There are legitimate concerns around smart speakers and privacy, as these devices always seem to be listening but MSCHF's Alexagate was developed to support Amazon Echo users by offering them an easier way to turn off the mics. Kevin Wiesner, MSCHF’s creative director, describes Alexagate as an "aftermarket privacy adjustment" that helps consumers retrofit the popular smart speaker.
MSCHF is only selling a limited batch of the smart speaker accessories, which use seven ultrasonic speakers to jam Alexa's mic. Now, by clapping three times, Amazon Echo users can indicate whether they'd like to turn the mic on or off, as the smart speaker is always listening for the word "Alexa" so that it can provide assistance for a range of tasks.
Smart Speaker Privacy Caps
MSCHF's Jammer Device Addresses Smart Speakers and Privacy
Trend Themes
1. Smart Speaker Privacy - Development of aftermarket smart speaker privacy adjusting devices has emerged to address concerns around the always listening nature of devices.
2. Ultrasonic Speaker Technology - Innovative companies such as MSCHF are utilizing ultrasonic speaker technology to jam smart speakers, potentially disrupting the smart speaker and home assistant industries.
3. Active Mic Control - The ability to actively control smart speaker mics with simple gestures or voice commands is becoming an increasingly popular feature, with new opportunities for innovation in this space.
Industry Implications
1. Smart Home Devices - The development of smart speaker privacy caps could disrupt the smart home device industry, leading to new advancements in privacy control technology.
2. Consumer Electronics - The trend towards aftermarket privacy adjusting devices could create new opportunities in consumer electronics, particularly in the development of user-friendly, privacy-focused products.
3. Home Security - The emergence of ultrasonic speaker technology and active mic control in smart speakers could have implications for the home security industry, with potential for new innovations in surveillance and privacy monitoring.