Amazon is mandating cloud-based processing for Echo voice commands, removing local storage and disabling Alexa’s voice ID to expand its generative AI capabilities.

CNET reported a few weeks ago that Amazon is preparing to remove a key privacy setting in its smart home devices. Today it goes into effect. Here's what it means.

Amazon is removing a key privacy feature from its Echo smart speakers — and Alexa+ is to blame. On March 28, Amazon will remove the ability to have Alexa process your voice requests locally, and will start sending all of your recordings to the cloud to be processed there, rather on your Echo device itself.