Tech Desk 
Mar 01, 2025
Amazon is set to launch companion devices in the fall for the artificially intelligent version of the Alexa voice assistant.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy said: “The devices and current hardware that is getting the coming Alexa+ software update sooner will go beyond answering trivia questions and help consumers complete tasks, such as hiring someone to fix an oven.
“I think there's a sustainable business model,” Jassy said of Amazon's renewed focus on the Alexa platform.
Amazon is set to begin charging Alexa customers for the first time when the new Alexa+ starts rolling out next month. Users who need the latest capabilities will have to pay $19.99 (approximately INR 1,746) a month. Members of Amazon's $139 (approximately INR 12,145)-a-year Prime program get the update for free.
Jassy said power constraints and chip shortages continue to limit the growth of Amazon's cloud computing division. He said the Trump administration is committed to helping solve the issue. “They understand the constraints it's having on the economy,” he said.
Moreover, Amazon's CEO said he's encouraged that the Trump team “cares about what business thinks” and is aware of challenges constricting the development of artificial intelligence.
Jassy said he had spoken with Trump but didn't divulge what they discussed.
