security function and disables internet access, interrupting the download. If laptop software is compromised by air-gap malware, the user may activate the security switch and disconnect the speaker and microphone, so it can not establish communication with the device. History Google started to work on a hardware kill switch for AI in 2016. In 2019, Apple, and Google, along with a handful of smaller players, are designing “kill switches” that cut the power to the microphones or cameras in their devices. Googles first product that implemented this is Nest Hub Max. References External links Apple's T2 Security Chip Makes It Harder to Tap MacBook Mics, WIRED https://www.wired.com/story/apple-t2-security-chip-macbook-microphone/ The hardware trend Google and Apple are throwing their weight behind, Fast Company, 2019 https://www.fastcompany.com/90349731/the-hardware-trend-google-amazon-and-apple-are-throwing-their-weight-behind See also