Alexa+ is now available for free to everyone in the US – but be cautious (www.techradar.com)

Amazon has announced that Alexa+ is now available for free to all users in the US, following a year of early access. While a basic version can be accessed at no cost on the web, users with a Prime membership can enjoy the full set of features. The upgrade aims to transform Alexa into a more intelligent, conversational, and personalized assistant reminiscent of advanced AI systems like ChatGPT. Prime users can simply say "Alexa, upgrade to Alexa+" or log in online to access the enhanced capabilities, which include improved context recognition and the ability to manage more complex tasks, such as meal planning and travel arrangements. However, the rollout has not been smooth, with many early adopters reporting significant issues, such as slow response times and failures in smart home integrations. While Amazon touts increased engagement and user adoption, complaints on platforms like Reddit highlight ongoing challenges, casting doubt on the reliability of Alexa+ in its current state. Despite the initial problems, the transition reflects a major step toward a more capable AI assistant landscape, signaling Amazon's commitment to evolving smart home technology while preparing for a potential global rollout in the future.