No more IDs - The future of data protection in the smart home

The boundaries of technological possibilities are constantly shifting. Technological innovations accompany us in everyday life and have found their way into our homes as smart home devices. However, the question arises as to how to obtain user consent for the use of their data, since smart home devices often lack user interfaces, have limited processing power, and require apps for control. Furthermore, a solution compliant with current data protection regulations must be found that largely avoids user IDs but still transparently records who gave consent, when, and on which device.

The startup APOCRAT, which originated at the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, is working on a legally compliant solution to this problem, ensuring the protection of user privacy while maintaining the full functionality of smart home devices. The results of this project will not only benefit smart home providers but can also be applied in other industries facing similar challenges.