Allegation: LG TVs said to record conversations and map the home network
In a video, the YouTube channel Gamers Nexus alleges that LG smart TVs running webOS can record private conversations even without a wake word and in standby. The sets are also said to collect their location, details of nearby Wi-Fi networks and the names of devices on the home network. According to the reports, Level1Techs and independent security researchers took part in the investigation; it has been covered since 8 September 2026. In a second video the authors say LG’s statement contradicts itself and is not backed by evidence. The reports we read mention no regulators or court proceedings.
Concerns the LG brand in the OLED TVs category, not just this model. The reports we read do not fully state which models and software versions were examined; the 2025 OLED G5 is named as an example. LG’s statement refers to LG smart TVs in general. Whether the 2026 series listed here are affected has not been established.
Manufacturer’s response
LG rejects the core of the allegations: its TVs do not continuously record or transmit conversations. Speech is converted to text only after a wake word or a press of the voice button on the remote; wake-word detection runs on the device, nothing is stored or transmitted if no wake word is detected, and results are not uploaded later. LG confirms that the TVs can recognise compatible devices and describes this as a connectivity function only. Information on nearby Wi-Fi access points may be used, where content recognition (ACR) is enabled, to estimate the approximate location; ACR is optional and off by default.
LG smart TVs do not continuously record or transmit users’ conversations.
Sources What Hi-Fi?GameStart3nNotebookcheck · As of 8 October 2026
Source quotes
In the original video, YouTube channel Gamers Nexus claimed that LG TVs are capable of recording private conversations even when no wake word has been spoken.What Hi-Fi?