We already know that Amazon is working to enhance Alexa with generative AI technology. Now, a new report suggests that the company intends to implement this technology as a premium offering, requiring additional payment from users.
According to a report by CNBC, citing sources, Amazon plans to launch a “more conversational version” of Alexa later this year. The new AI-version of Alexa will likely aim to position Amazon to better compete with AI-powered chatbots from companies like Google and OpenAI.
Also read: Alexa gets cool new features like Automatic Lightning, Map View & more!
Amazon’s subscription for the upgraded Alexa will not be included in the $139-per-year Prime membership. The report said that the company has yet to finalise the price point for this new service, one source revealed.
Also read: As demand for Amazon Alexa increases, are Indian homes getting smarter?
Last week, OpenAI announced GPT-4o, which enables significantly deeper two-way conversations than Alexa. For instance, it can translate conversations into different languages in real time. Similarly, Google launched a generative AI-powered voice feature for its Gemini platform.
Business Insider was the first to report on Amazon’s plans to revamp Alexa and introduce a new paid subscription plan in 2024. In September, David Limp, Amazon’s former SVP of Devices and Services, mentioned to The Verge that the company was considering charging for a more powerful version of Alexa.
Last week’s announcements were perceived by some as a threat to Alexa and Siri, Apple’s voice assistant feature for iPhones. NYU professor Scott Galloway referred to the updates as the “Alexa and Siri killers” on his recent podcast. Many individuals rely on Alexa and Siri for basic tasks like setting timers, alarms, and checking the weather.
As of 2023, Amazon reported that it had sold over 500 million Alexa-enabled devices, solidifying its position with consumers.
