Alexa+ Lands in Australia: Amazon's AI-Powered Upgrade for Echo Devices
Amazon's Alexa smart speaker assistant is getting a major upgrade in Australia today with the launch of Alexa+, a subscription-based service that brings generative AI conversations to Echo devices.
Alexa+ allows users to have longer, more conversational interactions with their smart speakers, rather than just responding to single questions. According to Amazon's VP of Alexa International, Michele Butti, this is a 'massive difference' from the previous version of Alexa.
'You have a longer conversation,' Butti said. 'Alexa is much smarter, can talk about almost anything.'
Alexa+ also has the ability to take actions on behalf of users, such as controlling their home or booking tables directly with their voice.
The service will be available through early access to new Echo device buyers and will roll out to compatible existing speakers over the coming weeks. Once the trials are complete, Alexa+ will cost $29.99 per month as a standalone subscription or be included in Amazon's Prime Membership for an additional $9.99 per month.
Amazon claims that more than 98% of Australian Alexa users have at least one device compatible with Alexa+, making it a significant upgrade to the existing user base.