What's this? Headphones that brag about how well they play music and cancel sound? It's refreshing to see. Sony seems to focus on all things audio with these pricey, critically acclaimed wireless headphones. They do offer something called "smart listening technology" so when you start to talk, the headphones pause the music so you can have a "hands-free conversation" (who knew we needed hands-free conversations!). For the most part, Sony keeps it all about what you hear — or don't hear — when you put these things on. Hey, that actually sounds good.
What could happen if something goes wrong?
We couldn't find too much that could go wrong with Sony’s headphones. We suppose you might go and try to read their privacy policy, get lulled into boredom by the complex, legal language and fall asleep with the volume on your headphones up way too loud, causing hearing loss. Don't listen to your music so loud when reading privacy policies! And Sony, please make your privacy information more accessible to consumers.
Sony does say it may use or share de-identified personal data for advertising purposes. This is generally OK, although many privacy researchers will point out it is relatively easy to de-anonymize such data. Also, if you choose to use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant with this smart speaker, know that Google and Amazon will collect data on the voice requests you make.
Tips to protect yourself
- Consider setting up a password for Bluetooth pairing
- Consider using your headphones without connecting it to an app. This way, you may decrease amount of data collected
Can it snoop on me?
Camera
Device: No
App: Yes
Microphone
Device: Yes
App: No
Tracks location
Device: No
App: No
What can be used to sign up?
Yes
Phone
No
Third-party account
No
What data does the company collect?
Personal
If a user connects to the "Sony headphones connect" application: email, date of birth.
Body related
Social
How does the company use this data?
How can you control your data?
What is the company’s known track record of protecting users’ data?
No known incidents in the last 3 years.
Can this product be used offline?
User-friendly privacy information?
Sony has a separate privacy policy for audio products and for their Headphones Connect app on top of their electronics privacy policy. These privacy policies are written in legalise.
Links to privacy information
Does this product meet our Minimum Security Standards?
Encryption
Strong password
The optional “Headphones Connect” App requires a password when you use the “Backup and restoration of settings” function.
Security updates
Manages vulnerabilities
Privacy policy
Does the product use AI?
Comments
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