Amazon unveils next-gen Alexa+, powered by generative AI

Amazon has announced the launch of its next-generation virtual assistant, Alexa+, powered by generative artificial intelligence and available to all Amazon Prime members at no extra charge.

Panos Panay, Senior Vice President of Devices & Services at Amazon, detailed the capabilities of the newly enhanced Alexa+, highlighting its role as a comprehensive personal assistant.

"Alexa+ is more conversational, smarter, personalised—and she helps you get things done. She keeps you entertained, helps you learn, keeps you organized, summarizes complex topics, and can converse about virtually anything," he stated.

The AI assistant is designed to transform interactions by making them feel more natural and intuitive, resembling conversations with a knowledgeable friend. "Conversations with Alexa+ feel expansive and natural. Whether you're speaking in half-formed thoughts, using colloquial expressions, or exploring complex ideas, Alexa+ understands what you mean, and responds like a trusted assistant," Panay explained.

In addition to responding intuitively to voice commands, Alexa+ can actively manage and orchestrate other connected services and devices. "To achieve this, we created a concept called 'experts'—groups of systems, capabilities, APIs, and instructions that accomplish specific types of tasks for customers," Panay described. This system allows Alexa+ to perform various tasks such as controlling smart home devices, making reservations, ordering groceries, and more.

One of the standout features of Alexa+ is its ability to personalise the user experience. By remembering user preferences and past interactions, Alexa+ tailors its suggestions and actions accordingly. "You can tell her things like family recipes, important dates, facts, dietary preferences, and more—and she can apply that knowledge to take useful action," Panay noted.

The enhanced assistant comes equipped with new agent capabilities, enabling it to autonomously navigate the internet for users. If a home appliance repair is required, for instance, Alexa+ can independently arrange the repair appointment and inform the user once it is secured without needing further guidance.

Additionally, Alexa+ is designed with privacy and security in mind, an integral aspect of its development according to Amazon's standards. Alexa Privacy dashboard centralises the control over user interactions and settings to safeguard personal information.

The new assistant will be accessible across multiple platforms, including a dedicated mobile application and browser-based interface, supporting seamless transitions across devices. Alexa+ continuity across different gadgets means that a conversation started with an Echo device can continue uninterrupted on a mobile phone or a computer.

Furthermore, Alexa+ promises an expansive knowledge base enhanced by LLMs, intended to provide informative responses whether the query is precise or vaguely formed. Accessibility is broadened, as users can contribute documents, images, and other data for customised interaction.

Retailing at USD $19.99 per month, Alexa+ remains a free service for Amazon Prime subscribers. This expansion of Prime benefits reflects Amazon's commitment to delivering additional value through exclusive services and benefits.