Protect your privacy and take control of your smart TV’s microphone. Most smart TVs come equipped with hidden microphones that can capture audio even when voice commands are disabled. These microphones are designed for features like voice search and assistants, but they also pose potential privacy risks. The good news is that it’s relatively simple to disable your smart TV microphone and safeguard your conversations. Many modern TVs have a physical switch to turn off the microphone completely, often located along the bottom or sides of the screen. If your TV lacks a switch, you can access the settings menu to disable microphone access. For example, you might find options such as ‘Voice Recognition’ or ‘Voice Assistant’ within the ‘System’ or ‘Privacy’ sections. It is important to note that turning off the microphone does not mean you lose access to other smart features, as many remotes include a push-to-talk button for activating voice control when needed. Additionally, even after disabling the microphone, connected devices such as voice assistants may still be listening, so it’s essential to review their privacy settings as well. Manufacturers include microphones for convenience, allowing users to ask for weather updates, control volume, or search for movies with their voice, but it comes with trade-offs. Some companies may share voice data with third parties for analysis, so turning off the microphone is an effective way to limit unwanted data collection. By taking a few simple steps, you can enhance your digital privacy while still enjoying the benefits of a modern smart TV.