Amazon has rolled out Alexa+, its significantly upgraded, generative AI-powered version of the Alexa assistant, making it widely available in the U.S. now. This new service transforms the familiar voice assistant into a more intelligent, proactive personal AI companion that's free for Amazon Prime members (or $19.99 per month for non-Prime users), with a limited free tier available via web and app for others.
Key Upgrades and Capabilities
Alexa+ stands out for its enhanced conversational abilities, allowing natural, free-flowing dialogue rather than rigid command-based interactions. You can interrupt, correct yourself mid-sentence, or dive into back-and-forth discussions, making it feel more human-like and intuitive.Powered by generative AI, it handles complex, multi-step tasks and acts as an "agent" to get things done on your behalf.
Examples include:
- Planning trips, meals, or date nights
- Brainstorming ideas
- Drafting messages or emails
- Summarizing documents
- Creating images
- Managing calendars, to-do lists, and smart home routines
- Providing personalized recommendations and proactive suggestions
It integrates deeply with thousands of services, devices, and partners (like OpenTable, Uber, Ticketmaster), plus Amazon's ecosystem including Echo devices, Fire TV, Fire tablets, Ring doorbells (with new conversational features like handling visitors or deliveries), and even browsers via Alexa.com.
Availability and Access: Amazon first introduced Alexa+ at its 2025 Devices & Services event on February 26, 2025, as the "next generation" of Alexa. It began with an early access phase (starting around spring 2025 for select users and devices like newer Echo Shows), expanded to browser access in January 2026, and became generally available to all U.S. customers.
Most modern Echo devices support it, though very old models (like 1st-gen Echo Dot) stick with classic Alexa.
Prime members get unlimited access at no extra cost across voice, app, and web—positioning it as a major Prime perk. Non-Prime users can try limited chat features for free at Alexa.com or in the Alexa app.
Overall, Alexa+ shifts from a simple smart home controller to a versatile, always-improving AI helper designed for everyday planning, problem-solving, and more natural engagement.