Telly, the hardware startup that is giving U.S. consumers free dual-screen smart TVs that are supported by advertising, announced today that it has started shipping its TVs to its first round of customers. The company says the customers in this initial wave have been invited to participate in its beta program, but did not disclose how many TVs it has shipped.
The TVs are free because of the constant ads that are displayed on the smaller second screen located below the 55-inch 4K TV. In exchange for the TV, you essentially have to pay for it with your personal information and viewing data. Telly requires users to give the company detailed information about themselves, such as their name, age, gender, home address and ethnicity, as well as viewing habits and purchasing behaviors.
Variety reports that customers must agree to conditions under the company’s terms of service. If someone doesn’t adhere to the terms of service, Telly can demand the TV be shipped back …
