Some users of the Samsung Health app encountered an in-app notice asking them to consent to the use of their health data for artificial intelligence (AI) training and modeling. The prompt appeared when users opened the application and requested permission to collect and process certain health-related information.
What data would be collected?
According to the notice, if users consent, Samsung would collect general health information, medication data, health records and data related to the female cycle. Samsung has said the collected and processed information will be used for AI training and modeling, and that human moderators may review the information.
Consequences of refusing consent
Reports from GSMArena indicate that users who do not grant consent will not only be unable to synchronize their health data with their Samsung account, but that such data will be deleted by the system. That warning is shown to users who attempt to withdraw or deny consent.
Withdrawal of consent and privacy measures
Samsung allows users to withdraw their consent at any time via the app under Settings – Privacy. The company also states it will anonymize user data prior to processing.
Why this matters
Samsung says the move aims to improve Samsung Health, including algorithms for analyzing health data and AI-related features. However, the combination of a forced choice to enable AI data use, the possibility of deletion for non-consenters, and human review of anonymized records is likely to raise privacy concerns among users.
Notes
The developments and user notifications have been reported by multiple technology outlets based on user experience and Samsung’s statements. Samsung’s stated anonymization and the option to revoke consent are presented as safeguards for user choice.
