Stay Informed: Live Updates and Insider Rumors from the Amazon Alexa Event!

What generative AI in Alexa could mean

Generative AI is making waves everywhere, and it’s not just for show. So, how could it change Alexa? Let’s explore!

Natural interactions

Right now, using your smart home feels very basic. You often have to remember specific phrases for different devices. But with generative AI, things could become way smoother. For instance, imagine expressing an emotion you want to feel and your home adjusts automatically, all without specific commands.

The ability to remember

Just like ChatGPT remembers your previous requests, if Alexa gains memory, it could respond even better to you. Picture this: you ask for a bedtime story for your nephew, and it crafts a unique adventure just for him, using his favorite character’s voice.

Potentially agentic?

Amazon’s ecosystem is huge, featuring everything from shopping to streaming. What if all these services linked seamlessly with a new generative AI? Companies are chasing agentic AI, but Amazon is particularly well-positioned to do this. For example, imagine it learns your Friday routine—snacks, winding down with a show—and even suggests ordering your favorites without you asking.

Could we see a new Amazon Echo today?

It’s been quite some time since we saw a new Echo—four years since the last version. The original was good for its time, but audio technology has improved since then.

Reports indicate that Amazon has struggled with its smart speaker sales. Maybe this event will unveil ways to make Alexa profitable while introducing new hardware.

Good morning!

It’s Alexa event day! We’re eager to see what the next Alexa will offer. Will it stack up against ChatGPT’s voice capabilities? Time will tell. Plus, Amazon stands out with its variety of home devices, almost like having your own personal assistant at home!

Check back tomorrow for Amazon’s event

Amazon’s Devices event kicks off tomorrow, February 26, at 10 AM Eastern, 7 AM Pacific, and 3 PM in the UK. We’ll be watching closely and sharing details as they unfold.

Alexa vs Google vs Siri

This year could be big for home voice assistants. Alexa might get an upgrade soon, while Google’s new Gemini assistant is still evolving. Apple is also expected to push further into smart homes with its HomePod 3. The competition is heating up!

The Future may be announced but when will it arrive?

Tomorrow’s announcement is set to unveil the future of Alexa. However, the public may have to wait to try it out. Reports suggest potential delays until the end of March, primarily due to ongoing testing issues.

Will Alexa retain skills?

If an upgraded Alexa is introduced, will it still keep its current skills? Alexa’s skills act as mini-apps, and there’s a ton available. As AI advances, it would be interesting to see whether these skills get integrated into the main features or if they remain as standalone options. The big question is: How much will Alexa really change?

What we don’t expect to see

One thing is certain—we likely won’t see new Kindles at this event. Amazon recently released several new models, and the last updates were just in 2022. So, don’t expect any e-readers showing up!

Here’s how polite we are to digital assistants

Most people seem to be polite when talking to digital assistants. A recent study showed over 55% of respondents use polite language with AI—up from 49%. This could reflect how comfortable we are getting with these tools. However, some still respond brusquely, and a few believe these assistants don’t deserve politeness. How do you treat your Alexa?

A new Amazon Echo?

It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new Echo Dot. The last major refresh was four years ago. While trends have shifted toward more advanced audio tech since then, slow sales have held back new releases from Amazon.

Everything we saw at the last Amazon Devices event

Amazon typically unveils many new products at these events. Here’s a look at the highlights from the last event:

• Fire TV Soundbar ($119)
• Fire TV Stick 4K ($49) with enhanced processing and streaming.
• Fire TV Stick 4K Max ($59) featuring Dolby Vision and high-quality audio.
• eero Max 7 ($599) offering impressive Wi-Fi speeds.
• Blink Sync Module 2 ($49) for better camera coverage.
• Echo Hub ($179) for managing smart home devices.
• Echo Frames ($269) with upgraded audio technology.
• Echo Show 8 ($149) with spatial audio and improved display.
• Echo Pop Kids ($49) themed for kids.
• New tablets like Fire HD 10 ($189).
• Updated Blink Outdoor camera ($129).
• New configurations for the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro.

Meet the new boss

This event will be the first for Panos Panay as the head of Amazon’s hardware division, following his transition from Microsoft, known for launching the Surface line. His leadership is anticipated to bring fresh energy to the event.

Alexa on tap?

Many are eager to see if the event will unveil the new Alexa, which was hinted at during a previous gathering. This version promises a more conversational style and improved context handling. However, there’s been scant information since that event, and updates about its release have shifted further in the future.

Will Amazon charge for Alexa?

Rumors suggest the upcoming Alexa (codenamed “Remarkable”) could introduce subscription fees, ranging from $5 to $10 per month. Since competitors offer similar services for free, it’s unclear if users will warm up to paying for Alexa’s features.