July 29, 2026, 11:13 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Voice assistants are supposed to make everyday tasks easier. In practice, however, they often hit their limits with more complex or vaguely worded requests. This is where Alexa+ comes in. Amazon’s AI-powered voice assistant is still in beta in Germany and aims to better understand and execute requests. Now, Amazon has announced another innovation that is expected to significantly expand its functionality.
Manufacturers can release additional features
The innovation is initially aimed at manufacturers of connected household appliances. Amazon is providing them with a new AI-powered tool. This allows them to make features of their devices accessible to Alexa+ that were not previously supported.
This means users no longer have to search for specific settings themselves or know an exact voice command. Instead, they should be able to simply describe the outcome they want to achieve. Alexa+ will then match the request to the appropriate device and functions.
Alexa+ selects appropriate settings on its own
Amazon demonstrates how this can work using a washing machine. The example involves dirty soccer clothes that, according to the label, can only be washed in cold water.
If the washing machine is properly integrated, Alexa+ is supposed to select the appropriate combination from around 30 available programs. The voice assistant combines enzyme activation with cold water, an extra rinse cycle, and a low spin speed.
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More automation in the smart home
The enhanced integration of devices is also intended to help Alexa+ recognize personal preferences. Based on this, the voice assistant could suggest suitable routines.
Amazon cites an example of a connected coffee machine that automatically prepares the preferred beverage as soon as the alarm goes off in the morning. According to the company, customers set up twice as many routines and connected more existing devices after switching to Alexa+. Additionally, the use of smart home functions increased by nearly 50 percent in the first month.
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Alexa+ is also expected to integrate other services
Among the first companies looking to use the new tool are Bosch, Ecovacs, iRobot, Whirlpool, Tapo, and Eufy.
The new possibilities, however, are not intended to be limited to household appliances. Through the Model Context Protocol (MCP), Amazon also wants to make it easier to link external services with Alexa+. The features, initially available as a preview, are being tested with Priceline, Viator, Virgin Atlantic, Lyft, FlixBus, and Greyhound, among others.
This could allow users to search for hotels, receive recommendations, and complete bookings directly in conversation. Payment is made using the payment method stored in the Amazon account, if desired.