Smart devices such as air fryers and digital speakers, featuring 'excessive' data collection, are raising privacy concerns according to a report by consumer group Which?.

Testing revealed that three air fryers, including models from Xiaomi and Aigostar, requested to record audio through their associated apps, with some data being sent to servers in China.

There were also digital speakers embedded with trackers for companies like Facebook and Google.

In response, the UK's Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) plans to release new guidance for smart device manufacturers by spring 2025 to better meet data protection expectations.

The industry's lack of transparency over data collection was criticized by Harry Rose, editor of Which?

magazine, urging for stricter regulations.

Xiaomi responded, stating their adherence to UK data protection laws, emphasizing a commitment to user privacy.

The rise of smart home devices, such as doorbells and TVs, underscores the need for consumers to be vigilant about personal data security.