Amazon will stop allowing local voice processing on Alexa

Amazon will soon make significant changes to its Alexa virtual assistant that could affect user privacy. Beginning March 28, the company will eliminate the option for users to stop their voice commands from being sent to Amazon's servers. This decision is part of an upgrade called “Alexa+,” which introduces new generative AI features. Amazon claims these features require more computing power than what the devices can offer alone. Previously, some Alexa users could keep their voice commands on their devices and process them locally to ensure privacy. Critics are unhappy with this change, as it removes the “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” setting that many used to maintain their privacy. Only a small percentage of users, about 0.3 percent, utilized local processing, which Amazon suggests is why they are making this change. There have been privacy concerns regarding Alexa in the past, including instances of unintended recordings and Amazon's practice of having employees listen to recordings to improve the service. Despite these issues, Amazon assures customers that their data is secure and emphasizes that upgrading Alexa is essential for a better user experience. Many users, however, are questioning how much control they have over their personal information and how closely Amazon is monitoring their conversations.