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Exploring the Features of Amazon’s Alexa Plus: Hype vs. Reality
Amazon just launched Alexa Plus - its most advanced AI-powered voice assistant. The new version introduces memory, personalized responses and smart home integration. It will be available in the U.S first and with no confirmed international release date.
The assistant works on most Echo devices except the first-generation models. Its users can access it via three options. The Alexa app, Fire TV and Fire tablets. However, Alexa Plus is incompatible with "Alexa Built-in" devices like smartwatches and headphones.
Amazon has Alexa Plus priced at $19.99 per month. However, Prime subscribers can access it for free. This move aligns with Amazon’s strategy to increase Prime memberships. The company will also launch Alexa Plus initially on Echo Show devices before expanding to other models.
Alexa Plus offers improved smart home management. It integrates with Ring cameras to provide event summaries and Smart Video Search. Users can ask questions about past events, such as package deliveries. The assistant also enables voice-controlled music transfers between rooms and new smart home routines.
Amazon has upgraded Alexa’s memory capabilities. The assistant can store and recall personal information like calendar events and shopping lists. Users can upload documents, emails and recipes for easy retrieval. The more data shared, the more personalized the experience becomes.
Families with Kids Plus subscriptions will also see improvements. Alexa Plus includes new features like “Stories with Alexa” and “Explore with Alexa.” These enhancements offer interactive storytelling and AI-generated visuals for children.
Amazon also plans to expand Alexa Plus’s connectivity. These future expansion plans and updates may include deeper integration with services like OpenTable, Uber and grocery delivery platforms. The company also aims to introduce AI agents for task automation.
Classic Alexa will remain available for now. At the same time, Amazon encourages users to upgrade. Alexa Plus is a representation of the next step in AI-powered voice assistants that combines convenience with smart automation.
