Recent reports suggest that some smart air fryers may be collecting user data, including personal information and audio recordings, sparking privacy concerns. A study conducted by Which?, a consumer advocacy group, investigated air fryers from Chinese brands Xiaomi, Tencent, and Aigostar. Surprisingly, the devices requested permissions to record audio and gather data such as precise locations, gender, and date of birth.
While Aigostar clarified to UNILAD that their air fryers lack recording capabilities and that location access is only for Wi-Fi setup, concerns remain. The report noted that some of the collected data is sent to servers in China and even connects to ad networks like Pangle and tech giant Tencent. These findings have raised alarm over a lack of transparency and control over user data.
Experts have criticized the tech industry’s “reckless” data collection practices, with Harry Rose, Which? magazine editor, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations. The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has committed to issuing clearer guidelines in spring 2025 to ensure companies comply with data protection laws.
The controversy highlights a broader issue of smart devices requiring intrusive permissions unrelated to their primary function. Regulators urge companies to prioritize user trust and transparency, reminding consumers they often “pay twice”—once for the product and again with their personal data.
