Introducing Amazon Alexa: Early Access Launch in the UK

Amazon has rolled out early access to the upgraded Alexa+ in the UK today.

Alexa+ is a new intelligent AI assistant that engages in conversational dialogue, utilizing UK English and local expressions. Similar to the existing Alexa, it can provide information, set timers, give weather forecasts, and interact with smart home devices.

However, Alexa+ now has the ability to grasp context and remember user preferences, enabling personalized responses based on individual tastes and interests.

Furthermore, Alexa+ can suggest restaurants, make reservations, and notify dining companions about upcoming meals, showcasing its expanded capabilities.

While similar functionalities are found in Google Gemini, Alexa’s strength lies in its seamless integration with various devices and services. Daniel Rausch, Vice President of Alexa and Echo, remarks, “Life doesn’t happen in a chat window,” possibly targeting the competition.

Amazon has partnered with numerous local radio stations, media outlets like The Guardian, and platforms such as Just Eat, Tripadvisor, Treatwell, Fresha, and Spotify, enhancing Alexa’s functionality.

Although Gemini offers features like ordering food or booking a ride, its availability in the US may precede its launch in the UK.

Ambient AI

Utilize Alexa+ on your TV not only for answering queries about actors but also for discovering other films they have appeared in, discussing them, and playing the chosen one.

When you want to listen to a specific song, Alexa+ can locate and play it based on limited information like the artist’s name or a scene from a movie in which the song was featured.

If you have Ring devices, Alexa+ can provide information on various household activities like pet movements, garbage collection, or package deliveries, demonstrating its versatility.

Amazon refers to this as ‘ambient AI,’ indicating its omnipresence. You can access it on your phone, Echo speaker, Fire TV, and even in your car, with a browser interface in development.

Improvements in Alexa’s understanding of UK and Irish dialects have been made to reduce errors in comprehension, recognizing the diverse linguistic variations across regions.

While the demo version of Alexa+ displayed enthusiasm, future updates will allow users to adjust its personality to suit their preferences.

Amazon

How to access

Purchase a compatible device such as the Echo Show 8, Echo Show 11, Echo Dot Max, or Echo Studio to begin using Alexa+ immediately. Existing device owners can sign up for the service on Amazon.

Following the trial period, Alexa+ will be priced at £19.99, unless you have a Prime membership, in which case it will be included as part of the subscription.