Amazon is launching a shopping-specific version of Alexa called Alexa for Shopping, which will be available to all U.S. customers in the coming week. Access to the new assistant will not require a Prime membership or an Echo device.
Customers can utilize Alexa for Shopping for free through the Amazon mobile app by tapping the Alexa icon in the bottom menu, or on the Amazon website by selecting the icon at the top of the screen. Users can also type questions directly into the Amazon website search bar, which is designed to recognize inquiries meant for the assistant.
According to Amazon, Alexa for Shopping integrates personalized knowledge from Alexa+, its generative AI-powered assistant, with the product expertise from Rufus, its prior AI shopping assistant launched in 2024. The updated assistant tracks user interactions with Alexa devices and their shopping and browsing history on Amazon to provide tailored purchasing suggestions.
Examples of the assistant’s capabilities include helping users brainstorm project ideas, such as school science projects, and recommending necessary supplies based on previous conversations. Alexa can also provide troubleshooting guidance for appliances by referencing items previously purchased, like specific dishwasher pods. Additionally, users can inquire about laptops that meet specific criteria and set price alerts on their desired products.
Alexa for Shopping can suggest age-appropriate gifts based on user-provided ages, ensuring that deliveries arrive before birthdays. The assistant is also capable of comparing multiple selected items and displaying the price history of products for the past year.
Users can schedule routine purchases and add items to their cart based on prior orders, as well as create custom shopping guides that compare features, prices, and reviews of products. Users must be logged in to utilize Alexa for Shopping, as it requires access to individual profiles and history.
Furthermore, Amazon is enhancing the Alexa experience on Echo Show devices with larger screens, allowing users to search and browse items more effectively on smart displays.
