Amazon removes local voice processing option for Echo devices
Amazon is removing the option for Echo device users to process voice commands locally without cloud transmission, with the change taking effect 28 March 2025. The company says the cloud processing is necessary for Alexa+ generative AI features and that it will automatically delete recordings after processing, but the change eliminates user choice over data transmission and applies to all devices regardless of Alexa+ subscription.
What happened
Amazon announced that as of 28 March 2025, all voice recordings from Echo devices will be automatically sent to Amazon's cloud servers. Previously, users had the option to enable 'Do Not Send Voice Recordings,' which allowed local processing of voice commands without cloud transmission.
The change is being made to support new features in Alexa+, Amazon's new AI-powered version of its voice assistant, which requires cloud processing for generative AI functionality. According to Amazon Deutschland, the change affects only US customers whose devices were set to English, as the option was available only in that market. Amazon stated it would automatically update privacy settings for affected customers to delete voice recordings after processing, rather than storing them.
Reported impact
Users who previously had the option disabled can no longer prevent their voice commands from being sent to Amazon's servers, eliminating user choice over data transmission. The feature removal applies to all Echo models regardless of whether users subscribe to Alexa+.
Index analysis
Amazon's removal of local voice processing reflects a shift from privacy-first design to cloud-dependent processing required by generative AI capabilities. The company has previously faced criticism over voice data handling, including a 2023 settlement of 25 million US dollars after voice recordings of child interactions with Alexa were found to be permanently stored, and instances where users were not adequately informed that their recordings were being retained.
Governance controls
Amazon stated that the Alexa experience is designed to protect customer privacy and data security, and that customers can still choose tools and controls including the option not to store voice recordings at all.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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