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OWNERS of Alexa-powered speakers have recently noticed an unexpected new voice, and not everyone is pleased with the change.
Last year, a significant upgrade was introduced for the beloved digital assistant.
The new Alexa is included with a Prime subscriptionCredit: Alamy
Amazon seems to be accelerating the rollout of Alexa+Credit: Getty
The availability has been gradually expanding worldwide, with subscribers able to opt-in for free.
However, in recent days, several users have reported that their device’s voice was automatically upgraded.
Alexa+ utilizes advanced technology to enable a more human-like conversation.
This should be significantly better than the original Alexa, which had very limited and generic responses.
An email has reportedly been circulating to users whose devices have switched over.
Nonetheless, some were still taken by surprise.
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“My device just started speaking with a different voice, and I immediately disliked it,” one person complained online.
“From what I can tell, their goal is to create a more natural conversation flow, but that’s exactly what I do not want.
“I never want to forget, even for a second, that I’m speaking to a robot.”
Another user exclaimed: “STOP SHOVING IT DOWN MY THROAT!”
A third user mentioned: “I took a nap today, and when I woke up, my Alexa had updated.
“I knew right away because I asked Alexa to snooze, and she responded with a different voice.”
Alexa+ is priced at $19.99 per month (the exact UK price is still to be announced but is expected to be between £16 and £20).
If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, it is available at no additional cost.
The email circulating to those who were automatically upgraded states that “the upgrade takes just a few minutes and won’t require any action from you.”
Fortunately, if you’re not fond of Alexa+, you are not stuck with it.
The message indicates you can revert back to the original Alexa.
All you need to do is say: “Alexa, exit Alexa+.”
AI-NY GOOD? THE EXPERT VIEW
Here's what tech industry expert Paolo Pescatore, of PP Foresight, had to say shortly after Alexa+ was announced last year.
“Taking AI to the masses,” Paolo explained.
“There’s a lot at stake with this revamped service, given the lengthy delays and the need to justify the substantial investments made in AI and other areas.
“Ultimately, consumers have not shown a greater willingness to use features beyond basic requests.
“We are now beginning to see meaningful advancements in AI that promise to provide users with a more personalized experience.
“The biggest question is whether users are ready, considering their early experiences and concerns regarding security and trust.
“These issues still pose significant barriers to broader adoption.
“If executed effectively, it should resonate with customers rather than pushing them to pay for yet another monthly fee.
“All these recent developments highlight the importance of Prime and providing users with a comprehensive solution for nearly everything.
“A pivotal moment for the new devices and services chief, Panos Panay.”
Picture Credit: Sean Keach / The Sun
What is the new Alexa+ feature?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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