It’s been a very long wait but it seems Amazon is finally ready to unleash its all-new Alexa on the world. This update was first announced all the way back in 2023 with the US retailer promising big new features and a more conversational experience when chatting to this popular assistant.
During a live demo in Washington DC, Amazon showed off how users could speak to Alexa just like a real person. Once a conversation is started there’s no longer the need to keep saying “Alexa” with the assistant knowing you are speaking with her.
Along with that personalised dialogue, it’s also rumoured that Alexa will be able to cope with more complicated queries, write and send emails for you and even order your weekend takeaway via simple voice commands.
It’s no secret that an update is on its way. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy confirmed that the company is working on a “substantial number of GenAI applications across every Amazon consumer business,” including “an even more intelligent and capable Alexa.”
It all sounds pretty smart, and full details finally look set to be confirmed by the end of the month, with Amazon sending out invites to a grand unveiling in New York. The only caveat could be a new price for using this more advanced Alexa.
Amazon has always offered totally free access to this assistant, and it’s been a massively popular move, with billions of requests made every month.
You do need an Alexa-compatible device to use Alexa, but once purchased, there are no more fees to pay, and according to the Wall Street Journal, that’s costing Amazon billions in lost revenue.
By launching a better version of its assistant—which is rumoured to cost $10 per month (£7.70)—Amazon could entice power users to pay for new features while not upsetting those who are happy with what they currently have.
Along with Alexa, Amazon could also announce a swathe of devices at the February event including new Echo speakers and Fire TV Sticks.
These products haven’t been rebooted in well over a year, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see upgraded hardware uncovered.
The Amazon showcase will kick off on February 26th in New York, so watch this space for more details.