EFF Report: Only Apple and Google Publish Transparency Reports Among Major Wearable Brands

The Electronic Frontier Foundation has published a comprehensive report on privacy practices across the wearable tech industry, and the findings are sobering: most smart watch, ring, and fitness band makers lack basic transparency reports and key privacy features that users should expect from devices that capture intimate health data.

Who Publishes Transparency Reports?

Only two companies in the entire wearable market currently publish transparency reports detailing government and law enforcement data requests:

• Apple (Apple Watch, AirPods)
• Google/Fitbit (Pixel Watch, Fitbit trackers)

Samsung, Garmin, Oura, Amazfit, Xiaomi, and every other major wearable brand do not publish any transparency report.

Who Notifies Users of Data Requests?

Only three companies promise to notify users when law enforcement requests their data:

• Apple
• Google
• Whoop

Oura updated its privacy policy in June 2026 and says it is "actively evaluating ways to provide greater visibility into how we handle these requests, including through a transparency report" — a positive signal but not yet a commitment.

Why This Matters for Wearable Buyers

Wearable devices collect some of the most personal data in consumer tech: heart rate, sleep patterns, location, blood oxygen, skin temperature, and — increasingly — blood pressure and glucose trends. The EFF argues that any company handling data of interest to law enforcement owes its users transparency about how often that data is requested and handed over.

What This Means for Buyers

If privacy is a priority, Apple and Google wearables currently offer the most transparency. Apple Watch Series 11 at $299 and the Pixel Watch 3 at $247 are the best-value options from the two most transparent brands. Oura Ring 4 users should watch for the promised transparency report. Samsung, Garmin, and other brands have work to do. Browse privacy-conscious options in our smartwatch guide and smart ring guide.