A function of a user-controlled virtual assistant (UCVA) device, such as a smart speaker, can be augmented using video or image information about an environment. In an example, a system for augmenting an UCVA device includes an image sensor configured to monitor an environment, a processor circuit configured to receive image information from the image sensor and use artificial intelligence to discern a presence of one or more known individuals in the environment from one or more other features in the environment. The system can include an interface coupled to the processor circuit and configured to provide identification information to the UCVA device about the one or more known human beings in the environment. The UCVA device can be configured by the identification information to update an operating mode of the UCVA device.