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Amazon says 97% of its devices can support Alexa+
Amazon announced at CES that 97% of its sold devices, totaling over 600 million, can support the new AI assistant, Alexa+. Alexa+ offers advanced features, including expressive voices and task automation. While there’s no exact availability timeline, focus is on Prime members first. Amazon aims to leverage its existing customer base for adoption amid competition from other AI platforms like Siri and ChatGPT.
Key points
- Amazon reported that 97% of its devices shipped (over 600 million) can support the new Alexa+.
- Alexa+ is designed to offer more advanced functionalities, such as expressive voices and performing tasks for users.
- The rollout of Alexa+ has already reached over 1 million users, with 'tens of millions' more set to opt in.
- Amazon is focusing initial access on Prime members and plans to leverage its established customer base to encourage usage.
- Daniel Rausch, VP of Alexa, emphasized the familiarity and existing engagement of Alexa users as a significant advantage.
- Amazon's strategy includes integrating Alexa with other tech products and partners showcased at CES.
Why it matters
- The announcement comes as Apple collaborates with Google's Gemini for Siri, escalating competition among AI assistants.
- AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Claude are gaining popularity across various sectors, impacting how users engage with voice assistants.
- Amazon's recent acquisition of Bee shows a trend of integrating AI capabilities into devices for enhanced user interaction.
Amazon's push for Alexa+ shows its intent to dominate the AI space, leveraging its existing user base while facing stiff competition from rivals like Apple and emerging technologies. The success of Alexa+ in user adoption will be critical in maintaining its relevance amidst evolving AI trends.