Amazon's Alexa+ Just Got a Major Upgrade – But Is It Worth the Hype?
Amazon's Alexa+ AI has been quietly evolving, promising a more human-like experience with natural language interactions and helpful responses. While it was initially available in early access, Amazon recently rolled it out to Prime members without warning, sparking both curiosity and controversy. Is this forced upgrade a game-changer, or just another tech gimmick? I’ve spent months testing Alexa+ on my Echo devices, and here’s the unfiltered truth about its 7 standout features—and whether it’s worth investing in.
But here’s where it gets controversial... While some users are thrilled with the seamless integration, others are questioning Amazon’s decision to automatically enroll Prime members. Is this a step toward a more intuitive AI assistant, or an overreach into our daily lives? Let’s dive in.
How to Get Alexa+
If you’re eager to try Alexa+, there are a few ways to access it. And this is the part most people miss... You don’t necessarily need a brand-new device. Here’s the breakdown:
- New Echo Devices: Buying the latest Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, or Echo Show 11 grants you immediate access to Alexa+.
- Older Devices: Some users received an automatic upgrade notification. If not, visit the Alexa+ store page and select Notify Me, or simply say, “Notify me when Alexa+ is available” to your Echo device.
- Alexa App: Type “Set up Alexa+” in the Alexa app to get started.
Once activated, Alexa+ guides you through a personalized setup, including voice selection (choose from four masculine or feminine options). Not a fan? You can opt out anytime by saying “Alexa, exit Alexa+” or managing your subscriptions. When out of beta, it’ll be free for Prime members and $19.99/month for others.
What Alexa+ Can Do For You
Amazon’s “ambient AI” vision is ambitious: to make Alexa+ accessible anywhere, whether through smart speakers, displays, or your phone. But does it live up to the hype? After months of testing, I’d say it’s more than just marketing fluff. Here’s why:
Better Querying
Alexa+ shines as an informational hub. I’ve found it more responsive than Google or Siri, especially for voice queries. Need a quick answer? Just ask—no need to interrupt your workflow by opening ChatGPT or Gemini. It’s a productivity game-changer.Contextual Reminders
Forget basic alarms. Alexa+ sets recurring reminders and context-specific alerts. For example, I set a reminder to watch the Ryder Cup every two hours until I acknowledged it. It even integrates with calendars and emails for seamless scheduling.Playlist Creation
Need a mood-boosting soundtrack? Alexa+ crafts playlists based on songs, artists, or themes. I tested a Fall-themed playlist—mostly impressive, though it oddly included Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide.” AI still has its quirks!News Briefings
With partnerships from Reuters to The Washington Post, Alexa+ delivers tailored news. Your daily briefing can cover politics, sports, or even entertainment—all personalized to your interests.Enhanced Memory
Alexa+ remembers past interactions, making conversations feel more natural. It recalled my dislike for a restaurant and avoided suggesting it later. It even remembers dietary restrictions—a small but thoughtful touch.Improved Recommendations
Fire TV users, rejoice! Alexa+ learns your movie preferences and suggests titles based on your taste. Ask for “movies to watch with Dad,” and it’ll deliver. It also keeps tabs on live sports scores.Wellness Integration
Here’s where it gets personal... Alexa+ nudges you to work out during free time or wind down late at night. With upcoming partnerships with Wyze and Withings, expect smart home and medical-grade wellness devices to join the mix.
3 Other Upgrades to Check Out
Alexa.com on the Web
Amazon’s late entry into web-based AI, Alexa.com, offers a ChatGPT-like interface while letting you control smart home devices. It’s a solid addition, though it’s playing catch-up.Omnisense
New Echo and Fire TV devices feature Omnisense sensors, using Wi-Fi radar and ultrasound to detect your presence. It’s handy for contextual updates but feels a bit Big Brother-ish. Are we ready for such invasive tech?Alexa+ Store
The Alexa+ Store integrates apps like DoorDash and Uber, letting you book reservations or order food directly. It’s convenient, but does it justify the cost for non-Prime users?
Do You Need a New Echo or Fire TV?
Here’s the million-dollar question... Unless you’re building a smart home network with Ring cameras or Fire TV, upgrading might not be urgent. My current Echo Dot handles most tasks just fine. However, if you’re all-in on Amazon’s ecosystem, the new devices are reasonably priced and packed with features.
What do you think? Is Alexa+ a revolutionary step forward, or an overhyped upgrade? Are you comfortable with Amazon’s automatic enrollment for Prime members? Let’s debate in the comments!
