Amazon is refuting claims that Anthropic’s AI model is the driving force behind the latest enhancements to its Alexa devices.
Reports, originating from CNBC, suggested that Anthropic’s Claude large language model was handling a significant portion of customer inquiries for the newly upgraded Alexa. However, Amazon has dismissed this information as “false.”
“Over the past four weeks Nova handled over 70% of conversations—including complex requests,” an Amazon spokesperson stated in an email, referring to the company’s internal AI model. The spokesperson emphasized that, from a customer standpoint, this distinction is not crucial, as both models deliver a superior user experience.
Last week, PYMNTS reported on the revamped Alexa, noting its integration of generative artificial intelligence to enhance its conversational abilities. This upgraded version, termed Alexa+, is designed to facilitate tasks like grocery ordering, ride-hailing via Uber, and scheduling repair services. It also allows users to send text messages, browse websites, and complete other tasks through Alexa.com and a new mobile app.
The launch of Alexa+ was preceded by delays, and also caused some discussion regarding the potential for inaccuracies in its responses. The company first announced its plans to infuse AI into Alexa about a year and a half ago. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy commented on the shift in AI capabilities. “Up until a couple years ago, it was pretty difficult to invent with AI, and that changed with the arrival of foundational models and generative AI. This made the technology much more accessible, so people can see the power and magic of what generative AI can do,” he said.
In a separate report, PYMNTS highlighted that the new Alexa aligns with previous research into voice-controlled devices. The report stated that: “The next frontier is approaching … and nearly two-thirds of Americans have already used this up-and-coming technology in the past year. This advancement, of course, is voice technology. Consumers want to make everyday routines smart, simple and more connected, and hands-free voice technologies can fit the bill. Consumers can already use voice technology to find information, identify themselves via voice assistant, or find and book airline tickets, among other possibilities.”
