What is Alexa+ and how does it work?
Alexa+ is a generative AI-based voice assistant that runs on the Nova model of Amazon. It adopts a multi-model approach, so that it can also use third-party AI models via Amazon’s Foundation platform. According to Amazon blog, it also supports large language models of Anthropic.
Amazon’s SVP Panos Panay, who has previously worked on Microsoft’s Floor devices, announced the upgrade. He said that Alexa+ has been made more convenient, more smart and more personged. This will not only control smart home devices, but can also play music, order grocery and also send reminders about event tickets.
Special features of Alexa+:
- Smart Home Control: Alexa+ can now get pro-active and give information about package delivery or visitor.
- Agentic capability: It can complete the online task on behalf of the user, such as booking repair service.
- Personalization: Alexa+ will now remember the preference of the user, such as shipping address, payment methods and favorite content.
- Computer Vision: It can scan documents and images, can surrender them and respond to the queries.
- Multi-device support: Conversation on one device can be continued on another device.
Alexa+ will be available in all places where Alexa already works. Along with this, Amazon has also launched a new Android and iOS app and a new web portal, so that users will be able to access Alexa+ from anywhere.
Amazon Alexa+ Voice Assistant will be rolled out in a few weeks. In the initial launch, AI-Powered Voice Assistant will be offered in the US through early access. It will first be available in Echo Display 8, 10, 15 and 21 and will later be released for more devices and platforms. Users will be able to access Alexa+ at a price of $ 19.99 (about Rs 1,740) per month. However, those who have already taken Amazon High Membership will get this free.
