into the TV's OS.
See NVIDIA Shield TV Pro on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: zdnet.com — Taylor Clemons, 2026-09-25
Published there as: “Your LG smart TV is constantly collecting your data – here’s how to stop it”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.