TECHNOLOGY

Alexa+ Grows: What's New and What's Next?

USATue Jun 24 2025
Amazon's Alexa+ is making waves, with over a million users now testing the upgraded AI-powered assistant. This isn't your average update; it's a big leap forward in how Alexa understands and interacts with users. The service, which started rolling out invites earlier this year, is still in early access. But don't worry, it won't cost you a dime during this phase. Prime members will get it for free later, while others will pay a monthly fee. So, what's the buzz about Alexa+? It's all about making interactions more natural and personalized. Imagine asking Alexa to adjust your thermostat just by saying, "It's too cold in here. " No more rigid commands; it's like talking to a friend who actually gets you. Plus, it remembers your preferences, from your favorite tunes to recipes you love. But that's not all. Alexa+ can now summarize long emails, create bedtime stories, generate quizzes, and even help you plan trips. It's like having a super-smart assistant that can do more than just play music or set timers. And the best part? It's getting smarter every day. However, not everyone is singing its praises. Some users say it's still a work in progress. But hey, it's early days. Amazon is rolling it out in waves, and they've got big plans to expand it to more devices soon. The big question is, can Alexa+ help Amazon turn the tide? The company has struggled to monetize its smart home devices in the past. But with generative AI on its side, maybe this time it's different. Only time will tell.

questions

    Are the 'personalized' features of Alexa+ actually a way to manipulate user behavior and preferences?
    Will Alexa+ be able to tell you why your Wi-Fi is always slow when you need it most?
    How does Amazon plan to ensure the privacy and security of user data with the expanded capabilities of Alexa+?

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