On-Device vs Cloud AI Processing: What It Means for Office Hardware Privacy
Where AI processing happens — on the device or in the cloud — has real implications for enterprise buyers evaluating AI office hardware.
Published 2026-04-20 · AI Office Technology
What Happens On-Device
Wake-word detection and basic command recognition typically run on-device, meaning audio isn’t transmitted anywhere unless the wake word is detected — a meaningful privacy distinction for enterprise buyers.
What Gets Sent to the Cloud
Once triggered, the actual query (dictation content, translation request) is generally processed via cloud AI services for accuracy reasons current on-device models can’t yet match.
Why This Matters for Enterprise Procurement
Enterprise buyers in regulated industries increasingly ask hardware vendors to document exactly what data leaves the device and when — a question brands should be prepared to answer clearly, not just reference generally in a privacy policy.
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