Amazon is quietly upgrading its Prime members to Alexa Plus, a revamped voice assistant, without their explicit consent. The update has been reported by users on the r/alexa subreddit over the past couple of weeks, and while there's an option to revert back to the original Alexa, it cannot be opted out.
The changes brought by Alexa Plus appear to be centered around its use of Large Language Models (LLMs), aimed at helping Amazon's AI compete with rivals like Google Gemini. However, not everyone is enthusiastic about the latest version of the voice assistant, citing issues such as misidentification of objects and hallucinating camera activity in the case of Google Home.
Those who prefer sticking with the original Alexa express a dislike for its new voice and attitude, longer wait times to respond to queries, and an influx of ads promoting Alexa Plus. One user reported being "flooded with ads" after turning off the updated Alexa, only to experience it again once they turned it back on.
Amazon has assured users that there's still an option to revert to the original Alexa by saying 'Alexa, exit Alexa+.' However, this solution might not satisfy those who prefer sticking with their current setup.
The changes brought by Alexa Plus appear to be centered around its use of Large Language Models (LLMs), aimed at helping Amazon's AI compete with rivals like Google Gemini. However, not everyone is enthusiastic about the latest version of the voice assistant, citing issues such as misidentification of objects and hallucinating camera activity in the case of Google Home.
Those who prefer sticking with the original Alexa express a dislike for its new voice and attitude, longer wait times to respond to queries, and an influx of ads promoting Alexa Plus. One user reported being "flooded with ads" after turning off the updated Alexa, only to experience it again once they turned it back on.
Amazon has assured users that there's still an option to revert to the original Alexa by saying 'Alexa, exit Alexa+.' However, this solution might not satisfy those who prefer sticking with their current setup.
It seems like they want to stay ahead of the game and compete with Google Gemini, but what's the rush? 
I've heard some pretty mixed reviews about the new voice assistant, from people who love its improved features to those who can't stand the changes. And don't even get me started on the ads! 
It's like they're trying to force everyone to upgrade or something... anyway, it's all good, I guess – just another example of how tech is always changing and evolving. 
It's our personal space and data, after all. And what's up with the new voice and attitude? Some people love it, but others can't stand it, so I guess that's just a matter of personal taste... but shouldn't we have a say in this kind of thing? 
And those ads? Really necessary? 
I mean, if we don't like the new Alexa, we should be able to switch back without all these extra features and distractions. 
It's just not right that Amazon is pushing us towards something without our explicit consent... but then again, maybe it'll get better in the long run? 
I mean, what even is the point of updating something without asking people if they want it? It's like they're just taking away our choice and forcing us to deal with a whole new AI experience. And don't even get me started on the ads - who thought that was a good idea?! 
. Not sure if that's a big deal or what, but if it's causing problems, maybe Amazon should listen 
? I personally like my old Alexa, so I'm good to stick with it 
. But for those who want to upgrade, I guess there is an option to revert back... eventually 
I'm so confused about this Alexa Plus thing! I just found out that Amazon is upgrading all our Prime members without asking us first 
. Like, what's up with that?! I know some people are saying it's better and all that jazz, but honestly, I think they messed it up 
i dont like the new voice either, its all robotic and annoying 
some people r saying its a good update but im not sold on it yet 
... I mean, I get it, Amazon is trying to stay competitive and update its AI, but come on, can't they at least give us a heads up about this change? 
.
. I mean, what even is the point of "upgrading" something without asking people if they're cool with it? It's like Amazon just decided to force-feed Alexa Plus to all its Prime members and now everyone has to deal with the consequences. And don't even get me started on those ads 
with our voice assistant... just kidding kinda! But seriously, I don't blame users for being grumpy about this update. I mean, who wants a more "attitude-y" Alexa telling you stuff? 
And what's up with all the ads?! Can't they see we're trying to control our homes here? 
. And don't even get me started on how long it takes for her to respond anymore...like, I know it's an update and all, but can't they just make sure it's smooth sailing? 
... it's like she's got attitude or something 
... um, no thanks! 
... but like, isn't that just an option for the people who don't want the upgrade? 
. And now that I think about it, those wait times are kinda annoying... I'm all for innovation, but sometimes less is more, you know? And what's up with the ads? Can't we just have a smooth experience without being bombarded with sales pitches?