Why We Don’t Use Tracking in Video Brochures
At theVideoCards, we focus on creativity and customization – that’s why we are experts in video-based marketing devices. Our solutions are tailored to meet your specific needs and unique requirements.
Recently, we have been asked several times about a solution that would enable the detailed tracking of video brochure usage by end users. After exploring this field, we decided not to pursue it, as it ultimately raises privacy concerns. That’s why we intentionally avoid embedding tracking technologies in our video brochures, mailers, and boxes. It’s a conscious choice rooted in respect for your audience, legal responsibility, and trust.
Public and Industry Concerns
In March 2025, DroneXL reported that a drone company distributed video mailers with embedded AT&T SIMs that tracked where and how often recipients played the content. This triggered some serious privacy concerns: Mailers logged recipient locations via cell towers across hundreds of U.S. sites. The tracking included the number of times each card was played, session durations, and other interactions. Some law enforcement agencies warned that such activity may infringe on, for example, California’s Electronic Communications Privacy Act (CalECPA) and the federal Electronic Communications Privacy Act.
The Case Against Tracking
Embedding tracking technology in video direct mail carries risks that extend far beyond marketing metrics: recipients may feel violated when their activity or location is monitored. Many jurisdictions require explicit consent for data collection—even passive or buried disclosures may not suffice. And once credibility is dented, it’s difficult to rebuild. Industry peers and clients may question your ethics.
We built this company over the last couple of years, garnering positive reviews and high satisfaction among our clientele. We are proud to work with a diverse range of businesses and organizations, including well-known brands, as well as political organizations and many others. In some cases, we have to sign a Non-disclosure agreement not to share the data our clients provide to us. We feel this technology goes against the interests of our clients and their customers.
At theVideoCards, we decided, for the time being, to avoid such technology. Our stand-alone devices deliver impact without the need for lawyers’ engagement. What’s in the card stays in the card. That means no logs beyond the USPS delivery report when a mailer reaches your client’s address (we do offer that tracking).
Our Goal
Our goal is to empower your marketing with impressive, visually rich video experiences:
- Premium-quality screens, with unmatched selection of sizes.
- Custom branding and packaging that resonates with your audience.
- Interactive elements and extra solutions, like our Presentation Boxes or touchscreens, that elevate the interaction or unboxing experience.
We’ll continue pushing the envelope in design and storytelling, but not in surveillance.
