Amazon, the popular online retailer, unveiled an updated version of its voice assistant Alexa on Wednesday (26) that has been enhanced with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, making it more human-like in its abilities.
Amazon has faced demands to modernize its assistant for the AI era after 10 years, as users have grown increasingly frustrated with the device’s confusing conversations and limitations in performing tasks beyond playing music, providing weather forecasts, or controlling lights.
Siri, Apple’s assistant, is focusing on enhancing its interactions and performance by utilizing artificial intelligence.
“If I had to convey a message to this eager crowd, it would be that I am more than just a helper. I am her closest companion in the online realm,” stated Alexa Plus at the New York launch event.
During the event, a video featuring Alexa Plus showcases its ability to carry out new tasks like reserving show tickets and sending messages to a babysitter.
Amazon Vice President Panos Panay introduced this new edition as the start of a new era for voice-enabled devices.
Panay, a Microsoft executive, stated during the unveiling that they had been constrained by this technology until now.
Alexa is present in more than 600 million devices.
Alexa, with its AI feature, can schedule trips, add them to your calendar, and store your preferences for food, movies, and music as per Amazon.