this post was submitted on 13 Aug 2025
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submitted 1 day ago* (last edited 14 hours ago) by Nino477@lemmy.world to c/privacy@lemmy.ml
 

During Prime Days I was dumb and bought some Chinese lamp because it was on sale. I gotta say, it’s actually awesome — with the app I can change colors, styles, and so on, and I really like it.

The account creation already bugged me, although I think it was only needed for the first startup. I deleted the account since then. The app is in deep sleep on my phone with zero permissions except Bluetooth.

What really bothers me, though, is the built-in microphone for voice commands — on a lamp! I don’t want someone listening to me. It’s too late to send it back, and I actually want to keep it.

Until now, I’ve just unplugged it from the outlet every time I don’t use it, but that’s very tedious. So, is there an easier way to completely disable the microphone? Does putting tape over it completely mute it? Or would I have to take it apart and desolder it — which I’m probably too lazy, impatient, and inexperienced to do? So is there maybe a smarter or brute force way to do it? im paranoid i dont want my fucking lamp listening to me. sometime i even turn of mic and cam acsess on my phone.

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[–] RogueBanana@piefed.zip 13 points 20 hours ago (2 children)

I am a bit confused. How is the manufacturer listening on you? Do you have that connected to your WiFi or Bluetooth? Both should be easy to handle.

[–] Nino477@lemmy.world 8 points 14 hours ago (3 children)

It wants me to connect to wifi but i did not.

Bluetoorh works worse but is a requirement to change color 💀 I hate modern technology

[–] ArcaneSlime@lemmy.dbzer0.com 3 points 12 hours ago

Tbf the only reason it can change colors at all is due to modern(ish, at least) technology. My lamp is a lamp. I don't even have a clapper. I hate modern technology lmao.

[–] RogueBanana@piefed.zip 1 points 10 hours ago

Ah then once you are done, just uninstall or disable the app and unpair the lamp. Should be good enough.

[–] Nino477@lemmy.world 1 points 14 hours ago

Even had to set up an acc to statt using it but i used and burner mail

[–] Nino477@lemmy.world 1 points 14 hours ago

1000202787

Sorry but ai: "Distributed environment gateway" in English.

From the red Wi-Fi symbol, it looks like the app is telling you that this gateway (likely for a smart home system, IoT devices, or industrial network) is offline or not connected to the internet.