Amazon has officially launched Alexa+, an enhanced, AI-driven version of its Alexa voice assistant, to all U.S. users starting this Wednesday. The new feature will be available for free to Prime members across multiple devices, while non-Prime users can access it via the Alexa website or mobile app, albeit with certain limitations.
Alexa+ stands out as a model-agnostic platform that leverages both Amazon’s foundational models and those from external sources. This innovative approach enables the assistant to perform advanced functions beyond its predecessor’s capabilities, utilizing the most effective AI technology for various tasks.
With Alexa+, users can engage in natural, conversational interactions, including follow-up inquiries and interactive dialogues. In addition to traditional smart home commands, Alexa+ can manage complex tasks—such as organizing travel itineraries, maintaining shared calendars, curating recipe collections, suggesting movies, assisting with homework, and undertaking research.
The assistant also integrates with a range of services like Ticketmaster, Uber, and OpenTable, allowing users to efficiently book reservations or request rides. However, Amazon has not released specific user adoption statistics regarding this more autonomous functionality.
Ahead of the launch, Amazon addressed feedback from beta testers who reported issues such as excessive chatter and occasional interruptions. Improvements were made, including a revamped onboarding process that teaches users how to adjust Alexa’s voice. The original voice option remains available, now enhanced with AI for better expressiveness.
Moreover, to prevent disruptions, Alexa has been programmed to inquire, “Is that for me?” when it’s uncertain who is being addressed. The overall experience is customizable, allowing users to disable follow-on listening if they prefer.
During testing, Amazon observed promising trends in user engagement, with music streaming increasing by 25% following upgrades to Alexa+, and recipe interactions witnessing a fivefold rise. On average, users are having two to three times more conversations with Alexa+ compared to the original version.
For U.S. Prime members, Alexa+ is free, while non-Prime customers can subscribe for $19.99 per month, similar to ChatGPT Plus. Although the free web and app access imposes certain limitations to prevent misuse, Amazon assures that these restrictions are generous.
Alexa+ will be accessible across various Alexa-enabled devices, including Echo products and those of partner brands such as Samsung and Bose, with further integrations planned in the future.
