Marketing company Cox Media Group’s (CMG) advertising team has claimed that they listen to customers through embedded microphones in their smartphones, smart TVs, and other devices to collect data and provide targeted ads.
In a document written by Cox’s vice president of digital strategy, it is stated that “our phones are listening to us” and CMG has capabilities that can be used as a business advantage. The company refers to this practice as “Active Listening” and claims to be able to identify specific areas within a 10-20 mile radius where businesses want to grow and then notify them in real time when someone within that area is interested in their services.
Marketing company Cox Media Group’s (CMG) advertising team has claimed that they listen to customers through embedded microphones in their smartphones, smart TVs, and other devices to collect data and provide targeted ads.
In a document written by Cox’s vice president of digital strategy, it is stated that “our phones are listening to us” and CMG has capabilities that can be used as a business advantage. The company refers to this practice as “Active Listening” and claims to be able to identify specific areas within a 10-20 mile radius where businesses want to grow and then notify them in real time when someone within that area is interested in their services.
However, it is unclear if CMG can actually carry out what it claims to do, as most smartphones have indicators that show when the microphone is in use. CMG representatives have not responded to requests for comment or further information.