The AI Assistant Revolution Is Quietly Happening—Literally

Is AI already powering your smart speaker? In this episode, Steven and Shaun explore how Google Gemini and Alexa’s new "Plus" mode are quietly transforming smart speakers. With real-world demos from listeners John and David, you'll hear how these assistants now understand complex questions, process documents, and even interact naturally. Plus, the team discusses why smart home integration still lags behind and whether we should trust tech that's always listening.

Steven and Shaun kick off the week with a deep dive into smart speaker upgrades—specifically, Google Gemini’s hidden rollout and Alexa’s new "Plus" AI mode. Listener John Dyer demonstrates how his Nest Audio speaker responds to complex queries with impressive context and accuracy, likely indicating early Gemini integration. Meanwhile, David Ward shares how Alexa Plus can read emailed PDFs, summarize newsletters, and interact naturally with attachments—revealing some surprising new features.

The conversation expands into frustrations with subscription services, cancelation difficulties, and AI’s growing role in creating accessible (and sometimes inaccessible) content. The hosts debate the ethical implications of ever-listening devices and the privacy concerns around AI-driven assistants. They also touch on smart home limitations, the slow pace of hardware updates, and the need for smarter device-to-AI integration.

It's an episode full of honest insights, listener feedback, and playful banter—with plenty of tech talk that matters to blind and low-vision users.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:37 - Why we were off on Monday!
03:22 - Double Tap Extra is now even easier to enjoy!
14:17 - John Dyer demos Google Gemini on his Nest Audio smart speaker
28:55 - Get in touch with Double Tap
29:49 - David Ward demonstrates Alexa Plus
42:28 - Listener Callie on Apple Music not reporting artist names on the Amazon Echo
46:51 - Listener Gregory talks about his experience of Alexa Plus

Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

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About Double Tap

Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

 

"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.