AllYouCanTech

Alexa Will Now Consistently Transmit Voice Recordings to Amazon

# **Amazon to Eliminate “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” Option on Echo Devices**

Amazon has revealed plans to eliminate a privacy feature that permits certain Echo device owners to stop Alexa from transmitting voice recordings to the cloud. This modification, set to commence on **March 28, 2025**, has sparked worries among users who are concerned about privacy and relied on this feature for securing their voice interactions.

## **What Is Changing?**
At present, a selection of Echo devices enables users to activate a **”Do Not Send Voice Recordings”** option, ensuring that Alexa handles voice commands locally instead of forwarding them to Amazon’s cloud servers. However, Amazon has opted to remove this functionality.

An email sent to those affected informed them that this change is part of Amazon’s initiative to enhance Alexa’s features with **generative AI**, which necessitates cloud-based processing.

When the change takes place:
– The **”Do Not Send Voice Recordings”** setting will no longer be accessible.
– Users who do not respond will see their settings automatically changed to **”Don’t save recordings.”**
– Voice recordings will continue to be sent to the cloud for processing but will be deleted right away.
– **Voice ID** will cease to operate, and users will be unable to create a new Voice ID unless they consent to recordings being saved.

## **Amazon’s Explanation**
Amazon spokesperson **Lauren Raemhild** articulated the rationale behind this decision, indicating that the company is prioritizing privacy tools that align with the incoming **AI-powered Alexa+** experience. She reassured consumers that Amazon remains dedicated to privacy and security, stressing that users will still have the option to stop their recordings from being retained.

## **Who Is Affected?**
The **local processing** capability was limited to a select number of devices, including:
– **Echo Dot (4th Gen)**
– **Echo Show 10**
– **Echo Show 15**

Moreover, this feature was only available to **U.S. users** with their devices configured to **English**. If your Echo device does not meet these criteria, you likely never had access to this feature initially.

## **The Link to Alexa+**
The elimination of this feature seems to be part of Amazon’s wider strategy to introduce **Alexa+**, a more sophisticated AI-driven version of its voice assistant. Although Amazon has not formally disclosed a release date for Alexa+, the timing of this modification implies that the launch could begin around **March 28, 2025**.

## **What Can Users Do?**
If you have privacy concerns, you still have several alternatives:
1. **Activate “Don’t Save Recordings”** – Although Alexa will still transmit voice data to the cloud, it will be removed immediately post-processing.
2. **Delete Voice Recordings Manually** – Users can regularly erase their Alexa voice history using the Alexa app.
3. **Disable Alexa’s Microphone** – Certain Echo devices feature a physical microphone mute button that stops Alexa from listening.
4. **Explore Alternative Smart Assistants** – For those prioritizing privacy, other smart assistants may provide more robust local processing options.

## **Final Thoughts**
Amazon’s choice to remove the **”Do Not Send Voice Recordings”** option underscores the increasing dependence on cloud-based AI processing. While this change facilitates more sophisticated Alexa functionalities, it also raises issues regarding user privacy and data protection.

As the technology sector shifts towards more AI-centric experiences, users must consider the advantages of improved features against potential privacy compromises. For the time being, Echo users should assess their settings and determine how they wish to handle their voice data before this change takes effect in **March 2025**.

The 10 Most Watched TV Shows Available on Apple TV+, Hulu, Max, Prime Video, Disney+, and Paramount+

# The 10 Unmissable TV Shows Captivating Streaming This Week

In the continually changing realm of streaming content, some TV shows seize viewers’ interest and lead the ratings. This week, the latest **Reelgood Top 10** roster showcases a blend of beloved returners, exciting debuts, and hidden gems that have taken over platforms such as **Apple TV+, Hulu, Max, Prime Video, Disney+, and Paramount+**.

Taking the top spot? A cerebral thriller that has emerged as one of Apple TV+’s most discussed shows. Following that, we find a variety of crime stories, conspiracy narratives, and even a sports comedy being likened to *Ted Lasso*.

If you’re on the hunt for your next binge-worthy series, here’s a detailed look at the **top 10 streaming TV shows this week**.

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## **1. Severance (Apple TV+)**
🎭 **Genre:** Sci-Fi, Thriller
⭐ **Why Watch:** Season 2 is packed with even more shocking revelations and existential tension.

Apple TV+’s *Severance* remains an essential watch as its second season races toward a suspenseful conclusion. The series centers on employees at Lumon Industries who experience a procedure that divides their work and personal memories. As the enigma unfolds, Mark and his team unveil unsettling truths about their workplace.

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## **2. Paradise (Hulu)**
🎭 **Genre:** Thriller, Mystery
⭐ **Why Watch:** An engrossing conspiracy thriller featuring Sterling K. Brown.

*Paradise* chronicles a man on a quest to find his missing wife, leading him to uncover a perilous network of secrets. This Hulu original is brimming with suspense, making it a top choice for mystery aficionados.

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## **3. The White Lotus (Max)**
🎭 **Genre:** Drama, Dark Comedy
⭐ **Why Watch:** A lavish backdrop filled with scandal, satire, and shocking turns.

HBO’s *The White Lotus* continues to enthrall viewers with its exploration of affluent resort guests and the employees catering to them. The latest season introduces fresh characters and even greater drama.

—

## **4. Reacher (Prime Video)**
🎭 **Genre:** Action, Thriller
⭐ **Why Watch:** A gritty, action-driven adaptation of the Jack Reacher series.

Alan Ritchson stars as Jack Reacher, a former military investigator tackling perilous conspiracies with his keen intellect and physical prowess. If you enjoy high-octane thrillers, this series is for you.

—

## **5. Daredevil: Born Again (Disney+)**
🎭 **Genre:** Superhero, Action
⭐ **Why Watch:** The return of Charlie Cox as Daredevil in a darker, edgier MCU.

Marvel enthusiasts are thrilled for *Daredevil: Born Again*, reviving Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock and Vincent D’Onofrio as Kingpin. This reboot guarantees intense action and ethical dilemmas.

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## **6. Running Point (Netflix)**
🎭 **Genre:** Comedy, Sports
⭐ **Why Watch:** Kate Hudson stars in a side-splitting sports sitcom.

Netflix’s *Running Point* follows Isla Gordon (Kate Hudson), a former party girl who unexpectedly inherits her family’s failing basketball team. Its humor and heart draw comparisons to *Ted Lasso*.

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## **7. Zero Day (Netflix)**
🎭 **Genre:** Political Thriller
⭐ **Why Watch:** Robert De Niro leads in a high-stakes cyber conspiracy drama.

*Zero Day* depicts a former U.S. president dragged into a worldwide cyber conspiracy. With De Niro at the helm, this series is essential viewing for fans of political thrillers.

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## **8. The Pitt (Max)**
🎭 **Genre:** Medical Drama
⭐ **Why Watch:** A gripping real-time medical narrative from the creators of *ER*.

This latest medical series chronicles doctors and nurses dealing with critical emergencies in real time. Max has already committed to a second season, showcasing its widespread appeal.

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## **9. Yellowjackets (Paramount+ With Showtime)**
🎭 **Genre:** Thriller, Survival
⭐ **Why Watch:** A haunting survival tale infused with psychological horror.

*Yellowjackets* follows a high school soccer team stranded in the wild after a plane crash. As the survivors fight for survival, dark secrets surface. The newly released Season 3 escalates the tension further.

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## **10. Deli Boys (Hulu)**
🎭 **Genre:** Comedy, Crime
⭐ **Why Watch:** A comedic crime story about two brothers discovering their father’s hidden life.

When two privileged Pakistani American brothers lose their father, they uncover his secret criminal empire. *Deli Boys* humorously combines crime in a way that is both engaging and surprising.

Google Assistant to Be Supplanted by Gemini AI on the Majority of Mobile Devices in 2025

# **Gemini AI Set to Replace Google Assistant: Essential Information**

Google is undertaking a significant overhaul of its artificial intelligence (AI) approach by substituting Google Assistant with its more sophisticated AI model, **Gemini**. This change is anticipated to be finalized by the conclusion of 2025, signifying the end of nearly ten years of Google Assistant’s existence on mobile platforms.

## **What Is Occurring?**
Google has declared that **Gemini AI will take the place of Google Assistant** on the majority of mobile devices, encompassing smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and even smart home gadgets. The sole exceptions will be devices operating on **Android 9 or earlier** with **fewer than 2GB of RAM**.

As reported by Google, millions of users have already transitioned to Gemini, and the company is now gearing up to **automatically upgrade** the remaining users in the upcoming months. By the end of 2025, Google Assistant will no longer be available on most mobile devices nor can it be newly downloaded.

## **Which Devices Will Be Impacted?**
The shift to Gemini AI won’t be confined to smartphones. Google intends to embed Gemini in:
– **Tablets**
– **Smartwatches**
– **Vehicles**
– **Headphones**
– **Smart home gadgets** (including speakers, smart displays, and televisions)

In essence, if a device is internet-connected and formerly supported Google Assistant, it will soon operate on Gemini.

## **What Sets Gemini Apart from Google Assistant?**
Google has shared a **comparison** outlining the distinctions between Google Assistant and Gemini AI, emphasizing functional differences. While Gemini can handle most of the duties that Google Assistant managed—like setting reminders, checking the weather, and sending messages—**the primary distinction is that Gemini operates on AI technology**.

This implies that Gemini is crafted to be **more conversational, contextually aware, and proficient in managing intricate queries**. It also incorporates **Google’s latest AI innovations**, transforming it into a more potent virtual assistant.

## **Implications for Users**
For those who depend on Google Assistant, this transition could present both **advantages and hurdles**:
– **Enhanced AI functions**: Gemini is predicted to be more perceptive and responsive.
– **Natural interactions**: The AI model is geared towards a better contextual understanding.
– **Possible adjustment period**: Users may require time to familiarize themselves with the new interface and features.

Google has reassured users that it is **dedicated to enhancing the Gemini experience**, particularly for those who have relied on Google Assistant for an extended period.

## **Impact on Apple**
Google’s transition to Gemini comes at a time when **Apple is facing challenges with its own AI-integrated Siri upgrade**. Reports indicate that Apple has postponed its **AI-enhanced Siri revamp to 2026**, which has been internally categorized as an **“ugly and embarrassing”** shortcoming. While Google and other technology firms are progressing in their AI developments, Apple seems to be lagging behind.

## **Concluding Thoughts**
The transition from Google Assistant to Gemini AI represents a crucial advancement in Google’s AI approach. Though some users may feel apprehensive about this change, Gemini is set to offer **more sophisticated AI functionalities** for daily tasks.

As the shift progresses, users can anticipate **automatic upgrades** and a more AI-centric experience across their devices. Whether this transition will be smooth or disruptive is yet to be determined, but one thing is certain: **AI is becoming increasingly integrated into our digital lives than ever before**.