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Amazon presents Alexa+ as a “next generation” assistant, and for once, the expression is not completely overused. Announced last year, this version is based on a completely revised architecture, capable of relying both on Amazon’s in-house models and those of partners like Anthropic. The goal is simple: use the right AI engine for the right task, without locking yourself into a single technology.
An Alexa that speaks much better than before
In fact, Alexa+ is closer to a conversational chatbot than the voice assistant of yesteryear. Exchanges are more natural, with discussions that can span several days and an ability to remember the context. Alexa no longer just starts a timer or gives the weather forecast: she can help plan a trip, suggest movies, organize a shared calendar, save recipes or lend a hand with homework.
Amazon also wants to push Alexa+ towards more “active” uses. Through integrations with services like Uber, OpenTable, Expedia, Ticketmaster or Yelp, the assistant can reserve a restaurant, order a ride or schedule a home service. In short, the assistant no longer just responds: it acts! Amazon, however, remains discreet about the real scale of these more autonomous uses, preferring to talk about potential rather than precise figures.
On the business side, Amazon is making a very calculated move. Alexa+ is included for free in the Prime subscription… but only in the United States. Members benefit from unlimited access on all compatible devices: Echo speakers, Fire TV, mobile application, Alexa.com site and partner products. Non-subscribers can opt for a free, limited version, or pay $19.99 per month for full access. A Price that places Alexa+ in the same league as the premium subscriptions of major chatbots.
The first feedback seems generally positive. Amazon claims that Alexa+ users have two to three times more conversations than before, that listening to music is increasing by 25% and that uses around recipes are exploding. The number of people returning to the old version of Alexa remains low, proof that the transplant has taken rather well.
Not everything was perfect though. During the testing phase, some users found Alexa+ too talkative, or even a little intrusive. Others didn’t like his new voice. Amazon says it has corrected the situation: better handling, more visible settings and the possibility of retaining Alexa’s “historical” voice, now enriched by AI.
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