Hands-On Tech 202: Stop Devices from Listening for Keyword Activations
Released on February 9, 2025
Introduction
In the February 9, 2025 episode of Hands-On Tech, hosted by Micah Sargent, the discussion centers on a prevalent concern among technology users: preventing devices from incessantly listening for keyword activations. This episode delves into the mechanics of how devices like Apple's Siri operate, addresses user apprehensions about privacy, and provides actionable steps to disable these listening features.
Understanding Keyword Activation
Micah Sargent begins by addressing Glenn's pressing question: "How do I turn off Apple from listening to what's going on in a room?" (01:54). Glenn's concern isn't about devices eavesdropping for advertising purposes but rather the unsettling feeling of being monitored without explicit consent. He describes his setup, which includes a Mac Studio, MacBook Pro, Apple Studio Display, and HomePods, where unintended activations trigger unsolicited responses from Siri.
To demystify the technology, Sargent employs an engaging analogy: “I like to imagine that the way that these keyword phrases work, it's almost like one of those toddler puzzle games... Only the square, the triangle, and the circle work.” (02:30). This comparison illustrates that devices aren't actively listening to everything but are programmed to detect specific "keyword triggers" amidst a sea of ambient sounds. When these keywords align correctly, the device activates, much like fitting the right shapes into a puzzle.
Addressing User Concerns
Sargent acknowledges the "creepiness factor" users like Glenn experience. He reassures listeners that, contrary to fears, devices are not transmitting all heard data to external servers. Instead, the keyword detection process is handled locally on the device. “It's not that actively. There's a connection between you and Apple somewhere on some server and it is listening to everything that's happening in the room...” (04:15). This clarification aims to alleviate concerns about potential privacy infringements.
Disabling Listening on Apple Devices
For users intent on disabling this feature, Sargent provides a clear, step-by-step guide:
- Accessing Settings: Launch the Home app on your Apple device.
- Selecting the Room: Navigate to the specific room where the HomePod is located, such as the office.
- Modifying Accessory Settings: Tap and hold the HomePod, then select Accessory Settings.
- Turning Off Siri Activation: Scroll to the Siri section and toggle off "Listen for Siri" or "Hey Siri".
“I have it turned off on my Mac because I never use Siri on my Mac and that's as simple as launching the system settings app...” (06:45).
Additionally, Sargent mentions that users can choose to retain manual access to Siri through the "Touch and Hold for Siri" option, allowing for occasional use without the device actively listening for keywords.
Comparisons to Other Devices
Expanding the discussion beyond Apple products, Sargent touches upon Amazon's Echo devices. He highlights a significant difference: “Amazon on almost all of its own devices makes this much simpler because you will find a physical hardware button or switch that will disable the microphone entirely...” (09:15). This hardware-based solution offers a tangible way to ensure microphones are not active, contrasting with Apple’s software-centric approach.
Additional Considerations
Sargent emphasizes that while disabling keyword activation enhances privacy, it also limits the convenience of voice-activated assistance. Users must balance their need for privacy with the functionality offered by these smart devices. Additionally, he briefly touches upon other devices that may have similar listening features, encouraging listeners to explore settings or hardware switches to manage their privacy preferences effectively.
Conclusion
The episode effectively demystifies the operation of keyword activation in smart devices, providing both reassurance and practical solutions for users concerned about privacy. By breaking down complex technological concepts into relatable analogies and offering clear instructions, Micah Sargent equips listeners with the knowledge to take control of their device settings. This episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their privacy in an increasingly connected world.
Notable Quotes
- “I like to imagine that the way that these keyword phrases work, it's almost like one of those toddler puzzle games...” — Micah Sargent (02:30)
- “It's not that actively. There's a connection between you and Apple somewhere on some server and it is listening to everything that's happening in the room...” — Micah Sargent (04:15)
- “Amazon on almost all of its own devices makes this much simpler because you will find a physical hardware button or switch that will disable the microphone entirely...” — Micah Sargent (09:15)