Core Insights - Amazon has launched Alexa+, a new version of its voice assistant, to over 100,000 users and plans to expand its availability in the U.S. and other countries later this year [1][2] - The new version is available on an Early Access basis for Echo Show device owners and is free for Prime members, while non-members can access it for $19.99 per month [2] - Alexa+ is designed to be significantly smarter and more capable than its predecessor, allowing for ongoing conversations without needing to repeat the wake word [3] Product Features - Users can issue multiple commands in a single interaction, enhancing the user experience by allowing for complex tasks to be completed seamlessly [4] - Alexa+ is compatible with over half a billion devices, indicating a broad potential user base [3] - The assistant can perform various tasks, such as adjusting home settings and playing music, based on user requests [4] Market Context - The introduction of Alexa+ follows a period of delays attributed to issues with providing accurate information during testing [5] - The demand for voice technology is growing, with a report indicating that 54% of consumers prefer voice technology for its speed compared to traditional input methods [5]