Cox Media Group's AI software listens to user conversations for targeted ads
A leaked pitch deck from Cox Media Group reveals the company operates AI software called Active-Listening that reportedly eavesdrops on user conversations through device microphones to gather advertising intent data. The software allegedly pairs voice data with online behavior to target ads to consumers, with Facebook, Google, and Amazon reportedly listed as clients; Meta and Amazon opened investigations into the practice.
What happened
A leaked pitch deck from Cox Media Group details the company's 'Active-Listening' AI software, which reportedly collects and analyzes 'real-time intent data' from consumers by listening to conversations via microphones on phones, laptops, and home assistants.
The pitch deck lists Facebook, Google, and Amazon as clients and describes a six-step process that uses AI to extract intent data from overheard conversations, then pairs voice data with users' online behavioral data to identify high-value consumers near purchase decisions.
Reported impact
The software could determine from private conversations that a user is considering a purchase—such as buying a car—and target them with relevant ads. CMG claimed the Active-Listening tools were legal because user consent was buried in the fine print of terms of service agreements.
Index analysis
The leak confirms long-standing suspicions that tech companies use device microphones to gather data on users for advertising purposes, despite public denials. It remains unclear whether the software is always listening or only triggered at specific times such as during calls.
Governance controls
In response to the revelations, Google removed CMG from its official marketing partners list. Meta and Amazon issued statements indicating they are investigating CMG for potential violations of data privacy policies.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.