Amazon has recently declared that Alexa users will no longer have the ability to handle voice commands locally. Instead, all voice recordings will be kept on Amazon’s servers, no matter the user’s preference. This development raises serious concerns regarding privacy.
The silver lining? There are alternative smart home devices that provide enhanced privacy safeguards. While it’s true that no internet-enabled microphone is entirely private, certain companies deliver greater control over how your information is processed. Here are two prominent alternatives to take into account.
### **Apple**
Apple’s **HomePod** smart devices operate in a manner similar to the Amazon Echo, enabling users to pose questions and receive answers from Siri. In terms of privacy, there are advantages and disadvantages.
As per [Apple’s privacy guidelines](https://www.apple.com/legal/privacy/data/en/ask-siri-dictation/), some requests are handled directly on the device itself, while others are transmitted to Apple’s servers. A visual cue will indicate which method is being utilized. Regrettably, there’s no guarantee that all requests will remain local. Nonetheless, Apple claims that audio recordings are not retained unless users choose to opt in.
Moreover, Apple does not link request data—be it voice recordings or text transcripts—to a user’s personal information. Instead, a random identifier is assigned, and all requests are severed from that identifier after a six-month period. This method provides a higher degree of privacy compared to Amazon.
### **Google**
Google Nest devices similarly allow users some control over their data. By modifying your [activity preferences](https://myactivity.google.com/activitycontrols?pli=1&settings=app), you can decide what information is saved to your Google account, including voice interactions. Crucially, Google does not, by default, keep audio recordings on its servers.
For further privacy, Google provides auto-delete options, enabling users to eliminate stored data after a defined time.
### **Final Thoughts**
Using any voice-activated smart device inherently carries security risks. However, in terms of preventing companies from retaining your audio data without permission, Apple and Google currently deliver superior privacy safeguards compared to Amazon.