Amazon has officially rolled out Alexa+, its next-generation AI-powered assistant, to all users across the United States. The upgraded assistant is now available for free to Amazon Prime members on compatible devices, while non-Prime users can access a limited version via the Alexa website or mobile app, or opt for full standalone access at $19.99 per month.
Announced last year and tested through a year-long beta, Alexa+ represents a major leap forward from the original Alexa. Built using a model-agnostic AI framework, the assistant runs on a mix of Amazon’s own foundation models and third-party AI technologies. This approach allows Alexa+ to dynamically use the best AI system for each task, significantly improving accuracy, flexibility, and conversational ability.
Unlike earlier versions, Alexa+ can engage in natural, multi-turn conversations, respond to follow-up questions, and handle complex workflows. In addition to standard smart home functions like setting timers, controlling lights, and checking weather, Alexa+ can plan trips, manage shared calendars, recommend movies, save recipes, assist with homework, and explore topics in depth.
Amazon has also integrated Alexa+ with third-party services such as Uber, Ticketmaster, Expedia, OpenTable, Yelp, and Thumbtack. These integrations enable agentic actions meaning Alexa can complete tasks autonomously, such as booking dinner reservations, requesting rides, or scheduling home services.
According to Daniel Rausch, Vice President of Alexa and Echo at Amazon, tens of millions of users are already using Alexa+ following beta testing. Prime members enjoy unlimited access, making Alexa+ one of the most valuable AI features bundled into the Prime ecosystem. Non-Prime users can still use Alexa+ for free on web and mobile platforms, though with usage limits designed to prevent abuse.
During beta testing, Amazon addressed early feedback about Alexa+ being overly talkative or interruptive. Improvements now include customizable follow-on modes, voice preferences including a refreshed version of Alexa’s original voice and smarter detection when users aren’t speaking to the assistant. Alexa+ will now ask, “Is that for me?” when uncertain.
Usage data shows strong engagement growth. Music streaming rose by 25%, recipe interactions increased fivefold, and users now have two to three times more conversations with Alexa+ compared to the legacy assistant.
Alexa+ is now available across Echo devices, Fire TV, Alexa.com, the Alexa mobile app, and partner hardware from brands like Samsung and Bose. With this nationwide launch, Amazon positions Alexa+ as a leading consumer AI assistant blending smart home control, productivity tools, and conversational intelligence into one unified experience.
