Amazon has launched Alexa+, a generative AI assistant that works with over 600 million existing Alexa devices. The system holds conversations naturally and completes tasks independently.

Alexa+ functions through “experts” – systems that perform specific operations. These enable Alexa+ to control smart home devices, make reservations, play music across services, order groceries, and monitor home security.

The assistant can navigate the internet autonomously to complete tasks. It can locate service providers, make arrangements, and report back without user intervention.

Alexa+ learns user preferences from past purchases and allows users to add information like dietary restrictions or recipes. It applies this knowledge when making suggestions.

The service works across Echo devices, a new mobile app, and Alexa.com. Conversations transfer between devices while maintaining context.

Users can upload documents, emails, photos, and messages for Alexa+ to summarize or use. Amazon built the system with privacy protections, with settings managed in the Alexa Privacy dashboard.

Alexa+ costs $19.99 monthly, but is free for Prime members alongside existing benefits like delivery and entertainment services. The US rollout begins with early access for Echo Show owners, followed by a phased expansion. Users can request early access at amazon.com/newalexa.

In other news, Amazon is shutting down its Appstore for Android devices on August 20, 2025, with new app submissions already halted. Users will lose access after the closure, leaving Google Play as the default marketplace. The Appstore will remain available on Fire TV and Fire Tablets, where Amazon sees the most engagement.

(Source)

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