Amazon Introduces Enhanced Shopping Features in Alexa+ for Echo Devices
Amazon continues to innovate its voice-controlled assistant, Alexa+, aiming to transform the way users engage with their Echo smart speakers for shopping. As of today, new features have been rolled out in the U.S. and Canada, designed to elevate the shopping experience. Among the most notable additions are a dedicated shopping hub, tools for modifying recent orders, and tailored recommendations.
In an effort to increase user interaction, Amazon has implemented automated deal tracking that alerts users when items in their cart or wish list drop to a desired price point. Coupled with the option for automatic purchases, this feature ensures that items can be ordered instantly as soon as they become available at the target price.
Enhanced Shopping Essentials Experience
Amazon is also redesigning its Echo devices with screens—such as the Echo Show 15 and 21—into a centralized “Shopping Essentials” interface. This platform allows users to track deliveries in real time, review recent orders, receive reminders for essential household items, and manage their shopping list.
Key features include:
– Real-time delivery tracking
– Order history overview
– Reminders for replenishing household items
– Direct product listing with one-tap addition to the cart
Users can initiate the shopping hub by saying, “Alexa, where’s my stuff?” or “Open Shopping Essentials.” Furthermore, a shopping widget is expected soon for easy access on home screens.
New Capabilities and Gift Recommendations
Another significant update is that Alexa+ now enables device owners to add items to pending orders until they leave the warehouse, mirroring a similar functionality on Amazon’s website and app.
Additionally, Alexa+ has introduced a gift recommendation feature, allowing users to specify target recipients or occasions. Upon doing so, Alexa+ will generate product suggestions categorized for easier browsing.
Currently, Alexa+ is available to “tens of millions” of users in the U.S. and Canada. Despite mixed feedback from some users, Amazon reports that the rate of customers reverting to a non-AI interface remains minimal, suggesting growing confidence in the enhanced features.
