Amazon to Launch Updated Alexa Powered by Anthropic’s Claude AI

Amazon is set to release a updated version of Alexa voice assistant. It will be powered mainly by Anthropic’s AI models called Claude rather than the tech giant’s own AI.

Key points

The latest version of the new Alexa technology, dubbed as “Remarkable Alexa” internally, is expected to be launched in October ahead of the holidays.

Amazon plans to charge $5 to $10 a month for its new “Remarkable” version of Alexa while the existing “Classic” Alexa voice assistant service will remain available for free.

Remarkable Alexa reportedly won’t be offered as a Prime benefit and users may need new devices to run the upgraded AI properly.

Remarkable Alexa will supposedly allow complex prompts like composing and sending emails while ordering dinner, all from a single command. It will also offer upgraded home automation capability, deeper personalization and, of course, shopping advice.

The new Alexa will also remember customer preferences so that, say, morning alarms are set, or the television knows to record favorite shows even when a user forgets to, they said.

Amazon is expected to present a demo of the new Alexa during its annual devices and services event, which is typically held in September. This event will likely showcase the capabilities of the Claude-powered Alexa and provide further details on its features and release timeline.

Background

Amazon’s currently dated but market-leading voice assistant is facing greater competition from challengers like OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode for ChatGPT, Google Gemini’s voice chat mode, and even Siri’s upcoming Apple Intelligence update.

Since last year reports indicated that Amazon was planning to supercharge Alexa with generative AI features and Company had invested $4 billion in Anthropic’s AI technology.

The decision to use Claude’s AI models comes after Amazon’s internal software reportedly struggled with performance issues during initial testing.

Sources claim that early versions using Amazon’s own AI had difficulty responding promptly, sometimes taking up to 6-7 seconds to acknowledge and reply to prompts.

 To solve all these problems Amazon is set to release a updated version of Alexa.  Amazon  has confirmed it uses many different technologies to power Alexa and when it comes to machine learning models. They started with those built by Amazon including (Amazon AI model) Titan and future Amazon models, as well as those from partners — to build the best experience for customers.”

However, Amazon’s plans for Alexa could be delayed or changed if the technology does not meet certain internal criteria, the report noted.

AI Powers Voice Assistants: A Revolution in Communication

AI’s ability to accurately understand and interpret human speech, known as Natural Language Understanding (NLU), is crucial for effective communication. Additionally, AI-powered speech recognition ensures that spoken words are accurately transcribed into text, allowing voice assistants to execute commands precisely.

AI-driven voice assistants can automate a wide range of tasks, from setting alarms and reminders to controlling smart home devices. This frees up users’ time and enhances convenience. Moreover, AI contributes to a more seamless and intuitive user experience by providing quick, accurate, and helpful responses.

Now there are many AI-driven voice assistants present in market to help us. Amazon Alexa is one of them, which is set to upgraded with new version.