Apple and Google workers stop snooping on your private audio recordings, for now

Apple and Google contractors have ended their programs to grade their respective AI-based voice assistants: Siri for Apple and the Assistant for Google. This has happened days after The Guardian revealed how Apple's human contractors listen to at least 1 per cent of total users' conversation with their Siri voice assistant, without their users' consent.

Now, Apple has finally suspended the program worldwide. Apple has also promised that it will offer users the option to opt out from such programs in the future and review the quality control process. This can only happen after Apple releases a new software update, though.

“We are committed to delivering a great Siri experience while protecting user privacy,” Apple said. “While we conduct a thorough review, we are suspending Siri grading globally. Additionally, as part of a future software update, users will have the ability to choose to participate in grading,” it added.

What about Google?

Recently, search giant Google was also caught sharing users' private recordings with its human contractors, who in turn would grade the Assistant's ability of voice recognition. Good news, Google has also finally suspended its program. Bad news, Google has suspended its program only in the European Union and that too temporarily. Yes, Google has promised to suspend the program for three months while German regulators are probing into its practices.

And Amazon...

Well, despite being the first company caught listening to users' Alexa recordings though human contractors, Amazon hasn't said (yet) whether it is pulling the plug on any of its practices, at least for now.

Why should you be bothered?

The only reason: Somebody is listening to your private recordings that also includes intimate details of your sexual encounters, medical details and what not! Whether or not it identifies you directly, it is still a huge privacy concern and it's time for you to take charge of the situation seriously.