Apple TV Box More Private Than Smart TV

Smart TVs are notorious for compromising user privacy. Most of them track everything you watch even content played through HDMI ports and share that data with third parties like advertisers and analytics companies. In this context, many suggest disconnecting your smart TV from the internet and using a dedicated streaming device like the Apple TV instead. While not perfect, the Apple TV is a much more privacy-conscious option than most smart TVs.

One key difference lies in Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology, which is widely used in smart TVs. ACR functions similarly to Shazam but for TV shows, movies, and even video games. It runs in the background, tracking what you’re watching or playing, and then sells that data to third parties. Companies like Inscape and Samba openly promote these practices. This kind of surveillance happens regardless of whether you’re using an app or an HDMI input. The Apple TV does not use ACR, meaning it doesn’t log your viewing habits within apps.

That said, Apple does collect some data , though significantly less than other platforms. During setup, the Apple TV gives users the option to opt out of sharing analytics with Apple. Voice commands via Siri are processed on Apple’s servers, but due to a class-action lawsuit, they no longer store voice recordings unless explicitly permitted by the user. Additionally, Apple gives users granular control over what data apps can access—like location, photos, or HomeKit information—via permission prompts.

The Apple TV app, which acts as a central hub for streaming services, tracks what you watch for recommendations and targeted ads. Users can disable this tracking in settings. The app also shares non-personal data, such as viewing habits and demographic info, with strategic partners—standard practice among streaming services.

If you’re looking for a completely private alternative, options are limited. You could build a media center using a computer or Raspberry Pi running a privacy-focused OS and browser, but that comes with usability trade-offs, especially when trying to navigate with just a remote.

In conclusion, if your goal is to stream content easily while preserving your privacy, the Apple TV is currently one of the best off-the-shelf solutions available.