#247 May 30th, 2022 [Listening In]

If you’re old enough to remember the pulsing sounds of static interference that your cell phone caused when it was around any speaker just as you were about to get a phone call, you'll want to listen up. If you aren't old enough to remember that, smart speakers and microphones have been ubiquitous enough in your daily life that it doesn’t really matter. 

You should still listen up though. You may also want to avoid talking freely if a mic is nearby.

When confronted with a deadline she has put off for far too long, Julia sits down in front of her computer and finally starts to write. To get into the mood she directs her trusty smart speaker to play some jazz radio. After some high hats and splashy snare beats, she hears a couple as they’re getting busy. Confused, she prompts the speaker for more jazz but it changes to overhear a mother and her child chatting before nap time.

Julia bobs and weaves through an otherwise mundane day in what we learn is a new apartment. She and her partner Noah, who suspiciously avoids eating and showers a lot, just moved to NYC for his new job. Despite having so much to do, her mind remains fixed on this smart speaker and the enticing opportunity to eavesdrop.

All of this serves as a backdrop for Listening In. The thoughts that creep into mind as you hear Julia navigate the uneasiness of a new environment and a sentient smart speaker aren’t likely to be new. Listening In nudges you in directions you’re familiar with; all thanks to advances in technology, machine learning, and home entertainment. In a short time, a whole new product category emerged exactly where those three domains intersect. 

On the other side of this creepy coin is eavesdropping. Everyone does it. We all think we are good at it. Some people are even professionals at it. No matter how you cut it though, once you figure out someone has spied on you or overheard you, it always feels like a gross violation of privacy. 

Like anything from QCODE, Listening In offers entertainment, escapism, and mystery. Don't believe us? Ask your smart assistant.

Have a listen and let us know what you think,

Stephen and EvanYour Podcast Delivery crew

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