Amazon has officially expanded access to Alexa+, its next-generation AI assistant, making it available to users across the United States. Starting this week, all Prime members can use Alexa+ at no additional cost on supported devices. Non-Prime users can also try Alexa+ for free through the Alexa website or mobile app, though with certain usage limits.
Alexa+ represents a major evolution of Amazon’s long-running voice assistant. Powered by generative AI, the new version is designed to feel more conversational and capable than earlier iterations. Instead of relying on a single AI system, Alexa+ intelligently combines Amazon’s own foundation models with third-party AI technologies, selecting the best model for each task.
At its core, Alexa+ is built for natural interaction. Users can speak in a more fluid, human way, ask follow-up questions, and have ongoing conversations rather than issuing short, rigid commands. Beyond familiar features like controlling smart home devices, setting alarms, or checking the weather, Alexa+ can now handle more advanced requests. These include planning travel itineraries, organizing shared calendars, saving recipes, recommending movies, helping with schoolwork, and researching topics in depth.
What truly sets Alexa+ apart is its growing list of service integrations. Connections with platforms such as Uber, OpenTable, Expedia, Ticketmaster, Yelp, and others allow Alexa to complete multi-step tasks on a user’s behalf, like booking a table for dinner or requesting a ride. While Amazon hasn’t released exact figures, this “agent-style” functionality is a major focus of the new assistant.
During a year-long beta phase, users were allowed to switch between Alexa+ and the original Alexa. That option still exists, at least for now. According to Amazon, only a small percentage of users chose to revert, indicating generally positive reception. Feedback from early testers did lead to refinements, including reducing unnecessary interruptions and improving voice options. Users can still choose a more classic Alexa voice, now enhanced with AI-driven expression.
Customization is another key element. Features like continuous listening can be turned off, and Amazon has hinted at future personality options for the assistant.
Usage data from the beta shows strong engagement: music streaming increased significantly, recipe interactions multiplied, and overall conversations with Alexa doubled or even tripled compared to the original assistant.
Alexa+ is free for U.S. Prime members, while non-Prime users can subscribe for $19.99 per month. The assistant is available on Echo devices, Fire TV, Alexa.com, the Alexa mobile app, and partner devices such as those from Samsung and Bose, with broader support planned.
