The partnerships are not yet final and the approach is seen as an alternative to the generative-AI hype around voice assistants. Instead of using generative AI, Amazon may leverage APIs to make the command and control structure more seamless. However, the downside is that if Amazon relies on partnerships, some local businesses may not be included. Amazon reportedly expects to have around 200 partners by Q3 next year.
Key takeaways:
- Amazon is reportedly partnering with several companies, including Uber, Ticketmaster, OpenTable, GrubHub, and Instacart, to improve the functionality of its smart assistant, Alexa.
- The aim is to make Alexa capable of completing entire tasks for users, rather than handing them off to third-party services, as it currently does with Alexa Skills.
- These partner companies would become the primary option for handling specific tasks on the upgraded Alexa, potentially making tasks like ordering food or booking a ride more seamless.
- Amazon expects to have around 200 partners by Q3 next year, but the partnerships are not yet final and the approach may not include all businesses, potentially limiting the range of tasks Alexa can handle.