A new survey revealed that at around 16 percent of Americans currently own a smart speaker. The study, comprised of both a telephone and online survey, was conducted by the National Public Radio (NPR) with the assistance of Edison Research. According to the survey, 16 percent of Americans aged 18 and above already own a smart speaker, which translates to around 39 million people, marking a 128 percent growth in users compared to the same period last year. 11 percent of the US population currently owns an Amazon Alexa smart speaker while four percent already possess a Google Home device. During the holiday season, seven percent of the country’s population either bought such a device or received a smart speaker as a gift, while four percent of Americans got their first smart speakers.
The survey also suggests that smart speakers have changed the habits and behaviors of people who own them. Some of the activities that were replaced by interactions with smart speakers include listening to traditional AM/FM radio, using smartphones, or watching television. It is also interesting to note that 17 percent of users mentioned that they use their smart speakers in place of dedicated audio systems. People who have smart speakers commonly use these products to control household appliances and purchase items online. Moreover, at least 71 percent of the owners have indicated that they have been listening to more audio after acquiring a smart speaker, while 28 percent stated that they are now listening to more news and talk shows. When they are with their friends or family, people who possess smart speakers usually ask their assistants to either play music or answer general questions. Another trend that has been highlighted in the survey is that 44 percent of people who own smart speakers have also started using the personal assistants on their smartphones.
Also based on the survey conducted by the broadcaster, it seems that the majority of owners are satisfied with their devices. In fact, 65 percent of people who possess a smart speaker said that they would not want to go back to their lives without such an IoT device. In addition, 51 percent of users disclosed that they are using their smart speakers more often now compared to their first month of owning the device.
