Amazon Unveils Alexa+ with AI Enhancements
Amazon has launched Alexa+, an upgraded version of its voice assistant designed to be more intuitive and conversational through the use of generative AI.
Alexa+, which is powered by AI, aims to provide users with more personalized experiences and improved smart home integration.
AI-Powered Features of Alexa+
Alexa+ is designed to simplify everyday tasks using its artificial intelligence capabilities. Amazon says it can help users with things like:
- Making reservations
- Summarizing complex topics
- Organizing schedules
- Discovering new music
The AI assistant will also integrate with various third-party services. These include OpenTable for dining reservations, Ticketmaster for event alerts, and Uber Eats for food delivery, providing a more comprehensive user experience.
“Alexa+ understands what you mean, and responds like a trusted assistant,” Amazon stated. The company has built the service on its large language models (LLMs) through Amazon Bedrock, enabling the assistant to take action across thousands of services and devices.
Enhanced Smart Home Capabilities
With more than 600 million Alexa-enabled devices currently in use, Alexa+ aims to increase smart home efficiency. The assistant can control devices like those from Philips Hue and Roborock, move music between speakers, and even alert users via Ring security cameras when someone approaches their home.
Moreover, Alexa+ will offer proactive assistance that can help users in their daily lives, such as:
- Suggesting early commutes based on traffic data
- Notifying users when a desired product goes on sale
Subscription and Availability
While Alexa+ is free for Amazon Prime members, non-members will need to pay a monthly subscription fee of $19.99 to access the service. The AI assistant will be accessible through Echo devices, a new mobile app, and a browser-based experience.
Amazon has announced a rollout of Alexa+ in the United States in the coming weeks. However, the company has not yet specified when the service will become available in other countries, including India. This has left Indian users eager to try the new features disappointed.
