Amazon Introduces Conversational AI Feature “Greetings” to Enhance Ring Doorbell Experience
Amazon is revolutionizing the functionality of its Ring doorbells by incorporating a new conversational AI feature, known as “Greetings.” This innovative addition empowers users to efficiently manage deliveries, handle unsolicited sales inquiries, and allow friends and family to leave voice messages during their absence.
Understanding Visitor Context
The “Greetings” feature utilizes sophisticated technology to identify visitors based on their attire, actions, and the items they carry. For instance, if the system detects a delivery person arriving with a package, it will respond according to pre-set instructions. Users can designate areas for package drop-offs or even direct delivery personnel toward available refreshments. Moreover, if a signature is required, Alexa can inquire when they plan to return and relay that information to the user.
Responding to Various Scenarios
This capability extends to interactions with sales representatives and service vendors as well. Users can program responses such as, “If someone knocks to sell something, kindly inform them we’re not interested.” In addition, if users are unavailable or busy, Alexa can greet guests and prompt them to leave a message.
Potential Misidentification Risks
Despite its benefits, the feature raises concerns around potential misidentifications. For example, a friend who works in logistics might be mistaken for a delivery person based on their uniform, leading to an inappropriate response from the system.
Building on Previous Innovations
The launch of “Greetings” follows the introduction of Ring’s facial recognition feature called “Familiar Faces,” which catalogs the faces of up to 50 regular visitors. While “Greetings” does not identify individuals, it leverages Ring’s video descriptions to determine the primary subject in front of the camera for generating appropriate responses.
Availability
The “Greetings” feature is compatible with the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen) and Ring Wired Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen). It is currently available to users on the Ring Premium Plan who have enabled video descriptions and is being rolled out to Alexa+ Early Access customers in the U.S. and Canada.
Key Highlights:
– New “Greetings” feature enhances Ring doorbells with conversational AI
– Helps manage deliveries, sales inquiries, and visitor messaging
– Identifies visitors based on attire and actions
– Compatible with Ring Wired Doorbell Pro and Plus models
– Available to Ring Premium Plan users in U.S. and Canada
