Amazon Echo Ending 'Do Not Send Voice Recordings' Feature

Changes to Local Voice Processing for Amazon Echo Devices

Users of Amazon Echo devices are facing a shift in how their voice interactions are handled. The option to process Alexa voice recordings directly on the device will be discontinued for most functions.

Previously, some recordings were processed locally. Now, with limited exceptions such as wake word detection, these recordings will be transmitted to Amazon’s cloud infrastructure.

Notification to Affected Users

Ars Technica reported that Amazon notified customers utilizing the “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” setting. This notification, delivered via email, indicated the feature’s termination date of March 28th.

The email specified that devices impacted include the fourth generation Echo Dot, Echo Show 10, and Echo Show 15.

Rationale Behind the Change

According to Amazon, the decision stems from the expansion of Alexa’s capabilities. Specifically, new generative AI features require the substantial processing power available within Amazon’s secure cloud environment.

The company stated it is prioritizing features that leverage cloud processing for enhanced functionality.

Context of Alexa and Privacy Concerns

This change occurs alongside the introduction of a new iteration of the voice assistant, now branded as Alexa+. Privacy concerns surrounding Alexa have been previously voiced by both consumers and regulatory bodies.

In 2023, Amazon reached a $25 million settlement with the Federal Trade Commission regarding children’s privacy issues.

Amazon’s Response to Privacy Concerns

In a statement provided to TechCrunch, Amazon reaffirmed its commitment to user privacy and data security. The company emphasized that its core principles regarding privacy remain unchanged.

Amazon is concentrating on enhancing the privacy tools and controls most frequently used by customers, while simultaneously supporting generative AI experiences that depend on cloud-based processing.

This article has been updated to include a statement from Amazon.