How? By putting in cellular or sat connections in secret? Because the FCC would be very interested in someone selling unlabeled and unlicensed radio containing equipment.

By connecting to open wi-fi, supposedly, maybe with the help of some kind of dark pattern: https://www.reddit.com/r/security/comments/bpjky4/worried_ab...

Would it need to be labeled if they were plugging in a 5G pci-e/USB WAN module?

Yes

You wrap it in tin foil

It's a TV, wrapped in tinfoil you won't be able to see anything anymore.

You could, but you need Star Trek materials:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Star_Trek_materials#Tr...

We have a house without any Internet connection - that would require at least a mobile link.

Don't worry, in a few years they will have their own sim card and network.

This behavior is despicable and we must not accept it just because "I wouldn't connect the network cable/wifi anyway". Because one day that isn't an option and by then it is already too late.

They are missing a trick with peer to peer piggy backs.

You can see what devices are connected to your router for one. Also not if you: factory reset or change the password.

No open wifi networks nearby.

Which could be impossible in a dense city with Xfinity access points.

Aren’t Xfinity APs only for Xfinity subscribers? I doubt they’re just wide open. Now if a TV manufacturer struck a deal with an ISP and gave it its own access point to join...