Amazon has a big few days ahead, with the online retail giant confirming that it will be holding a major launch showcase later this week. All we know for now is that the grand unveiling will take place in New York on Wednesday, February 26, and will be led by Amazon’s SVP Panos Panay and the Amazon Devices & Services team.
Although the technology giant has not provided more information, it seems almost certain that some new gadgets, including Echo speakers, tablets, and Fire TV Sticks, will be uncovered at the launch.
Most of these products haven’t been refreshed in well over a year, and some, such as the Echo and Echo Dot, are long overdue a makeover. Changes could include superior sound and new designs along with better displays on the Show models. The Fire TV Sticks could be boosted by upgrades to the entry-level streamers that will make them more powerful.
Although devices are sure to be a hot topic at the event, the biggest news could be about a smarter Alexa.
Amazon has been working on a more conversational assistant since 2023, but it hasn’t arrived in homes yet.
That could all change this week with the upgraded Alexa expected to be able to have a more natural conversation with users along with answering complex requests. She may even get the capability to write and send emails and order favourite takeaways just by simple voice control.
It could be one of Amazon’s biggest-ever changes, but it could also mean users have to pay a price.
Right now, smart home controls, timers, weather reports and the news can all be accessed for free but it’s thought some new and more advanced features will come with a monthly fee.
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.
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.”
Hopefully, we’ll have more news soon, so watch this space. The big unveiling kicks off around 3pm GMT on Wednesday and Express.co.uk will bring you all the updates as soon as hear more.
