Amazon introduced the AI-powered Alexa+ voice assistant. Know its special features
Amazon has finally introduced the artificial intelligence (AI) version of its voice assistant, Alexa, named Alexa+. This new version is smarter, more intelligent and personalized than ever before, which will now be able to serve users better. Alexa+ can control smart home devices even better, book online appointments, and also work on behalf of the user over the Internet with agentic capability.
What is Alexa+ and how does it work?
Alexa+ is a generative AI-based voice assistant that works on Amazon’s Nova model. It adopts a multi-model approach, allowing it to also use third-party AI models through Amazon’s Bedrock platform. Apart from this, it also supports Anthropic’s large language models, which makes its features even stronger.
Amazon’s SVP, Panos Panay, who previously worked on Microsoft’s Surface devices, announced this upgrade. According to him, Alexa + has been made even more conversational, smart, and personalized. Alexa + will no longer be limited to just controlling smart home devices, but it can also play music, order groceries, and send reminders about event tickets.
Special features of Alexa +:
- Smart home control: Alexa + now not only controls smart home devices, but it can also provide information about package delivery and updates about visitors.
- Agentic capability: Alexa + can now complete online tasks on behalf of the user, such as booking repair services, shopping, and other tasks.
- Personalization: Alexa+ will now remember user preferences, such as shipping addresses, payment methods, and favorite content. It will provide a better experience to the user by understanding his habits and preferences.
- Computer Vision: Alexa+ can now scan documents and images, summarize them, and answer queries.
- Multi-Device Support: Conversations started on Alexa+ can be continued on other devices. With this feature, users will get the best connectivity and control experience in smart home devices.
Alexa+ Availability and Price:
Alexa+ will be available in all the places where Alexa already works. Apart from this, Amazon has also launched a new Android and iOS app and a web portal, allowing users to access Alexa+ from anywhere.
Alexa+ will start rolling out in a few weeks and will first be offered in the US through Early Access. It will be made available first on Echo Show 8, 10, 15, and 21 devices and will be released on other devices and platforms later.
It is priced at $19.99 (approximately Rs 1,740) per month, although those who are already Amazon Prime members will be able to use it for free.
