Just to give a bit more insight into Alexa:
With the right equipment, you can do a lot with Alexa. I use it to control lighting in several rooms. I have a hub for that connected to my router and special bulbs with WLAN. I use an app with a fence function that automatically switches on selected lights when I come home (or switch them off when leaving). I also use Alexa and special radiator thermostats to regulate temperature (when I‘m on the road and I want it cozy, I can give remote commands), I have a calendar file imported into an Alexa app (so called ”skill“) that will tell me when garbage is picked up if I ask. I can turn on the coffee machine while still in bed. I can say ”Add milk to my shopping list” which is then added to the shopping list on my iPhone. Using a service called IFTTT (If This Then That), I can program dependencies such as ”If sunset, turn on lights” or ”If outside temperature drops below zero, turn on all heaters“ (literally thousands of things you can do). I can listen to Podcasts, radio, my own music or connect my smartphone/ TV via bluetooth. Alexa has a lot of useful skills but most people probably only use a few.
Alexa is always listening AFAIK but only records when you say ”Alexa” (it sometimes reacts when you say a similar word like ”Alexander“).
Yes, privacy is an issue but when I murder someone, I usually plug it off. <- just kidding!