Feature Introduction

Amazon has added Alexa+, an upgraded AI‑driven assistant, to the Amazon Music app on both iOS and Android platforms. While the feature is accessible across all subscription plans, it is limited to users who have opted into the early‑access program. To activate Alexa+, users tap the “a” button in the app’s lower‑right corner and speak their query using the phone’s built‑in microphone.

Conversational Music Discovery

Unlike the previous version of Alexa, which responded mainly to basic commands, Alexa+ is designed for natural dialogue. Users can pose specific and obscure questions, such as inquiries about an artist’s influences, deeper meanings behind songs, or the movie in which a track appeared. The assistant can also help identify a song by matching remembered lyrics or contextual details.

Personalized Playlists and Recommendations

Alexa+ can create custom playlists tailored to nuanced requests. Examples include building a playlist of 2010s hits that start with a particular artist or curating music that would appeal to a teenage daughter without seeming forced. Early testers note that the assistant drives more exploratory behavior, with listeners exploring songs three times more than with the original assistant and consuming nearly 70% more recommended music.

User Experience and Access

To use Alexa+, users simply tap the designated button within the Amazon Music interface and ask their question aloud. The feature operates within the existing app environment, requiring no separate download. While it is currently limited to early‑access participants, Amazon plans to expand availability as the service matures.

Strategic Implications

The rollout of Alexa+ aligns Amazon Music with other streaming platforms that have integrated generative AI tools, enhancing its competitive position. By offering a conversational, AI‑enhanced experience, Amazon demonstrates its commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence across consumer products. The move also highlights Amazon’s broader strategy to embed AI capabilities in everyday services, from music discovery to broader voice‑controlled actions.

Used: News Factory APP - news discovery and automation - ChatGPT for Business