Alexa+ is here, this new AI powered version of Alexa has been in the works long time coming after the explosion of LLM technology in recent years.
Yesterday at an event in New York all was revealed which included the name “Alexa+” along with the pricing – $19.99/month or free for Amazon Prime members.
Why is Alexa+ different?
Under the hood Alexa+ is powered by Anthropic Claude model Amazon Bedrock. The previous Alexa model was powered by a set of first-party Alexa Skills, partnerships and third-party Alexa Skills.
The new Alexa+ will use integration with third party companies to power the experiences for example Ticketmaster for buying tickets. This will be done using the Alexa AI Action SDK, Alexa AI Web Action SDK, and Alexa AI Multi-Agent SDK.
All of this means you can have a natural conversation with a larger context window.
Why Alexa+ is a Game-Changer
A More Natural Conversation
Alexa+ understands context, picks up on nuances, and responds like a trusted assistant, making interactions feel less like talking to technology and more like engaging with a helpful friend.
Seamless Smart Home Control
With deep integrations across thousands of devices, Alexa+ takes home automation to the next level. Whether it’s adjusting your lighting, securing your home, or setting up entertainment across rooms, Alexa+ has it covered.
Proactive Assistance
Beyond answering questions, Alexa+ anticipates your needs, suggesting an earlier commute when traffic is heavy or notifying you when a long-wanted item is on sale.
Enhanced Shopping & Discovery
From finding the best deals to making informed purchasing decisions, Alexa+ simplifies shopping by understanding your preferences and making personalised recommendations.
It’s not just Smart Speakers
The new Alexa+ will be also accessible on the web, on the Alexa app and on Fire TV and Tablets.
Alexa+ in the UK: When Can You Get It?
Alexa+ could possibly launch in the UK later this year, with early access rolling out to select users in the coming months.
As for pricing, UK customers can expect a model similar to the US: Alexa+ will likely be included for free with Amazon Prime, with a standalone subscription available for non-members. Official UK pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
Which Echo devices will work with Alexa+
- Echo (second-gen and later)
- Echo Dot (and Echo Dot Kids) second-gen and later
- Echo Pop
- Echo Spot (second-gen)
- Echo Show 5 (and Echo Show 5 Kids)
- Echo Hub
- Echo Studio
- Echo Auto
- Echo Buds
Which Echo devices will not work with Alexa+
- Echo Dot (1st Gen)
- Echo (1st Gen)
- Echo Plus (1st Gen)
- Echo Tap
- Echo Show (1st and 2nd Gen)
- Echo Spot (1st Gen)
Get Ready for Alexa+
Alexa+ starts rolling out in the U.S. in the coming weeks, with UK availability on the horizon. If you want to be among the first to experience it, visit Amazon’s Alexa+ page to register your interest.