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Comment by post_break | Hacker News Reader

My samsung TV was never connected to the internet. I didnt even accept the user agreement, it still works just fine.

Just wait until they include Amazon Sidewalk, so the TV can connect using your neighbor's internet connection to download the latest ads.

Physically eliminating the RF capabilities of a device without impacting the rest of its functions is usually feasible with enough patience. Your options include blocking external radiation (add copper mesh/foil), or destroying the device's antennas.

Modern TVs come with remotes that only work via Bluetooth, not via IR, and which are required for using the TV.

I really love this kind of hacking but I hate several things.

1. That it's even necessary

2. That any non-techie would immediately be against even unscrewing anything on their own devices

Sure, I'm glad to do this on my own devices. But those willing to has gotta be a sample size of so small, its no bigger a deal than a statistical anomaly.

There's the missing link to make the living room mounted telescreen a reality.

A user agreement of a TV is hilarious now that I think about it. It’s surely a load of disclaimers and agreements that they can violate various privacy laws, but made after you have handed over the money.

I loathe the day where manufacturers start requiring Internet access because you know that most people won't think twice about it. And they'll also all do it within a couple years of each other.

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