Alexa Plus is getting an AI update to handle more complicated instructions
Amazon is updating Alexa Plus to understand complex instructions and automatically route them to specific smart home devices from brands like Bosch and Whirlpool.
- Alexa Plus now supports complex natural language commands for smart home devices.
- The update integrates with brands like Bosch, Whirlpool, and iRobot.
- The AI automatically routes requests to the correct device settings.
Amazon has introduced a preview update for its Alexa Plus assistant, enhancing its ability to manage smart home ecosystems through more natural and complex commands. The system can now integrate directly with hardware from major manufacturers including Bosch, iRobot, and Whirlpool.
The core improvement involves the AI parsing vague or multi-part user requests and translating them into precise technical actions. Instead of requiring specific command syntax, users can describe their needs in conversational language.
For example, a user can ask for a deep clean for a soccer jersey while specifying a cold water restriction. Alexa Plus identifies the correct appliance, navigates its interface, and selects the appropriate cycle without further user input.
Demonstrates the shift toward agentic AI that interfaces with specific device APIs rather than simple voice triggers.
Highlights opportunities for deeper hardware integration with voice assistants to improve user experience.
Makes smart homes easier to use by removing the need to memorize specific commands or technical settings.
AI ToolsForgot your Google password? Now you can log in with a selfie.
AI ToolsAnthropic updates Claude voice mode with more capable models
AI ToolsRunway launches AI model router as generative media gets crowded
Evaluating AI Agents: A production blueprint with Strands and AgentCore - Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Artificial intelligence becoming a ‘mainstream travel planning tool’: survey - Hotel Dive
Sankofa Kings trains Black boys and young men to create, not just consume AI - The Oaklandside
Sankofa Kings is a program that trains Black boys and young men to create AI, rather than just consume it. The program aims to increase diversity in the tech industry.
Warner unveils agenda to help regulate artificial intelligence, data centers - WAVY.com
Senator Mark Warner has introduced an agenda focused on regulating artificial intelligence and data centers. The proposal aims to address the growing impact of AI technologies and the infrastructure supporting them.
Universities ask for $24.5 million to launch and maintain artificial intelligence system - South Dakota Searchlight
South Dakota universities are seeking $24.5 million to launch and maintain an artificial intelligence system. The funding will be used for the development and upkeep of the AI system.
BusinessMicrosoft responds to LG monitors installing McAfee ads on Windows
Microsoft has responded to reports of LG monitors installing McAfee ads on Windows through Windows Update.
HardwareAMD takes on Nvidia with its Helios AI rack scale system
AMD unveiled the Helios AI rack-scale system to compete with Nvidia, with shipments starting later this year.
LLMChatGPT will give you worse health advice if you don't pay
OpenAI is rolling out "Health in ChatGPT" in the U.S., integrating with Apple Health and other wellness apps. Paid subscribers will access a more advanced AI model (GPT-5.6 Sol) for health advice, while free users get a less capable version (GPT-5.5 Instant).