Android users, Netflix might be tracking your physical activity data

Netflix

Update:08/02/2019: Netflix confirmed to the Vergethe exam is over. Yet, you'll notice that your device volition have the physical activity tracker turned on. Additionally, Netflix did not say if they'll remove the information they nerveless.

The original story to follow:

Some Android users are finding that Netflix is tracking their physical activity data on their smartphone.

Twitter user Beto on Security offset discovered this.

In a argument to The Next Web, Netflix said tracking concrete action "was function of a test to run across how we can improve video playback quality when a member is on the become." The company went on to say that the feature is simply active on some accounts and that information technology currently doesn't plan to carry a widespread rollout.

Netflix may only be request for admission to concrete activity data on devices with the Android Q beta. In our office, we checked a Samsung Galaxy S10+ and Pixel 3 40 running Android Pie. In both instances, Netlfix didn't have access to physical activity data. However, we also checked a Pixel ii Twoscore that's running Android Q. It had the Concrete activity permission as soon equally we downloaded the app. Users have to plough off the permission if they don't want Netflix to rails their physical activeness.

Reportedly, the company may be using Android Q's new activity recognition permission. The API tells developers if individuals are using their app while on the movement. It also classifies activities such as walking and biking or if they're in a moving vehicle.

This feature relies on a device's built-in sensors, including its accelerometer and gyroscope.

It's currently unclear how Netflix volition use this applied science. But it might be to run across what you're doing with the app when you're on the move.

Source: The Adjacent Web, Beto on Security
Netflix has reportedly stopped its Physical action tracking test [