Research by Ofcom – the UK government's regulatory authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries – has revealed that smart speakers have helped people living alone feel less lonely and given people with disabilities a stronger sense of independence.
During an in-depth survey, some described their device as a companion and said they enjoyed talking to it.
Some respondents with disabilities said that the device has had a significant impact on their lives, giving them greater independence and helping them manage, and even improve, their conditions and abilities.
One person said: “It's really a change in privacy. My caregivers don't have to keep getting up every five minutes. Like this evening, I was able to ask the speaker to just turn on the lights. Years ago, before I had this facility...I would have to ask people to do things by hand."
Research participants said they mainly used the speakers to listen to music, radio, news and weather updates.
