Virtual home technology assistants have captured families' hearts and minds by offering a host of user-friendly features. Techies enjoy setting voice-activated alarms, streaming podcasts, and gathering real-time news from the extended family member posted in the living room. Amazon's Alexa is the center of the most recognized devices, which mirrors other cloud-based services like Apple's Siri and Google Assistant. Manufacturers encourage buyers to integrate the software with cellular phones and wifi-enabled accessories for an innovative smart home experience.
According to consumer technology researcher Federica Laricchia, "In 2020, there will be 4.2 billion digital voice assistants being used in devices around the world. Forecasts suggest that by 2024, the number of digital voice assistants will reach 8.4 billion units - a number higher than the world's population." As voice recognition improves to carry out verbal demands, several users have reported feelings of being "listened to" by their smartphone or home device.
In complete transparency, we want consumers to know that the snooping suspicions are correct. Hidden within software updates are terms and conditions that legally allow electronic consent for quality improvement eavesdropping. Subsequently, personal conversations drive targeted advertisements that populate your internet sidebar and email inbox. Amazon recently admitted that the company employs real people to transcribe Echo recordings in users' homes. So, it is not a coincidence when your homepod influences online searches and digital ads; it's factual.
Also evident is the reality that virtual assistants secure copious amounts of unfiltered, longitudinal data about environmental dynamics. If Alexa malfunctioned and accidentally replayed your aggregate recordings in front of a live studio audience, which television sitcom family would best describe your tribe? Is the vibe warm and family-focused like the Soul Man household or riddled with the palpable tension of a Greenleaf episode? Is there knowledge to be gained from evaluating a past that could enhance the future?
At the time of printing, our survey indicated that 88% of the MSM community reportedly believed that Alexa was listening to their conversations offline. Disabling the voice-activated feature on assistive devices is a simple tool that eases consumer consciousness regarding corporate snooping. Powering down electronics when entering the home, not just at bedtime, may also mitigate angst associated with a listening Big Brother.
A "childfree" lifestyle is...
A. Ideal for my family.
B. Not ideal for my family.
C. New to me, Sis.
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