Well, I was sorta kidding…although I do still have a landline. Completely serious about VCRs though. Nobody makes them anymore! kek
How about this: It is said that the average person unwittingly commits three felonies a day. Total surveillance combined with strict law enforcement would have people constantly getting locked up for violating vague, unnecessary laws.
Well I would guess that they would need to introduce evidence into court that was gained as a result of watching or listening to you through your device, television, car, etc., without a warrant or even probable cause, which isn't really happening yet. At some point, their plan must have been to make the public aware of the surveillance so it could then be used against you.