It is in the hardware. You can take one apart and see for yourself. These devices will not activate unless they at least think they hear the hotword. Once activated though, nothing is stopping them from staying on. Although Im sure you can just watch their internet traffic to prove if its listening in the moment.
You'd have to do that 24/7 though, if I understand correctly, because these devices can be updated at will.
I understand your point of view if you distrust all Android devices, iPhones and MacBooks. However, most people who say they would never use a smart speaker, happily use their laptop or smart-phone without thinking twice.
Re:Yes, Amazon Is Tracking People
by notyourwork on Saturday July 07, 2018 @09:38AM
(#17478443)
Of those voice assistant companies, what poor track record are you referencing?
HAH. Says who?? Are you seriously going to trust companies with a terrible track record and every incentive to do this, are you going to trust them not to use their always on listening device to listen to you? I swear I don't say this to derail the conversation but I literally cannot fathom in my head how you can think like that unless you're a paid shill.