A smart speaker is a type of wireless speaker and voice command device with an integrated virtual assistant that offers interactive actions and hands-free activation with the help of one "hot word" (or several "hot words"). Some smart speakers can also act as a smart device that utilizes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and other wireless protocol standards to extend usage beyond audio playback, such as to control home automation devices. This can include, but is not be limited to, features such as compatibility across a number of services and platforms, peer-to-peer connection through mesh networking, virtual assistants, and others. Each can have its own designated interface and features in-house, usually launched or controlled via application or home automation software.^[1] Some smart speakers also include a screen to show the user a visual response.

As of winter 2017, it is estimated by NPR and Edison Research that 39 million Americans (16% of the population over 18) own a smart speaker.^[2]

A smart speaker with a touchscreen is known as a smart display. While similar in form factor to tablet computers, smart displays differ in their emphasis on a hands-free user interface and virtual assistant features.^[3]

Privacy concerns

The built-in microphone in smart speakers are continuously listening for "hot words" followed by a command. However, these continuously listening microphones also raise privacy concerns among users.^[4] These privacy concerns include what is being recorded, how will the data be used, how it will be protected, and whether it will be used for invasive advertising.^[5][6] Further, an analysis of Amazon Alexa Echo Dots showed that 30–38% of "spurious audio recordings were human conversations", suggesting that these devices capture audio outside of strictly after hot word detection.^[7]

As a wiretap

There are strong concerns that the ever-listening microphone of smart speakers present a perfect candidate for a wiretap. In 2017, British security researcher Mark Barnes showed that pre-2017 Echos have exposed pins that allow for a compromised OS to be booted.^[8]

Voice assistance vs privacy

While voice assistants provide a valuable service, there can be some hesitation towards using them in various social contexts, such as in public or around other users.^[9] However, only more recently have users began interacting with voice assistants through an interaction with smart speakers rather than an interaction with the phone. On the phone, most voice assistants have the option to be engaged by a physical button (e.g., Siri with a long press of the home button) rather than solely hot word based engagement in a smart speaker. This distinction while increases the privacy by limiting when the microphone is on, users felt that having to press a button first removed the convenience of voice interaction. ^[10] This tradeoff is not unique to voice assistants, as more and more devices come online there is an increasing tradeoff between convenience and privacy.^[11]

Factors influencing adoption

While there are many factors influencing smart speaker adoption, specifically with regards to privacy, Lau et. al. define five distinct categories as pros and cons: convenience, identity as an early adopter, contributing factors, perceived lack of utility, and privacy and security concerns.^[4] These "pro" factors will have to overcome the "con" factors in order for adoption. However, not all users will necessarily be comfortable with smart speakers regardless of pros, as highly privacy conscious non-users may not trust companies to adhere to their terms of services.

Most popular smart speaker devices and platforms

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