Smart Devices Add Ads After Updates as Samsung Says Opt-Out Rate Stays in Low Single Digits
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 15
Smart Devices Add Ads After Updates as Samsung Says Opt-Out Rate Stays in Low Single Digits
2 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 15
Summary
Samsung Family Hub refrigerators in the U.S. now show rotating ads on idle Cover Screens after a software rollout, with Samsung saying users can switch them off in Settings.
Low single-digit opt-outs, according to Samsung, suggest most users have left the feature on, though the change has sharpened concerns that paid-for devices can be altered after purchase.
Stellantis said earlier promotional pop-ups in some Jeep, Ram and Chrysler vehicles ended in mid-fall 2025 and that no new in-vehicle ad campaigns are planned.
Windows 11 can also surface promotions on the lock screen, Start menu and account notifications, with settings available to reduce tips, recommendations and service prompts.
The broader issue is that software updates now let companies monetize screens in homes, cars and PCs long after sale, blurring ownership and privacy boundaries.