LG Clarifies Smart TV Voice Features and Privacy Controls

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 LG Electronics has clarified how its smart Televisions (TVs) process voice interactions and manage user privacy, following some recent media reports that may have created misconceptions about the operation of its smart TV features.

The company has said the claims in recent online commentary conflate distinct technologies and do not accurately reflect how its Smart TVs operate.

LG smart TVs do not continuously record or transmit ambient conversations. Voice data is processed only when the user presses and holds the voice button on the remote or when a wake word, such as “Hi LG” is recognised after the Far-Field Voice Recognition feature has been manually activated.

When enabled, wake-word detection is processed locally on the TV. If the wake word is not detected, the audio is immediately deleted and is not transmitted to LG servers. In standby mode, the TV monitors for a wake word only where the Far-Field feature has previously been enabled.

In addition, LG also confirms that:

• Users can manage privacy and consent preferences directly through their TV settings.

• Compatible devices on the same network may be identified to support connectivity, content sharing and smart home features.

• LG continuously monitors its platforms and works with independent security experts to identify vulnerabilities and provide timely security updates.

• LG is committed to transparent privacy practices and does not use deceptive design practices to influence users’ consent choices.

The clarification comes as televisions increasingly function as connected computing devices that allow users to stream content, search by voice, connect smartphones and other devices, access applications and receive personalised recommendations and advertising.

LG said the availability of individual features, data practices and privacy controls can vary according to the television model, software version, market and services selected by the user.

The company encouraged consumers to review the privacy and consent settings available on their specific LG Smart TV and to consult LG’s applicable privacy policies to understand how information associated with particular services is processed.

“Protecting user privacy is a fundamental principle in the design and operation of LG products and services,” said LG. “We remain committed to transparency, responsible data practices and providing customers with clear information and meaningful control over their privacy settings.”