New Alexa to Feature Claude AI Technology

Amazon is preparing to launch a new and improved version of Alexa this year, which will be powered mainly by Anthropic’s Claude AI model, as reported by Reuters. Early versions of this updated, subscription-based voice assistant faced issues when using Amazon’s own AI technology, struggling with accuracy and user interactions.

The UK competition regulators are currently investigating Amazon’s minority stake in Anthropic. Amazon invested $4 billion in the startup last year, promising early access to advanced AI technology for its customers.

The new Alexa, referred to as “Remarkable Alexa,” has encountered numerous difficulties since its announcement last September. Mihail Eric, a former machine learning scientist at Alexa AI, has criticized the division for being plagued by technical and bureaucratic issues. Meanwhile, Alexa faces increasing competition from rivals like OpenAI’s ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode, Google Gemini’s voice chat, and the upcoming Siri Apple Intelligence update.

The new Alexa, built with Claude, is expected to outperform the previous version that used Amazon’s in-house AI models. According to Amazon, while they use their own models like Titan, they also integrate various technologies, including those from partners, to enhance user experience.

Despite previous delays, Remarkable Alexa is now anticipated to be released in mid-October. It will feature daily AI-generated news summaries, a child-friendly chatbot, and conversational shopping tools. There are reports that Amazon might introduce this new Alexa through a $5 to $10 monthly subscription, while maintaining the existing Classic Alexa as a free service. A demonstration of the new Alexa is expected at Amazon’s annual devices and services event, usually held in September.