Do Hisense TVs Have Cameras? Complete 2026 Guide [All Models Covered]

Quick Answer: No, the vast majority of Hisense TVs do not have built-in cameras. Consumer models including the popular U8K, U7K, U6, and A-series lack integrated cameras entirely. The only exceptions are select Laser TV projector models designed for commercial or specialized applications. However, most Hisense smart TVs do include built-in microphones for voice control features - and there's a much bigger privacy concern you should know about.

If you've been wondering whether your Hisense TV is watching you through a hidden lens, you can breathe easy. But before you relax completely, there's something more important to address: the December 2025 Texas lawsuit that revealed how Hisense TVs actually track what you watch - not through cameras, but through screen-capture technology that takes 7,200 images per hour of your viewing activity.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Hisense TV cameras, microphones, and privacy settings. Whether you want to verify your specific model, learn how to protect your hisense tv privacy settings, or set up an external webcam for video calls, I've got you covered.

Which Hisense TV Models Have Cameras? Complete 2026 Breakdown

After examining specifications across Hisense's entire 2024-2026 lineup, the answer is clear: standard Hisense consumer televisions do not include built-in cameras. This applies across all operating systems and price points.

The confusion often stems from two sources. First, many people mistake the small microphone holes in the TV bezel for camera lenses. Second, some premium Laser TV projector systems include camera sensors for installation alignment - but these aren't designed for video surveillance or video calling.

Here's the complete breakdown by series:

ULED/Mini-LED Series (U9, U8, U7, U6)

The flagship U-series represents Hisense's premium lineup, featuring Mini-LED backlighting and advanced processing. None of these models include built-in cameras.

The U8 and U9 series deserve special mention because they feature a physical microphone switch - a hardware-level privacy control I'll explain in detail later. If you're setting up a new U8 model, checking your hisense tv setup guide for privacy options during initial configuration is worthwhile. Understanding your model's capabilities can also help you determine if features like a hisense built-in camera apply to your specific TV.

Budget & Entry-Level Series

Hisense's more affordable options follow the same pattern: no cameras, with microphone availability depending on the smart TV platform.

These budget models typically rely on voice commands through the remote control rather than far-field microphones built into the TV itself. That means no always-listening capability unless you're holding the remote and pressing the voice button.

Platform-Specific Models

Hisense manufactures TVs running four different operating systems. Camera status remains consistent across all platforms - none have them.

Laser TV/Projector Models

This is where things get slightly more complicated. Hisense's Laser TV lineup consists of ultra-short-throw projectors designed to replace traditional flat-panel TVs.

The L9G, L9H, L5G, and similar projector models don't include user-facing cameras for video calls. However, newer models like the XR10 (announced at CES 2026) incorporate camera sensors for installation purposes - specifically for automatic geometric correction and screen alignment. These aren't surveillance cameras or webcams; they help the projector calibrate its image to your wall or screen.

How to Find Your Model Number

Not sure which model you own? Here's how to check:

1. Look at the back of your TV near the inputs - there's usually a sticker with the model number

2. Navigate to Settings → System → About on most Hisense TVs

3. The model naming convention helps identify the year: "Q" suffix = 2025, "NQ" = 2024, "KQ" = 2023

Once you have your model number, you can verify specifications on Hisense's official website or check if any hisense tv firmware update has changed your TV's capabilities.

Where Is the Camera Located on Hisense TV?

Since most Hisense TVs lack cameras entirely, this question usually comes from users who've spotted something suspicious on their TV's bezel. Let me help you identify what you're actually seeing.

Physical Inspection Guide

If you want to thoroughly check your Hisense TV for camera hardware, follow these steps:

1. Power off and unplug your TV for safety and to eliminate any reflections from the screen

2. Position yourself at eye level with the top bezel where cameras are typically placed on TVs that have them

3. Use a flashlight at an angle to illuminate any potential lens elements - camera lenses have a distinctive reflective quality

4. Check the top center bezel first since this is the standard camera placement on most smart TVs

5. Examine the bottom bezel near the Hisense logo and power indicator

6. Look for sliding covers or retractable mechanisms that might hide a camera (Hisense doesn't use these, but it's worth checking)

What You're Actually Seeing

Most "camera sightings" on Hisense TVs are actually one of these components:

Microphone holes: Small 1-2mm holes, often in pairs, with no glass element visible. These are common on U8 and U9 series models and are used for voice commands.

IR receiver: A larger dark plastic area, usually near the bottom center of the bezel. This receives signals from your remote control.

Ambient light sensor: A small sensor, often positioned in a corner, that adjusts screen brightness based on room lighting. You can access related options in your hisense tv picture settings.

Power indicator LED: The small light that shows your TV's status.

The U8K Microphone Confusion

I've seen this specific question repeatedly: "Is that small opening on my U8K a camera?" The answer is no - it's the far-field microphone array for Google Assistant.

The U8K and similar models have microphone holes in the bottom bezel, near the Hisense logo. These are approximately 1-2mm diameter holes that allow the TV to hear your voice commands from across the room. There's no lens, no glass element, and no camera functionality.

Settings Menu Verification

You can also verify camera hardware through your TV's software:

1. Navigate to Settings → Apps → App Permissions → Camera

2. If no camera hardware exists, this option may not appear at all

3. If it does appear but shows "No apps use camera," your TV lacks camera hardware

Still uncertain? Contact Hisense support at 1-888-935-8880 for confirmation about your specific model.

Does Your Hisense TV Have a Microphone? Location & Controls

While cameras are rare, microphones are common on Hisense smart TVs. Understanding where they are and how to control them matters for privacy.

Which Models Have Built-in Microphones?

Most mid-range and premium Hisense TVs include far-field microphones that can hear you from across the room. Budget models typically only have voice capability through the remote control.

Far-field microphones (always-listening capability):

• U9 series (all models)

• U8 series (all models)

• U7 series (Google TV models)

• Some Fire TV Edition models

Remote-only microphones (push-to-talk):

• A-series

• QD-series

• Most Roku TV models

Microphone Location

On models with built-in microphones, you'll find them in the bottom bezel - typically centered or slightly offset toward the Hisense logo. Look for small perforated holes that allow sound to pass through.

The microphone placement makes sense from an engineering standpoint. Bottom-center positioning picks up voice commands well from typical viewing positions while staying unobtrusive in the design.

Physical Microphone Switch (U8/U9 Series)

Here's something many Hisense owners don't realize: premium models include a physical microphone switch that provides hardware-level privacy control.

Location: Hidden beneath the Hisense logo on the front panel Function: Completely disconnects the microphone at the hardware level Visual indicator: Unlike some competitors, Hisense TVs don't activate annoying LED lights when you switch the mic off

This physical switch overrides any software settings. Even if a software bug or update changed your microphone preferences, the hardware switch keeps the mic disabled. For privacy-conscious users, this is genuinely valuable.

Software Microphone Controls

If your model lacks a physical switch, or you prefer software controls, here's how to disable the microphone on each platform:

Google TV (most U-series models):

1. Press Home → Settings

2. Navigate to Device Preferences → Google Assistant

3. Toggle off Google Assistant

4. For deeper control: Settings → Apps → App Permissions → Microphone → Show System Apps

5. Disable microphone access for Google and Google Play Services

Fire TV Edition:

1. Settings → Preferences → Privacy Settings

2. Disable "Device Usage Data"

3. Settings → Alexa → Disable Hands-Free Alexa

Roku TV:

1. Settings → Privacy → Microphone

2. Disable channel microphone access

You can find more detailed audio configurations in your hisense tv sound settings menu, though microphone controls are typically under Privacy or Assistant settings rather than sound.

What the Microphone Actually Does

When enabled, your Hisense TV's microphone listens for wake words like "Hey Google" or "Alexa" (depending on your platform). Once triggered, audio is processed and may be sent to cloud servers for interpretation.

Google and Amazon both store voice history by default. You can review and delete this data:

• Google: myactivity.google.com

• Amazon: amazon.com/alexa-privacy

For those who want hisense remote voice control without the always-listening feature, using the push-to-talk button on your remote gives you voice commands without ambient monitoring.

Hisense TV Privacy Concerns: ACR, Data Collection & Texas Lawsuit

Here's what actually warrants your attention: your Hisense TV may not have a camera, but it might be capturing images of everything displayed on your screen.

The December 2025 Texas Lawsuit

On December 15, 2025, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Hisense USA Corporation that fundamentally changed the conversation about smart TV privacy.

Key details from the lawsuit:

The lawsuit alleges that Hisense TVs use Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology to capture screenshots every 500 milliseconds - that's 7,200 images per hour - without adequate consumer disclosure or meaningful consent.

Importantly, Texas also sued Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL for similar practices. This isn't a Hisense-specific problem; it's an industry-wide issue.

What is ACR Technology?

ACR - Automatic Content Recognition - is software embedded in your smart TV that identifies what's displayed on screen. Here's how it works:

1. Your TV captures a screenshot or audio fingerprint multiple times per second

2. This data is compared against massive databases to identify the content

3. Information about what you watch, when you watch it, and how long you watch gets transmitted back to servers

4. This data is used for targeted advertising, content recommendations, and sold to third parties

The privacy implications extend beyond streaming apps. ACR can identify content from:

• Cable and satellite TV

• Gaming consoles

• Blu-ray players

• Anything connected via HDMI

• Even content you display from a laptop or phone

Chinese Ownership Concerns

The Texas lawsuit specifically called out national security implications. Hisense is a Chinese company, and China's National Security Law theoretically allows the government to access data held by Chinese corporations.

Whether this represents a genuine risk for the average consumer is debatable. But the lawsuit argues that Hisense failed to disclose this potential foreign government access to consumers.

What Hisense Actually Collects

Based on the lawsuit allegations and industry analysis, Hisense TVs with ACR enabled may collect:

• Content viewing data (what you watch, when, how long)

• App usage patterns

• Search queries

• Voice commands (if microphone is enabled)

• Device information and settings

• Network information

Hisense has a partnership with Nexxen (formerly Unruly) that extends through 2029 for monetizing ACR viewing data for advertising purposes.

The Balanced Perspective

Before panic sets in, consider some context:

1. All major TV brands do this - Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Vizio all use similar ACR technology

2. You can disable it - Unlike some invasive tech, ACR can be turned off in your TV's privacy settings

3. It's not video surveillance - ACR captures what's on screen, not video of you or your room

4. The lawsuit is ongoing - Hisense has stated they "stand by the high quality of its products and respecting customers' privacy"

The TRO against Hisense prevents them from collecting ACR data from Texas residents while the lawsuit proceeds. Keep your hisense tv firmware update current, as privacy-related changes may arrive through software updates.

How to Protect Your Privacy on Hisense TV: Complete Settings Guide

Regardless of which Hisense TV you own, you can take control of your privacy. Here's exactly how to disable data collection on each platform.

For Google TV (Hisense U8, U7, U9 Series)

Google TV powers most of Hisense's premium 2024-2026 models. Follow these steps:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings → Privacy

3. Select "Usage & Diagnostics" → Toggle OFF

4. Go to Settings → Privacy → Ads

5. Select "Delete advertising ID" and confirm

6. Select "Reset advertising ID" periodically

7. Navigate to Settings → Device Preferences → Google Assistant → Toggle OFF (if not using voice)

8. For Samba TV ACR: Settings → Apps → find "Samba Interactive TV" → Disable

Critical setting for ACR: Look for "Viewing Information Services" or "Smart TV Experience" under Privacy settings and disable it.

For VIDAA OS (Hisense Proprietary System)

VIDAA is Hisense's own operating system used on many international models and some US sets:

1. Press Settings on your remote

2. Navigate to Privacy (or System → Privacy)

3. Disable "Smart TV Experience"

4. Turn off "Viewing Information Services" (this is the ACR control)

5. Disable "Personalized Ads"

6. Review "Data Collection" preferences and disable any non-essential options

For Roku-Powered Hisense TVs

Roku TV models have a different privacy menu structure:

1. Press Home → Settings

2. Scroll down to Privacy

3. Select "Smart TV Experience"

4. Uncheck "Use info from TV inputs"

5. Uncheck "Enable ACR" if this option appears

6. Go back to Privacy → Advertising

7. Enable "Limit Ad Tracking"

8. Select "Reset advertising identifier"

For Fire TV Edition Hisense TVs

Amazon's Fire TV platform powers several Hisense budget models:

1. Go to Settings → Preferences

2. Select "Privacy Settings"

3. Toggle OFF "Device Usage Data"

4. Toggle OFF "Collect App Usage Data"

5. Toggle OFF "Interest-Based Ads"

6. Go to Settings → Preferences → Data Monitoring → Toggle OFF

7. For Alexa: Settings → Alexa → Disable "Hands-Free Alexa"

Physical Microphone Disable (U8/U9 Series)

As mentioned earlier, premium models have a hardware switch:

1. Locate the small switch hidden beneath the Hisense logo on the front panel

2. Slide it to the OFF position

3. The microphone is now hardware-disabled regardless of software settings

Network-Level Options

For maximum privacy, consider:

• Pi-hole: A network-wide ad and tracker blocker that can prevent data transmission at the router level

• Router DNS blocking: Configure your router to block known tracking domains

• Disconnect from internet: Smart TVs work as "dumb" displays without internet - you lose smart features but gain complete privacy

If you're experiencing issues after changing privacy settings, some hisense app problems can occur when permissions are restricted. Most core functionality remains intact, but certain recommendation features may stop working. If you need to reinstall apps after adjusting permissions, see our guide on how to download apps on hisense smart tv.

How to Connect an External Webcam to Hisense TV

Since Hisense TVs lack built-in cameras, you'll need an external webcam for video calling. The good news: most Hisense smart TVs support USB webcams.

Compatible Webcam Recommendations

Not every webcam works with smart TVs. Based on user reports and compatibility testing, these models work reliably:

Best Overall:

• OBSBOT Tiny 2 - AI tracking, 4K resolution, excellent low-light performance

• Price: ~$329

Reliable Mid-Range:

• Logitech C920/C922 - Wide compatibility, 1080p, proven track record

• Price: ~$70-100

Budget-Friendly:

• NexiGo N60/N930AF - 1080p at 30fps, good value

• Price: ~$40-60

• EMEET C960 - Basic but functional, good compatibility

• Price: ~$30-40

Official Hisense Option:

• HMC1AE USB Pluggable Camera - Designed for Hisense commercial displays, 4K sensor, 120° wide angle

• Primarily for commercial/enterprise use

Step-by-Step Connection Process

1. Locate your TV's USB port - Check the hisense tv usb port locations (typically on the back or side panel)

2. Plug in your webcam - Insert the USB connector firmly

3. Wait for detection - Most webcams are plug-and-play; your TV should recognize it automatically

4. Restart if needed - If not detected, power cycle your TV

5. Verify in Settings - Navigate to Settings → System → Inputs and confirm the webcam appears

6. Download a video calling app - Google Meet works best on Google TV models

7. Grant permissions - When prompted, allow camera and microphone access

8. Test your setup - Make a test call to verify video and audio work

Platform-Specific Compatibility

Google TV Hisense models: Best webcam support. Google Meet works natively, and many webcams function without issues.

VIDAA OS models: Limited native webcam support. Screen mirroring from a phone or laptop may be a better option.

Roku TV models: Minimal video calling app support. Consider casting from another device.

Fire TV Edition: Good Alexa integration for video calls to Echo Show devices.

For the best video calling experience on any platform, ensure you have a strong hisense wired connection rather than relying on WiFi, as video calls demand consistent bandwidth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Webcam not detected:

• Try a different USB port

• Test the webcam on a computer to verify it works

• Restart your TV

• Check if your TV's USB ports provide enough power (some webcams need powered USB hubs)

No video in app:

• Verify app permissions include camera access

• Check if the webcam appears in system settings

• Try a different video calling app

Poor video quality:

• Ensure adequate lighting

• Check webcam resolution settings if adjustable

• Verify your internet upload speed (minimum 2 Mbps for HD video)

Best Video Calling Apps for Hisense Smart TV

Video calling app availability depends on your TV's operating system. Here's what works on each platform.

Google TV Models (U8, U7, U9 Series)

Google TV offers the best native video calling support:

Google Meet/Duo: Best native option with seamless integration. Download from Google Play Store, connect your webcam, and you're ready to call.

Zoom: Limited native availability. The mobile app can be sideloaded on some models, but quality and performance vary. Screen mirroring from a phone or laptop often works better.

Microsoft Teams: Not natively available. Use screen mirroring or casting from a computer.

VIDAA OS Models

Hisense's proprietary OS has limited video calling options:

• Native video calling apps are essentially nonexistent

• Best alternative: Screen mirror from your smartphone or laptop using the TV as a display

• Some users have success sideloading Android apps, but compatibility isn't guaranteed

Roku TV Models

Roku's focus is on streaming content, not communication:

• Very limited video calling app selection

• Screen mirroring from your phone (especially iPhone with AirPlay on supported models) works best

• Cast from a laptop using Miracast

For any hisense screen mirroring issues on Roku models, ensure both your TV and phone are on the same WiFi network.

Fire TV Edition Models

Amazon's platform offers unique calling features:

Alexa Calling: Video call other Echo devices directly. Works well with a connected USB webcam.

Drop In: Instant video connection to family Echo Shows (with permission granted).

Third-party apps: Similar to other platforms, Zoom and other major video apps have limited native support.

When Screen Mirroring is Better

For many use cases, mirroring your phone or laptop to your TV works better than native TV apps:

1. Your phone/laptop camera is higher quality than most USB webcams

2. App compatibility is guaranteed

3. You can position your device camera at a more flattering angle

4. Audio quality from your device may be better

If you're experiencing issues with streaming apps in general, troubleshooting steps for hisense youtube app issue or hisense netflix problems often apply to video calling apps as well.

Hisense vs Samsung vs LG: TV Camera & Privacy Comparison

If privacy concerns are driving your TV purchase decision, here's how Hisense compares to major competitors.

Camera & Microphone Comparison

Data Collection Practices

All four brands were named in Texas AG lawsuits filed in December 2025:

Privacy Settings Accessibility

How easy is it to actually disable tracking?

Hisense: Varies by platform. Google TV models have relatively accessible privacy settings. VIDAA settings can be harder to find.

Samsung: Privacy settings exist but use confusing terminology like "Viewing Information Services" that many users don't understand.

LG: "Live Plus" must be disabled for ACR. Settings are reasonably accessible.

TCL: Depends on platform (Roku, Google TV, or Fire TV). Roku TV models have some of the clearer privacy options.

The Honest Assessment

If you're choosing a TV purely based on privacy:

1. No major brand is significantly better - All collect similar data

2. Operating system matters more than brand - Roku offers clearer privacy controls than most

3. Manual configuration required everywhere - No brand defaults to privacy-protective settings

4. Physical mic switches are valuable - Hisense's U8/U9 series, like some Samsung and LG models, offer this

For brand history and ownership details, check out information about who makes hisense tvs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hisense TV Cameras

Does Hisense TV record me?

No, most Hisense TVs cannot record video of you because they lack built-in cameras. However, Hisense TVs with ACR technology do track what content you watch on screen, capturing images every 500 milliseconds. This data collection was the subject of a December 2025 Texas lawsuit. Video recording and content tracking are different - ACR sees what's displayed on your screen, not video of you watching it.

How do I know if my Hisense TV has a camera?

Check the TV bezel for a small camera lens (most Hisense TVs won't have one). You can also navigate to Settings → Apps → App Permissions → Camera - if no camera hardware exists, this option may not appear or will show "No apps use camera." Additionally, consult your model's specification sheet on hisense-usa.com or contact Hisense support at 1-888-935-8880 for confirmation.

Can Hisense TV see me without a camera?

No. Without a camera, your Hisense TV cannot see you. However, TVs with microphones can hear voice commands when enabled, and ACR technology can identify what's displayed on your screen. These are different from visual surveillance. Your TV might know you watched three hours of cooking shows, but it can't see who was in the room watching.

Is it safe to use a Hisense TV?

Yes, Hisense TVs are safe to use with proper privacy settings configured. Disable ACR/viewing data collection in privacy settings, turn off the built-in microphone if you're not using voice features (use the physical switch on U8/U9 models), and keep firmware updated for security patches. The privacy concerns are real but manageable.

Can I do Zoom calls on Hisense TV?

Yes, you can make video calls on Hisense TV by connecting an external USB webcam. Google TV models have the best support for video calling apps like Google Meet. For other platforms (VIDAA, Roku, Fire TV), screen mirroring from your phone or laptop may provide a better experience than native apps.

Does Hisense sell my data?

Hisense has partnerships (like with Nexxen through 2029) that monetize ACR viewing data for advertising purposes. The December 2025 Texas lawsuit alleges this data is collected and shared without adequate consumer consent. You can limit data sharing in your TV's privacy settings by disabling ACR, turning off personalized ads, and resetting your advertising ID.

Should I cover my TV with tape?

For most Hisense TVs, covering the bezel with tape is unnecessary since they don't have cameras. If your primary concern is the microphone, using the physical mic switch (on U8/U9 models) or disabling voice features in settings is more effective than tape. For Laser TV projectors with alignment cameras, a cover doesn't affect functionality since those cameras are only used during setup.

How often does Hisense TV send data?

According to the Texas AG lawsuit, Hisense TVs with ACR enabled capture screen content every 500 milliseconds - that's 7,200 captures per hour or 120 captures per minute. This data is transmitted back to Hisense servers. You can disable this by turning off "Viewing Information Services" or the equivalent ACR setting in your TV's privacy menu.

If you notice unusual behavior like your TV powering on unexpectedly, this is likely unrelated to cameras - check out our guide on hisense tv turns on by itself for troubleshooting. Similarly, display issues like hisense tv no signal are technical problems, not privacy concerns.

Conclusion: Is Your Hisense TV Safe?

After examining specifications, privacy settings, and recent legal developments, here's the bottom line:

The camera question: The vast majority of Hisense TV owners can rest assured their television isn't watching them through a camera lens. Consumer Hisense TVs - including the popular U8, U7, U6, A-series, Roku models, and Fire TV editions - simply don't have cameras built in.

The microphone reality: Most mid-range and premium Hisense TVs do include microphones for voice commands. These can be disabled through software settings or (on U8/U9 models) via a physical hardware switch.

The actual privacy concern: ACR data collection represents the real privacy issue with modern smart TVs, Hisense included. The December 2025 Texas lawsuit brought this practice into sharp focus, and Hisense is now legally prohibited from collecting ACR data from Texas residents while the case proceeds.

Immediate Actions to Take

1. Check your privacy settings - Disable ACR/Viewing Information Services on your Hisense TV

2. Manage microphone access - Use the physical switch if available, or disable via software

3. Reset your advertising ID - Found in privacy settings on all platforms

4. Keep firmware updated - Security and privacy improvements arrive through updates

5. Review connected app permissions - Limit data access for apps you don't actively use

Final Thoughts

Hisense TVs aren't uniquely problematic - Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL face the same Texas lawsuits over identical practices. But being aware of what your TV can and cannot do puts you in control.

By disabling ACR in your privacy settings, managing microphone access, and staying informed about firmware updates, you can enjoy your Hisense TV with confidence while protecting your personal data. The technology to track our viewing habits exists across the industry; the power to limit that tracking remains in your hands.

For complete setup instructions including privacy configuration, see our hisense tv setup guide. And once your privacy settings are optimized, explore features like hisense tv game mode to get the most entertainment value from your television.

This guide was researched and verified in January 2026. Privacy settings and features may change with firmware updates. Always check current specifications and settings on your specific Hisense TV model.