Amazon is planning to release an updated Alexa assistant in October 2024, which will not be powered by the company's own AI but will use the Claude chatbot from Anthropic. It was reported by Reuters.
Back in June, it was reported that the company would ask for $5 to $10 per month to use the updated version of Alexa, which will have generative artificial intelligence capabilities. At the same time, the regular version of the voice assistant will remain free.
Amazon will use a chatbot from another company, in this case Anthropic, because the company's own system is slow and sometimes takes 6-7 seconds to understand a simple voice query and respond.
Amazon wants the assistant to help generate additional revenue and increase online sales. However, for now, all the assistant can do is perform familiar tasks, such as setting a timer, playing music, and controlling smart home elements.
However, 2024 should be a crucial year for Alexa. By the end of the year, the assistant should demonstrate the ability to help increase sales. The paid version should also generate additional revenue on its own, which is something that the assistant cannot do in its current state.
The company does not directly comment on cooperation with Anthropic, in which it has a stake, but does not deny the possibility of using chatbots from partners.