Smart Speakers - You Need One!
One of the most profound communication technologies that have risen to the mass market within the last decade is smart speakers. Yes, referring to the dawn of "Alexa" and Hey Google" -- each now ubiquitous phrases that we associate with a task-driven speaker that sits on our kitchen counter. Not only can they play your favorite playlists, but they can also take your everyday tech interaction to the next level. The ease of use, low price point, wide-market compatibility all make devices like the Amazon Echo (the most popular) or the Google Home stellar countertop contenders.
Now, what makes a speaker smart? It must have an integrated virtual "assistant" that offers hands-free use to complete various tasks or operations both in the immediate environment or online, like turning off the lights or ordering laundry detergent. They are quite powerful pieces of technology that we now have the ability to place in each and every room of the house if we so desire.
There is certainly speculation regarding the inherent safety and security of these devices specifically about where the audio gets stored and when the device listens. However, have a microphone mute switch to keep full privacy an option. Smart speakers are definitely one of the most profound communication technologies at the forefront of bringing wide-market accessibility to many budget-minded individuals.
Fruhlinger, Joshua. “Amazon's Echo Dot Is the Most-Popular Smart Speaker by a Large Margin.” Thinknum Media, Thinknum, 1 June 2018, media.thinknum.com/articles/amazons-echo-dot-is-the-most-popular-smart-speaker-by-a-large-margin/.
As somehow who has a smart speaker I can totally relate to this. My roommates and I have a google home and when it comes to things like playing music when friends are over, or setting a timer when something is in the oven it comes in handy. It's those little simple things that tend to make a smart speaker worth it, it's almost like our most simplest needs are things we don't even realize or prioritize. Things you don't even realize you care that much about until you're able to say things like "hey google play a song on Spotify" that makes all the difference.
ReplyDelete- Hannah Van Pay
I find your points very interesting with their ease of use and low price point they certainly are very convenient in daily life. In contrast, you have to wonder about both security and privacy. As both devices likely track things like search history and what devices they are contented to. Which for some people is trivial, however others wonder about the legal ramifications which are the debate of many, what if questions. Surely smart speakers are an innovation in voice recognition and home automation but will they stand the test of time?
ReplyDeleteTai Fong
I think your points are very interesting and that’s often what I think of smart speakers. I have a google home and I have it connected to LED lighting in my room as well as some lamps and stuff and it is very efficient. Although, there are times where I will be talking to someone and it will pick up and start talking or answering a question, and it freaks me out.
ReplyDeleteOh yes! Speakers have grown over the past decade. I relate so much because I do have an Alexa and am just in love with the simple fact that I can call on her and she can answer what I need as well as play a station that I would like to listen to during the moment. Privacy is an issue which I have my things on mute because I do believe that anyone could be listening to what I am talking about that is personal as well as know my location sometimes. Makes me very skeptical about purchasing these new improved speakers but it is also worth it with the technology continuing to grow.
ReplyDelete-Khaila Jacquet