Why should the device share its connection with you?
As to the cost, one of the main selling points of 5G networks is their suitability for large-scale low-bandwidth uses (IoT), usage tracking among them. Samsung and others will be able to collect data from millions of devices at a very modest cost. Ericsson etc expect billions of new devices on 5G networks in the next five years. Networks are being designed for a minimum of one million devices per square km (0.39 sq mi), what do you think they will be?
We've already seen built-in connectivity. Some Amazon Kindles used to have free Amazon-provided 3G connection that worked in most of North America, Europe and other more developed parts of the world. It's only a matter of time before it becomes universal.
Samsung is launching their first 5G-enabled TV this year. 5G is there for 8K over-the-air streaming service, but can (and I am certain that will) be used for tracking purposes too, even if not subscribed to anything. The hardware is there and the cost is minimal - so why not?
How? Bricking a device on purpose is a huge liability. Much easier to install a cheap 5G modem and keep it on as long as data collected is worth more than the peanuts 5G connection will cost to bulk buyers.
"Doesn't work without a connection" is not bricking, and even actual bricking through shutdown of related cloud services happens all the time and doesn't seem to cause that much trouble for companies.
Though, it's only a small step for it to report home which WiFi network is the strongest, even if it never connects, for a Google App on the TV to know who I am.
Not that it matters a ton to me. I just don't want another vector for ads, and you can bet that an always on connection will be used to tell me what streaming services the TV can offer me this week if I'd only feed it my WiFi password.
