Barricelli, Barbara Rita, Bondioli, Alessandro, Fogli, Daniela, Iemmolo, Letizia, and Locoro, Angela
Subjects
*AMAZON Echo, *GOOGLE Home, *INTELLIGENT personal assistants, *RESEARCH questions, *SMARTPHONES
Abstract
Nowadays, end users can create routines for Amazon Echo and Google Nest devices using a companion app (Amazon Alexa and Google Home, respectively) running on smartphones. Our work explores the possibility of transferring this End-User Development activity directly to the smart speakers, with and without a touchscreen. To this aim, we designed and developed two Amazon Skills (one for Amazon Echo Show and the other for Amazon Echo Dot) and two Google Actions (one for Google Nest Hub and the other for Google Home Speaker). Then, we carried out two controlled experiments, involving 40 participants, to compare routine creation through multi-modal interaction (based on vision, speech, and touch) with routine creation through speech-only interaction. Driven by our research questions, we found that for routine creation the multi-modal interaction is preferred to the speech-only one and the perceived quality of interaction seems to depend on the brand of the smart speaker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
This article examines the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential effects on society. It defines AI as a broad term encompassing various levels of intelligence, including artificial narrow intelligence (ANI), artificial general intelligence (AGI), and artificial super intelligence (ASI). ANI refers to current AI systems that perform specific tasks, while AGI aims to replicate human-level intelligence and self-awareness. ASI, the most advanced form of AI, surpasses human intelligence and presents potential risks. The article also explores the concept of sentience in AI and its implications for rights and protection. It further discusses how AI can address issues of loneliness and social isolation, particularly among older adults, by providing companionship and support. The article presents different perspectives on AI's impact on human relationships, with some arguing that AI lacks the self-awareness and sentience necessary for genuine connection, while others believe it can help combat loneliness and build confidence. The article also highlights the positive applications of AI in healthcare, climate change, and other fields. However, concerns are raised regarding AI-generated content and copyright infringement. The article emphasizes the importance of regulation and ethical considerations in the development and use of AI. [Extracted from the article]
AMAZON Echo, GEMINI (Chatbot), SMART speakers, GOOGLE Home, PHYSICAL laws, SMART devices, INTELLIGENT personal assistants, TALL buildings, MUSIC stores
Abstract
This document provides a comparison of various smart speakers, virtual assistants, and smart displays to help library patrons make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences. It highlights the importance of considering factors such as ecosystem, size, audio quality, streaming service support, smart product compatibility, privacy concerns, and features when purchasing a smart speaker. The Apple HomePod and Amazon Echo are recommended as top choices, each offering unique advantages. The document also evaluates the performance of virtual assistants Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant in providing local information. Additionally, it discusses the features, functionality, and price of smart displays like the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub. The article concludes by discussing the limitations and potential future developments of smart speakers. [Extracted from the article]
The article discusses various smart home upgrades for different areas of the house, such as the kitchen, living room, outdoors, office, bathroom, and bedroom. It highlights products like smart fridges, smoke alarms, ovens, smart plugs, security cameras, smart thermostats, robot vacuums, outdoor security cameras, smart garage door openers, smart scales, smart showers, smart taps, smart speakers, smart lights, air monitors, window sensors, smart switches, smart blinds, smart mattresses, and air purifiers. These products offer convenience, security, energy efficiency, and customization options for users looking to enhance their living spaces with technology. [Extracted from the article]
INFORMATION technology, CONSUMER behavior, SOCIAL scientists, ARTIFICIAL intelligence, AMAZON Echo, PODCASTING, IPHONE (Smartphone)
Abstract
PC Pro magazine celebrates its 30th anniversary by compiling a list of the 30 most significant events in technology from 1994 to 2024. The list includes the launch of PC Pro magazine, the rise of Amazon as an online retailer, the introduction of Sony's PlayStation, the release of Windows 95, the emergence of 3D graphics in PC gaming, IBM's Deep Blue defeating Garry Kasparov in chess, the founding of Google, Steve Jobs' return to Apple, the establishment of Wi-Fi standards, and the impact of Napster on the music industry. The article acknowledges that these choices may not be universally agreed upon, but invites readers to engage in discussion and share their own perspectives. [Extracted from the article]
Smart glasses have not taken off globally as expected. Unfortunately, limited research exists on the factors critical to consumer acceptance of this novel technology. This study fills this gap by investigating how individuals perceive the usefulness and intention to use smart glasses. Using an augmented value-attitude-behaviour (VAB) model, we analyze Amazon Echo Frames to examine consumer utility perception. Wearable comfort, perceived fashionability, and lifestyle compatibility play a significant role in how valuable consumers find smart glasses. This, in turn, influences their attitude and intention to use. Interestingly, price sensitivity negatively moderates the link between perceived value and attitude toward the product but not attitude-intention to use. Overall, our findings explain 78.6% of why people may adopt smart glasses, offering valuable insights for both research and industry to improve their design and marketing strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
TELEVISION in security systems, VIDEO surveillance, HOME computer networks, AMAZON Echo, USB technology, ANTENNAS (Electronics), OUTDOOR living spaces
Abstract
This article provides a review of six outdoor security cameras, including the Eve Outdoor Cam, Ring Stick Up Cam Pro, Septekon P30i Wi-Fi Outdoor IP Camera, Swann AllSecure 4K, Tapo C410 Smart Wire-Free Security Camera, and Ring Battery Video Doorbell Pro. The cameras are evaluated based on factors such as installation ease, feature set, and video quality. The article concludes that the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is the overall winner due to its affordability, convenience, and range of features. However, it also highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, allowing readers to make an informed decision based on their individual needs. [Extracted from the article]
*AMAZON Echo, *DIGITAL music, *SMART devices, *INTELLIGENT personal assistants, *MICROPHONES
Abstract
The WiiM Amp is a value-priced multi-room audio streaming amplifier that offers a rich set of features and capabilities. It can stream music to multiple speakers throughout the house and is compatible with popular music services, voice assistants, and streaming protocols. The amp has a streamlined design with simple controls and can handle high-resolution audio. While it may not match the musicality of more expensive options, it provides a convenient and connected audio experience for everyday listening and smart-home integration. The WiiM Amp is a cost-effective choice for creating a multi-room sound system. [Extracted from the article]
The article discusses Apple's recent release of the Vision Pro, a $3,500 VR headset, and praises the company for taking risks and getting "weird" with its products. The author suggests that Apple should continue to experiment and release more unconventional products, such as foldable iPhones, folding iPads, and screenless health bands. They also propose the idea of a laptop running iOS instead of macOS and suggest that Apple should explore new directions in home tech. The article acknowledges the potential risks of these experiments but argues that they could lead to innovative and successful products. [Extracted from the article]
The article discusses the importance of teaching students effective problem-solving skills in today's information-on-demand society, emphasizing the need for educators to foster student self-discovery and resilience. It highlights strategies for guiding students through problem-solving processes, including the use of questioning techniques and promoting ownership of problems, while also acknowledging the role of frustration in learning and the evolving landscape of technological assistance.
FATHER'S Day gifts, DAYLIGHT, NATURAL ventilation, AMAZON Echo, AIR filters, PLYWOOD
Abstract
This article from Wood Magazine showcases Henry Sawicki's well-organized and efficient woodworking shop, located in southern California. The shop is surrounded by natural beauty and features large windows that provide a view of the surrounding hillside. Henry has incorporated smart technology into his shop, including voice- and phone-controlled devices such as an air compressor, dust collector, exterior lighting, and a mini-split heat pump. The shop is also designed to maximize flow and accommodate larger projects, with machinery placed on mobile bases and safety tape on the floor to indicate walking paths. Additionally, Henry has added storage using lateral file cabinets and has incorporated a mesh WiFi system and Amazon Alexa app for control and entertainment. The article includes photographs of the shop and its various features. [Extracted from the article]
Smart speakers have the role of a hub for a smart home system because of convenience in controlling IoT devices with a voice command. Therefore, a smart speaker can be a new target for an attacker to infiltrate into the smart home system. As menial helpers today fill in as passage focuses to individuals' homes apparatuses and gadget regulators, getting these focuses has gotten basic, with keeping up the client's protection being first concern. Amazon Echo was launched in 2016 and is not just a savvy speaker yet works as an insightful menial helper which communicates with other different Alexa-empowered gadgets to oversee other IoT gadgets, stay associated, play music and buy books, and put together one's day. Alexa is integrated in both home and organizations to equip with remote management to help closely monitor the lives, activities of both home and organizations, seamless interaction and increasing productivity. Amazon Echo has an application that gives users ability to customize their preferences and control which is called Amazon Alexa App. Users from this app can personalize their preferences. Amazon Alexa is quipped to protect user's privacy through transparency. However, the research had highlighted certain vulnerabilities found on Amazon Echo such as in hardware, software and network and their impacts. The research further described the methods of attacks used by adversaries on these vulnerabilities found. Nevertheless, the research provided with organizational security, operational security, and the methods to deploy to defend and safeguard the automation of an organization or home based on the vulnerabilities discovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
*TECHNOLOGICAL innovations, *ADMISSIBLE evidence, *AMAZON Echo, *CRIMINAL procedure, *EXPERT evidence, FEDERAL Rules of Evidence (U.S.)
Abstract
The article discusses the challenges and considerations involved in admitting electronically stored information (ESI) and other new technology as evidence in legal proceedings. It emphasizes the importance of reliability in determining the admissibility of new methods or technologies and explores the categories of evidence and rules of evidence that apply to different types of technology. The article also addresses issues such as discoverability, authentication, and the conveyance of information by machines. It acknowledges that the advancement of artificial intelligence presents uncharted territory for evidence law but suggests that existing rules provide a reliable foundation for addressing these challenges. [Extracted from the article]
Kate Crawford is a respected researcher and academic who specializes in technology, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI). She has drawn attention to the social, political, and ethical consequences of AI, particularly its environmental impact and potential to reinforce human biases. Crawford's expertise is evident in her book "Atlas of AI: Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence," and she has been recognized as one of the most influential figures in the AI field by Time magazine. In addition to her academic work, Crawford has explored the intersection of technology and feminism and has been involved in the music industry. She believes it is crucial to critically examine the societal implications and power dynamics of AI systems, and she has undertaken creative projects, such as "Anatomy of an AI System," to visually depict the complex processes behind popular devices like Amazon's Alexa. Crawford's work aims to raise awareness of the social and environmental issues associated with AI and advocates for stronger regulation to address these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and prioritizing human values over technological dominance. [Extracted from the article]
SMART television devices, SPARE parts, GOOGLE Home, AMAZON Echo
Abstract
This article discusses the issue of manufacturers ending support for their products, which can make them obsolete and potentially unsafe to use. It provides guidance on how to check if your PC's processor and SSD are still receiving updates, as well as how to determine if your laptop is considered a "legacy" product. The article also covers the lifespan of graphics cards and the expiration dates of Microsoft Surface laptops and Google Chromebooks. It addresses the support and update policies for Android phones and tablets, as well as obsolete iPhones and iPads. The goal is to help readers identify devices that may need to be replaced to ensure optimal performance and security. The article also provides information on various electronic devices and their support status, such as Apple ending hardware support for its obsolete devices but still providing security updates, Amazon guaranteeing software and security updates for Kindles for at least four years, the importance of regularly updating software on smart TVs to avoid losing important features and apps, the need for routers to have the latest software and security updates to protect against hackers, limited support from manufacturers for smart doorbells, cameras, and speakers, and the potential requirement for ink pad replacement in Epson printers after reaching a certain cycle count. [Extracted from the article]
When new technologies like smart speaker assistants (SSAs) enter private spaces, new threats to privacy emerge. Drawing on the concepts of privacy work [Nippert-Eng, C. E. (2010). Islands of privacy. University of Chicago Press.] and contextual integrity [Nissenbaum, H. F. (2010). Privacy in context: Technology, policy, and the integrity of social life. Stanford Law Books.], this study uses qualitative interviews to explore two questions about SSAs: (1) Which kinds of privacy work do users do?, and (2) What rationales underlie users' privacy perceptions? We identify a variety of new types of privacy work, such as limiting the dissemination of one's voice data to a single company, or interrupting conversations during accidental SSA activation. We also identify new privacy rationales including anticipated consequences of information leaks, the importance of users' privacy skills and awareness, and the role of choice in whether and how to use SSAs. Based on our analysis of privacy rationales, we propose an expansion of the model of contextual integrity [Nissenbaum, H. F. (2010). Privacy in context: Technology, policy, and the integrity of social life. Stanford Law Books.] to improve our ability to understand how users perceive privacy with SSAs and other voluntarily adopted home information technologies. Furthermore, we find that even SSA users who say they have no privacy concerns actually work to protect their privacy. These results complicate previous theory which said that privacy concerns lead to protective behaviour because they suggest that the relationship between these two concepts may be reversed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
AMAZON Echo, LANGUAGE models, MICROSOFT operating systems, SMART speakers
Abstract
This article covers a range of topics including Google Maps errors, Internet Explorer in Windows 11, transferring Windows 10 to a new PC, PC beeping, playing DVDs on a PC, copyright concerns with AI-generated content, and troubleshooting various tech issues. It offers solutions such as reporting mapping errors to Google Maps, creating digital signposts for farm locations, and troubleshooting tips for PC beeping and DVD playback problems. The article also addresses reader questions about copyright issues with OpenAI, website domain and hosting packages, Apple Music app troubleshooting, laptop screen black spots, Bluetooth vs smart speakers, and the absence of a Rows tab in LibreOffice Writer's Table Properties box. It provides explanations, suggestions, and resources to help users address these issues. [Extracted from the article]
AMAZON Echo, HOME energy costs, SMART devices, SMART meters, INTELLIGENT personal assistants
Abstract
This article discusses the benefits and uses of smart plugs, which are affordable and practical devices that can turn standard home appliances into smart ones. Smart plugs offer various functions, such as deterring burglars by automatically turning lights on, monitoring electricity usage to save energy, and controlling multiple devices from a single wall socket. They can be controlled through smartphone apps and are compatible with different smart-home systems. The article also provides recommendations for different smart plug models and explains how to set up and use a specific brand of smart plug. It addresses compatibility issues with Wi-Fi networks and offers a solution for connecting smart plugs to 2.4GHz networks. [Extracted from the article]
Plex will refresh its listing from each of your libraries and add what it finds to the Plex Media Server, with albums represented by their cover art. SETTING UP PLEX MEDIA SERVER ON A RASPBERRY PI It may be convenient to run Plex on your desktop, but your songs will only be available while the computer's powered on and awake. SETTING UP PLEX MEDIA SERVER ON WINDOWS The first thing you need is a free Plex account. There's no official way to stream from Plex to a Google Home device using voice commands, but you can use the Plex mobile app to stream music to any Chromecast-compatible receiver. [Extracted from the article]
Your Plex Media Server is now up and running, and you can find and play music files from any web browser by connecting to the computer running the server software on port 32400. Plex will refresh its listing from each of your libraries and add what it finds to the Plex Media Server, with albums represented by their cover art. Setting up Plex Media Server on a Raspberry Pi It may be convenient to run Plex on your regular Windows desktop, but it means your songs will only be available while the computer's powered on and awake. Setting up Plex Media Server on Windows The first thing you need is a free Plex account. [Extracted from the article]
In this research, we present an algorithm that leverages language-transformer technologies to automate the generation of product requirements, utilizing E-Shop consumer reviews as a data source. Our methodology combines classical natural language processing techniques with diverse functions derived from transformer concepts, including keyword and summary generation. To effectively capture the most critical requirements, we employ the opportunity matrix as a robust mechanism for identifying and prioritizing urgent needs. Utilizing transformer technologies, mainly through the implementation of summarization and sentiment analysis, we can extract fundamental requirements from consumer assessments. As a practical demonstration, we apply our technology to analyze the ratings of the Amazon echo dot, showcasing our algorithm's superiority over conventional approaches by extracting human-readable problem descriptions to identify critical user needs. The results of our study exemplify the potential of transformer-enhanced opportunity mining in advancing the requirements-elicitation processes. Our approach streamlines product improvement by extracting human-readable problem descriptions from E-Shop consumer reviews, augmenting operational efficiency, and facilitating decision-making. These findings underscore the transformative impact of incorporating transformer technologies within requirements engineering, paving the way for more effective and scalable algorithms to elicit and address user needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Strohmann, Timo, Siemon, Dominik, Khosrawi-Rad, Bijan, and Robra-Bissantz, Susanne
Subjects
*INTELLIGENT personal assistants, *AVATARS (Virtual reality), *VIRTUAL design, *AMAZON Echo, *LANGUAGE models, *MENTAL health services, *PSYCHOLOGICAL well-being, *VIRTUAL communities
Abstract
While the theories of human-human interaction guided us in the initial conceptualization of the VCS concept, as well as the associated DP1 regarding human-like design (Krämer et al., [88]), these should be understood as supporting literature (Möller et al., [108]), rather than representing the ideal image of a VCS design. The evolution of CAs from being simple virtual assistants or chatbots to virtual companions designed to have a benevolent and long-term relationship with humans, can be explained primarily by the fact that humans often mindlessly apply the same social heuristics used in human interaction to the CA when they display characteristics similar to those of humans (Moon, [109]). HT
Term
Description
Virtual Companionship (VCS)
A collaborative and friendly long-term relationship between a human and a machine, in which VCS comprises adaptability, an appropriate human-like appearance, human-like behavior, understanding of and adaption to the user, proactive and reciprocal behavior, and preserving of transparency, privacy, and ethics. As with usage intention, stimulating companionship and help were rated higher for the interaction with I Sarah i than for the interaction with the virtual assistant (Usage intention: Z = 6.38, p <.001; Stimulating companionship: Z = 10.91, p <.001; Help: Z = 12.39, p <.001), meaning that I Sarah i has a better collaborative and friendly long-term relationship with the user (supporting TP5 and TP2). In building a theoretical framework for VCS, we first turn to basic human-human interaction theories and discuss their applicability to human-machine interaction, as these provide us with a starting point to explain VCS (Krämer et al., [88], [90]). [Extracted from the article]
Claim: it is important for VUIs to be able to integrate with other devices and digital... The ability of VUI devices to integrate with other devices, named "interoperability" in one news article (Adler, [1]), and services is often mentioned by the media as a significant selling point of VUIs (Adler, [1]; Foster, [35]; Quain, [73]; NY Times, [65]), however this aspect as related to perception and adoption of VUIs by older adults remains under-investigated by academic literature. Their inductive thematic analysis uncovered four major themes in the mass media messaging of voice user interfaces for older adults: perception and adoption of VUIs by older adults, embeddedness in older adults' lifestyles, changes that VUIs can bring to older adults' lives, and the impact of trends toward VUIs. This paper acted as a steppingstone to find for relevant academic literature on older adults' perceptions of VUIs (largely relevant to media articles for Theme 1: Perceptions of Adoption of VUIs by Older Adults) and VUIs' benefit for older adults (largely relevant to media articles for Theme 2: Embeddedness in Older Adults' Lifestyles and Theme 3: Changes that VUIs Can Bring to Older Adults' Lives). These were: older adults' current perception and adoption of VUIs, the degree to which VUIs can be embedded in older adults' lives, the changes VUIs can bring to older adults, and the impact of external forces on the VUI market on older adults' perceptions of VUIs. [Extracted from the article]
Across four studies, Kim, Lee, Kim, Kim, and Duhachek show that use of AI agents by firms increases consumers' unethical behaviors, as consumers anticipate feeling less guilt when lying to a robotic AI agent (vs. human). Artificial intelligence (AI) - or intelligence demonstrated by machines and systems which had traditionally been displayed by humans (Huang & Rust, [15]) - is rapidly changing the retail and service landscape (Guha et al., [12]; Noble et al., [33]). More consumer receptivity could lead to stronger consumer/robot and consumer/company relationships, higher sales for the company, and perhaps more consumer information disclosure, which can be used by the company for more personalized products and services in the future (Thomaz et al., [43]). [Extracted from the article]
AMAZON Echo, SMART homes, MOBILE apps, STREAMING video & television, STREAM function, SMART television devices
Abstract
Copyright of PC Welt Plus is the property of IDG Communications, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
SMART locks, DIGITAL technology, AMAZON Echo, GOOGLE Home, TELEVISION in security systems, SMART devices, NEAR field communication
Abstract
Smart locks are a convenient and secure way to protect your home. They offer keyless entry methods such as key codes, NFC fobs, fingerprint readers, or smartphone apps. These locks can be remotely controlled and allow access to trusted individuals while you're away. It is important to choose a trusted brand and ensure compatibility with your existing door. Prices for smart locks start at £100, but additional features like remote access may require extra hardware. Smart locks are battery-powered and can still be used during power outages. [Extracted from the article]
INTERNET of things, INTELLIGENT personal assistants, HOME automation, HOME wireless technology, MOBILE apps
Abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of objects that can exchange data with other devices also connected to the Internet. One of the most common consumer examples of IoT is home automation, as a variety of smart devices, including doorbells, lightbulbs, thermostats, and refrigerators are now available which users can control remotely using mobile apps or smart speakers. In this hands-on activity, students will apply their basic skills in accessing wireless networks and using mobile devices to connect an Amazon Echo smart speaker to a home network, configure smart plugs to communicate with the Echo, and develop routines to interact with the smart plugs, smartphones, and other smart devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
In March 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights stated that they would use discretion when enforcing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act regarding remote communication technologies that promoted telehealth delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was in an effort to protect patients, clinicians, and staff. More recently, smart speakers—voice-activated, hands-free devices—are being proposed as productivity tools within hospitals. We aimed to characterize the novel use of smart speakers in the emergency department (ED). A retrospective observational study of Amazon Echo Show® utilization from May 2020 to October 2020 in a large academic Northeast health system ED. Voice commands and queries were classified as either patient care–related or non-patient care–related, and then further subcategorized to explore the content of given commands. Of 1232 commands analyzed, 200 (16.23%) were determined to be patient care–related. Of these commands, 155 (77.5%) were clinical in nature (i.e., "drop in on triage") and 23 (11.5%) were environment-enhancing commands (i.e., "play calming sounds"). Among non-patient care–related commands, 644 (62.4%) were for entertainment. Among all commands, 804 (65.3%) were during night-shift hours, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Smart speakers showed notable engagement, primarily being used for patient communication and entertainment. Future studies should examine content of patient care conversations using these devices, effects on frontline staff wellbeing, productivity, patient satisfaction, and even explore opportunities for "smart" hospital rooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Smart speakers equipped with intelligent voice processing functions, like Siri and Amazon Echo, have become widespread globally. However, their recording and networking capabilities spur concerns about users' privacy. In this research, we report the results of a text-mining analysis of customers' perception of privacy in smart speakers. The corpus comprises over 4,500 reviews of the Echo line of smart speakers collected from Amazon. Smart speakers owners appear to be mostly oblivious to privacy issues since the fraction of those mentioning privacy in their reviews is largely below 3%. The average sentiment towards privacy is positive, though the average hides a significant fraction exhibiting a negative sentiment. However, those negative perceptions do not affect the overall sentiment polarity towards the product, which stays positive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
This article provides tips on how to download and play audiobooks for free. One option is to borrow audiobooks from your local library using apps like Libby, Overdrive, or BorrowBox. However, the availability of audiobooks may be limited, and you don't own the audiobook, so you can't change its format or keep it forever. Another option is to listen to audiobooks for free through Amazon Echo or Google Nest devices, although the selection may be limited. Additionally, you can download and keep audiobooks from LibriVox, which offers free recordings of books in the public domain. Lastly, you can play audiobooks read by AI software from the Project Gutenberg Open Audiobook Collection, and you can download and keep these audiobooks. The article also provides instructions on how to split audiobooks into smaller sections and transfer them to your phone for listening on the go. [Extracted from the article]
Han, Yichen, Han, Christopher Bo, Chen, Chen, Lee, Peng Wei, Hogarth, Michael, Moore, Alison A., Weibel, Nadir, and Farcas, Emilia
Subjects
ECOLOGICAL momentary assessments (Clinical psychology), OLDER people, AMAZON Echo, DATA visualization, QUALITY of life
Abstract
Population aging is an increasingly important consideration for health care in the 21th century, and continuing to have access and interact with digital health information is a key challenge for aging populations. Voice-based Intelligent Virtual Assistants (IVAs) are promising to improve the Quality of Life (QoL) of older adults, and coupled with Ecological Momentary Assessments (EMA) they can be effective to collect important health information from older adults, especially when it comes to repeated time-based events. However, this same EMA data is hard to access for the older adult: although the newest IVAs are equipped with a display, the effectiveness of visualizing time–series based EMA data on standalone IVAs has not been explored. To investigate the potential opportunities for visualizing time–series based EMA data on standalone IVAs, we designed a prototype system, where older adults are able to query and examine the time–series EMA data on Amazon Echo Show — a widely used commercially available standalone screen–based IVA. We conducted a preliminary semi–structured interview with a geriatrician and an older adult, and identified three findings that should be carefully considered when designing such visualizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
PROBLEM solving, TWO-dimensional bar codes, COMPUTER storage devices, AMAZON Echo, APPLE Watch, IPHONE (Smartphone)
Abstract
I use Windows 8.1 and would like to update to Windows 10 (I'm not interested in Windows 11). The Microsoft PC Health Check app (www.snipca.com/46934) shows it passes everything apart from the processor. Q My PC has gone through numerous versions of Windows, up to Windows 10. PROBLEM OF THE FORTNIGHT Why is Thunderbird forcing me to use Gmail?. [Extracted from the article]
INVESTORS, DECISION making, INDIVIDUAL investors, AMAZON Echo, INVESTMENT information
Abstract
Information modality refers to the use of different sensory channels to process information when making decisions: for example audible or visual information. This study examines the impact of information modality on investors making financial decisions. A Repertory Grid analysis is performed to derive features and functionality to create an Amazon Echo Show system for financial decision-making. This system is used to present a mixture of both audio and visual information to facilitate financial decision-making. The system is tested through the lens of the modality effect to determine the best method of presenting financial data to investors to inform their decision-making. Findings show the inferiority of audible information over visual information for retail investors' decision-making, especially for numerical data. However, with adjustments in information length and by prioritising non-numerical data, audible information could be of significant benefit when designing future systems to aid investor decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
The Lenovo Tech World event in Seattle focused on the theme of "Smarter AI for all," with a significant emphasis on AI in the cloud and partnerships. Key takeaways included the surprising collaboration between AMD and Intel to shape the future of the x86 architecture, the introduction of Lenovo AI Now for personalized AI assistance, advancements in server cooling technology, and innovative AI applications in healthcare, such as monitoring patients post-surgery and aiding individuals with Alzheimer's. Additionally, Lenovo showcased new hardware, including the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 10 Aura Edition, featuring Intel's Core Ultra 200V processors and AI-based features. [Extracted from the article]
FEATURES Once upon a time, enjoying a great home entertainment system required a lot of money for the equipment and often the help of professional installers to make it all work together. OUR ADVICE The smart speakers with the best audio quality have gone beyond just sounding good for smart speakers - now they can really do justice to your favorite music. Motion blur evaluates how well the display can present a blur-free image during motion scenes. [Extracted from the article]
This little $99 device connects to your Wi - Fi router and acts as a bridge between your Nest devices and the Home app on your Apple devices (from starlinghome.io). The router settings within the Home app allow you to apply "restricted" status to any of your other HomeKit devices, ensuring that they only accept commands from the Home app on your Apple devices, and are also blocked from going beyond your home network and connecting to the wider internet. HomeKit does work well on Apple devices, allowing you to control all your HomeKit - compatible devices using either the Home app or Siri voice commands. TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS What to do if your HomeKit devices do not appear to work as expected 1 Log in to your Apple ID The Home app links to your Apple ID, so make sure that all your Apple devices are logged in to the same Apple ID in order to control your smart devices. [Extracted from the article]
Since its launch in 2014, Amazon Echo family of devices has seen a considerable increase in adaptation in consumer homes and offices. With a market worth millions of dollars, Echo is used for diverse tasks such as accessing online information, making phone calls, purchasing items, and controlling the smart home. Echo offers user-friendly voice interaction to automate everyday tasks making it a massive success. Though many people view Amazon Echo as a helpful assistant at home or office, few know its underlying security and privacy implications. In this paper, we present the findings of our research on Amazon Echo’s security and privacy concerns. The findings are divided into different categories by vulnerability or attacks. The proposed mitigation(s) to the vulnerabilities are also presented in the paper. We conclude that though numerous privacy concerns and security vulnerabilities associated with the device are mitigated, many vulnerabilities still need to be addressed.
Voice assistant devices, such as Google Home™ and Amazon Echo™, are at the forefront of natural voice interaction and natural language search through the removal of any graphical user interface (GUI). This user experience study is one of the first to compare information foraging using Google Home versus search behaviors using a traditional computer or desktop in a learning environment. We conducted research (N = 20) to investigate information foraging and retrieval behaviors of participants and measure query effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction. Participants were separated into two distinct groups. The experimental group used the Google Home smart speaker to retrieve information for predefined question sets in the following categories: research, trivia, and math. The control group sought to answer the same question set using more traditional technologies including computers, tablets, cell phones, and calculators. The results show that participants with voice assistants found the correct answers almost two times faster for research and trivia questions and three times faster for math questions than participants using traditional technologies. User satisfaction also scores much higher with voice assistants than with traditional systems. Yet, despite these results, we found that privacy concerns, limited searchable databases, and voice-recognition challenges are all limiting factors to the adoption and widespread use of voice assistants. To reach the full promise of relative efficiency and user satisfaction favoring voice assistants over traditional systems, these weaknesses must be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Puntoni, Stefano, Reczek, Rebecca Walker, Giesler, Markus, and Botti, Simona
Subjects
UNIVERSITY & college admission, RELATIONSHIP marketing, CUSTOMER experience, AMAZON Echo, COST effectiveness, CONSUMER behavior
Abstract
The article discusses that artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled marketing technology promises to make consumers happier and more efficient, but managers should pay attention to consumers' anxieties. Companies can provide more value for consumers individually if they find when and why consumers feel misinterpreted by AI. Companies should share their audit processes and outcomes to ensure that regulations are passed in the name of consumer welfare to protect consumers from exploitation.
Stoecker, Daniel, Schimkus, Nicole, and Soiné, Alice
Subjects
HUMAN-machine relationship, AMAZON Echo, HUMAN-computer interaction, DIGITAL technology, PRIVACY, AMBIVALENCE, INTERNET privacy
Abstract
Copyright of AugenBlick is the property of Schueren Verlag GmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Businesses need to use sentiment analysis, powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning to forecast accurately whether or not consumers are satisfied with their offerings. This paper uses a deep learning model to analyze thousands of reviews of Amazon Alexa to predict customer sentiment. The proposed model can be directly applied to any company with an online presence to detect customer sentiment from their reviews automatically. This research aims to present a suitable method for analyzing the users' reviews of Amazon Echo and categorizing them into positive or negative thoughts. A dataset containing reviews of 3150 users has been used in this research work. Initially, a word cloud of positive and negative reviews was plotted, which gave a lot of insight from the text data. After that, a deep learning model using a multinomial naive Bayesian classifier was built and trained using 80% of the dataset. Then the remaining 20% of the dataset was used to test the model. The proposed model gives 93% accuracy. The proposed model has also been compared with four models used in the same domain, outperforming three. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Automatic speech recognition (ASR) in children is a rapidly evolving field, as children become more accustomed to interacting with virtual assistants, such as Amazon Echo, Cortana, and other smart speakers, and it has advanced the human–computer interaction in recent generations. Furthermore, non-native children are observed to exhibit a diverse range of reading errors during second language (L2) acquisition, such as lexical disfluency, hesitations, intra-word switching, and word repetitions, which are not yet addressed, resulting in ASR's struggle to recognize non-native children's speech. The main objective of this study is to develop a non-native children's speech recognition system on top of feature-space discriminative models, such as feature-space maximum mutual information (fMMI) and boosted feature-space maximum mutual information (fbMMI). Harnessing the collaborative power of speed perturbation-based data augmentation on the original children's speech corpora yields an effective performance. The corpus focuses on different speaking styles of children, together with read speech and spontaneous speech, in order to investigate the impact of non-native children's L2 speaking proficiency on speech recognition systems. The experiments revealed that feature-space MMI models with steadily increasing speed perturbation factors outperform traditional ASR baseline models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]