Pronto admits recording inside Indian homes to train AI robots, IT Ministry probes

Bengaluru-based instant domestic services startup Pronto confirmed it recorded household tasks at 0.1% of customer homes to train physical AI robots, triggering privacy backlash and an IT Ministry investigation. Rivals Snabbit and Urban Company denied similar practices. Pronto recently raised a $20M extension to a $45M Series B.

— Source publishedMon, 25 May, 2026, 14:16 IST·First seen Mon, 25 May, 2026, 14:28 IST·Source Business Standard · Companies

What happened

Bengaluru-based instant domestic services startup Pronto admitted recording inside customers' homes to train physical AI robots, sparking privacy backlash. IT

Key facts

  • 0.1% of customers
  • 25,000 daily orders
  • $20 million extension round
  • $45 million Series B
  • $200 million valuation

Why this matters

Snabbit and Urban Company's swift denials hint at a brand-trust wedge opening up in domestic services, and a well-timed privacy-forward acquisition or partnership could capture share as Pronto navigates the IT Ministry investigation.