Amazon is discontinuing a previously available privacy feature on select Echo smart speakers. This feature allowed users to process voice commands locally, without sending audio data to Amazon’s cloud servers. Starting March 28, the “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” option will no longer be supported.
In an email to affected customers, Amazon explained the decision was made to align with the expansion of Alexa’s capabilities, particularly those involving cloud-based generative artificial intelligence. This shift necessitates cloud processing for improved functionality. The feature was limited in scope, impacting only a small percentage of users.
The “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” option was only accessible on three devices: the 4th generation Echo Dot, the Echo Show 10, and the Echo Show 15. Furthermore, its availability was restricted to U.S. customers with devices set to the English language. According to Amazon, the feature was used by fewer than 0.03% of its customers.
Users will still retain the option to prevent Alexa from storing voice recordings. Those previously utilizing the “Do Not Send” feature will be automatically transitioned to the “Don’t save recordings” option. Amazon emphasized its commitment to customer privacy in a statement, stating, “The Alexa experience is designed to protect our customers’ privacy and keep their data secure, and that’s not changing. We’re focusing on the privacy tools and controls that our customers use most and work well with generative AI experiences that rely on the processing power of Amazon’s secure cloud.”
