As the COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of Americans to retreat to their homes this spring, media and technology habits have been reshaped, elevating voice-assisted technology to a starring role. Multi-tasking consumers juggling work, home and health concerns want – and need -- easy access news, information and entertainment and voice-activated devices deliver. Amid these challenging times, smart speakers and voice assistants have catapulted from being novelties to a vital household assistant. In early April, nearly half of Americans were working from home, and one-quarter of those said their routines had been impacted by the coronavirus crisis, according to The Spring 2020 Smart Audio Report by Edison Research and NPR which surveyed adults 18 years old and older on March 31 and April 1.
In a Pandemic, Voice Tech Takes Center Stage. NPR & Edison Research Report
