Introduction to Alexa+

If there’s one thing you can rely on with AI tools, it’s that they often launch without most of the promised features. This trend has been observed with several notable releases, including Apple Intelligence and Galaxy AI. Now, this phenomenon is repeating itself with Alexa+, Amazon’s AI-heavy upgrade to its virtual assistant. Although Alexa+ is officially available, it lacks many of its touted features, according to reporting by The Washington Post.

Delayed Features of Alexa+

The Washington Post reviewed several internal company documents, noting the delay of numerous features. These documents indicate that many tools won’t be available for at least two months. For instance, Alexa+ users won’t be able to use the platform to order takeout on Grubhub or identify family members via camera to remind them to do chores.

Limited Capabilities of Alexa+

Other missing features include the ability to auto-generate a story to entertain kids, brainstorm gift ideas, or order groceries. Furthermore, a browser-based version of Alexa+ is not currently available. Amazon attributes these delays to the features not meeting the company’s standards for public release.

Current Capabilities of Alexa+

While the current version of Alexa+ may not offer all the promised features, it still provides some functionality. According to the early access page, customers can use Alexa+ to order an Uber, identify objects, and draft emails.

Availability and Accessibility of Alexa+

Alexa+ is included with Amazon Prime, but non-members must pay $20 per month to access it. The availability of Alexa+ is expanding over the coming weeks and months, but it currently only works on devices with screens, such as the Echo Show 8, 10, 15, and 21.

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