Transformation of everyday life of the older in the context of using smart speakers with Artificial Intelligence

The changes in the daily practices of the older generation who use devices with AI at home, such as smart speakers, are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the role of such technologies in mitigating loneliness-related experiences in the context of regular communication with digital assistants. The empirical basis of the study consists of data from semi-structured interviews (N = 20) with informants who live separately in St. Petersburg and have experience interacting with smart speakers. During the analysis, two interrelated thematic lines are identified that reflect the integration of devices into everyday life: the specifics of communication and interaction with a smart speaker, as well as overcoming feelings of social isolation in the process of using it. It is shown that the inclusion of smart speakers in the home environment is accompanied by a transformation of the usual forms of organization of everyday life and communication.

The study results indicate that the use of smart speakers contributes to the rethinking of everyday life and the formation of new communication practices. These devices are beginning to play a significant role in older people’s lifestyle, becoming an element of transformations affecting everyday and social interactions. In some cases, they partially perform the functions previously assigned to interpersonal communication, and are included in the communication system along with live interlocutors.

Of particular importance is the contribution of such technologies to the mitigation of emotional states associated with isolation and limited social contacts. An essential aspect of this process is the device domestication, as well as endowing it with special characteristics and capabilities, primarily the ability to “listen”, which is perceived by informants as a distinctive feature compared to communicating with other people. Awareness of the specifics of interaction with a smart speaker, understanding the principles of its functioning and the limits of its capabilities contributes to the consistent inclusion of device in communication practices and its sustainable integration into home culture.

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