Amazon Alexa

What Amazon Alexa is

Amazon Alexa is a cloud-based voice service available through Amazon and third-party devices, with Android, iOS, and web access. The Alexa app lets people manage enabled devices, control compatible smart-home equipment and music, use the assistant while away from home, and access Alexa Skills. Supported device types include lights, switches, plugs, thermostats, cameras, locks, televisions, and robot vacuums. Users can create Routines by voice, combining actions such as adjusting lights, playing music, and sharing the weather. Alexa+ adds a conversational assistant that can retain context and use Brief, Chill, Sweet, or Sassy response styles. It can help with research, planning, content generation, shopping, reservations, ride bookings, and service scheduling; Alexa.com also supports continuing conversations across devices. Alexa+ works with services including Philips Hue, Roborock, OpenTable, Spotify, and Uber Eats. Users can review and delete recordings, transcripts, and typed requests in privacy settings. Devices stream audio to the cloud when they detect the wake word or are activated by button; Echo devices show a recording indicator, and some can play a tone. Alexa+ availability varies by region.