Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act

Summary: Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act

This bill would require manufacturers of smart devices — such as smartphones, smart TVs, laptops, tablets, smart speakers, and other internet-connected gadgets — to clearly disclose to consumers whether their products contain cameras, microphones, or other listening and recording capabilities. The goal is to make sure that people buying these devices know upfront if the device has the ability to watch or listen to them, rather than having that information buried in fine print or technical specifications.

Under this bill, manufacturers would need to provide this disclosure in a clear and easy-to-understand way, likely on product packaging or at the point of sale. This is meant to give everyday consumers straightforward, honest information before they make a purchasing decision, so they can make informed choices about the devices they bring into their homes and workplaces.

The bill affects anyone who buys or uses internet-connected consumer devices, which today includes a very large portion of the American public. It also affects device manufacturers and retailers, who would be responsible for ensuring the required disclosures are included with their products. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would likely play a role in enforcing these requirements.

The bill passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 415 to 9 and has been placed on the Senate calendar for consideration. It has not yet become law.