Many users expect their smartphones to run apps that respect privacy and transparency. However, some Motorola smartphones, including the Motorola Edge 70, come with a pre-installed system app called Motorola Smart Feed that quietly redirects shopping apps to include affiliate codes. This means Motorola earns commissions on purchases made through these apps without explicit user consent.
- The Smart Feed app detects when a shopping app is launched and inserts affiliate codes.
- The process involves opening a web browser to load affiliate links before launching the shopping app.
- Users do not pay extra, but Motorola collects data and profits silently.
- The affiliate link domain is linked to an unrelated fashion influencer, raising transparency questions.
How Smart Feed Inserts Affiliate Codes Into Shopping Apps
The Smart Feed app monitors Internet activity to identify when popular shopping apps are opened. Instead of launching the app directly, it first opens a web browser with a special affiliate link. This link then triggers the shopping app to open, embedding Motorola’s affiliate code into the transaction. As a result, Motorola receives commission payments from the retailer for sales made through the redirected app.
This behavior was confirmed by third parties and appears to have been introduced recently. Earlier versions of Smart Feed did not perform these redirects. The method ensures users experience no price increase, but it raises questions about user awareness and consent.
Privacy and Transparency Trade-Offs
The key issue is that this affiliate redirect happens without clear notification to users. While no extra cost is passed on, Motorola collects information on user shopping habits by monitoring app launches and traffic. Additionally, the affiliate link uses a domain unrelated to Motorola, connected to a fashion influencer, which complicates transparency.
Users concerned about privacy can disable the Smart Feed app in system settings under Apps, stopping the redirects altogether. This is an important option since there has been no official statement from Motorola addressing this practice.
What This Means for Buyers
For buyers, the trade-off centers on convenience versus transparency. The affiliate system does not affect prices or shopping functionality, but it does mean Motorola profits from user purchases without clear disclosure. Buyers who prioritize privacy may want to disable Smart Feed or consider phones without such built-in affiliate mechanisms.
Availability of this feature varies by region and smartphone model, so users should check their device settings. Overall, this case highlights growing concerns over hidden monetization tactics in pre-installed system apps.
Consider it if you want a solid device and don’t mind affiliate-based commissions quietly supporting the manufacturer. Skip it if you prefer full transparency and control over your app behavior and data privacy.
(Via)
