Amazon has stepped into the next level of smart home technology with the launch of Alexa Plus in early access, but it’s not all smooth sailing. While the introduction of this new AI-powered feature has certainly piqued interest, some of the highly anticipated functionalities are notably missing. This article dives into what Alexa Plus brings to the table and what users will have to wait for as it rolls out its capabilities.
Highlights
- Limited access – Only a small number of users can try Alexa Plus initially! 🛑
- Missing features – Key functionalities yet to be released! ❌
- Device compatibility – Currently limited to select Echo Show models! 📱
- Pricing strategies – Competitive monthly fee for added features! 💵
Did you know that Amazon originally introduced Alexa in 2014? Since then, the assistant has evolved dramatically, but there’s always room for improvement!
Alexa Plus Overview
Launching as an enhancement to the existing Alexa ecosystem, Alexa Plus aims to provide a smarter and more efficient experience. It allows users to engage in activities such as ordering an Uber, drafting emails, and searching for products—all with their voice. However, the launch isn’t without its imperfections, as some promised features are still on the drawing board.
What’s Missing from Alexa Plus?
Though there are plenty of exciting features available, several functionalities that had been teased are notably absent. For instance, Alexa Plus lacks the ability to brainstorm gift ideas, a much-anticipated addition from the recent devices event. Adding to the list of disappointments is the inability to order takeout from Grubhub using conversational context, which would have made for a seamless ordering experience.
Moreover, Alexa Plus cannot yet identify family members in the home to provide personalized reminders. These features were highlighted during the initial announcement and have left early access users feeling somewhat let down.
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Device Compatibility and Access
As it stands, the early access for Alexa Plus is strictly limited to a select range of devices, specifically the Echo Show 8, Echo Show 10, Echo Show 15, and Echo Show 21. While Amazon plans on expanding its accessibility in the future, this leaves many Echo users in the lurch, unable to access these new functionalities without an upgraded device.
Pricing and Availability
Initially, Alexa Plus is offered at a monthly subscription rate of $19.99, or it can be accessed for free by Amazon Prime members. This decision seems to reflect Amazon’s strategy to bait users into a more expansive, premium service. However, whether the included features justify the cost remains to be seen, especially given the current gaps in its capabilities.
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Order groceries with Alexa | Not available yet |
| Order takeout from Grubhub | Not available yet |
| Family member recognition | Not available yet |
| Kids Plus features | Not available yet |
| Summarize documents | Available |
| Order Uber | Available |
Looking Ahead
While the early access launch of Alexa Plus is intriguing, the noticeable absence of several critical features might leave potential users pondering their options. Amazon has stated that ongoing features will be rolled out in waves, so the hope is that the much-anticipated capabilities will eventually find their way to the platform. This will not only enhance user experience but ultimately determine how Alexa Plus could evolve in an increasingly competitive market.
Tech enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned, as the smart home landscape continues to change. This journey with Alexa Plus is just the beginning, and more updates are certainly on the way. Make sure to return for more articles on tech news and share your thoughts with others, as we explore the ever-evolving world of technology.
