India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has raised concerns over gig worker video and sensor data used to train physical AI models. Officials met home services platforms including Pronto, Snabbit, and Urban Company on Thursday. The discussions covered workers' rights, consumer privacy, and data sovereignty.
What officials requested
Officials sought details on standard operating procedures for collecting, processing, and storing first-person video recordings. They asked how companies obtain worker consent and protect the privacy of household members. They also asked whether data is sold or transferred to AI developers outside India.
Platform positions
Pronto has begun in-home video recording through its Verified service. Snabbit and Urban Company ruled out the practice. Pronto said its existing practices are designed to comply with applicable regulations and it would continue to engage with the ministry.
Physical AI data needs
Physical AI models need real-world data that captures human actions, objects, and environments. Pronto raised US$20 million from Lachy Groom, co-founder of AI startup Physical Intelligence. Its founder Anjali Sardana also set up a new physical AI venture, Provision Labs.
Legal experts said video recordings, facial images, and location traces may qualify as personal data under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act. Companies must provide clear notices about collection and processing purposes. Pronto has been asked to submit a detailed representation on its data practices.