Alexa+ Rolls Out to Everyone
Amazon’s Alexa+, an upgraded AI‑powered version of Alexa, is now available to everyone in the U.S. Prime members get full access for free, while non‑Prime users can use basic chat features online or pay $19.99 monthly for full functionality. Alexa+ offers more advanced capabilities — complex tasks, planning, organization, and smart‑home control — and can be accessed through Echo devices, the web, or the Alexa app.
The Circana Take:
- Alexa+ brings generative AI capabilities to the millions of Echo devices in consumers’ homes, strengthening Amazon’s presence in the intelligent applications space and boosting the installed base of Alexa users.
- While Alexa+ will figure prominently in the smart home, increased use of the agent on multiple devices in the home should also boost Amazon’s AI in other areas- notably agentic commerce.
Switchbot Debuts The Internet of Scent
The SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp offers the scent and ambiance of candles without the fire risk by using a halogen bulb to melt wax from above. It supports Matter over Wi‑Fi, allowing direct integration with Apple HomeKit without a hub. Users can automate lighting, schedules, and scent intensity through HomeKit. The lamp features app and manual controls, and compatibility with most standard candle sizes, making it a safe, smart alternative to open‑flame candles. The candle warmer is available from Switchbot directly and major retailers for $44.99.
The Circana Take:
- The SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp delivers candle ambiance and fragrance without the fire risk of an open flame, solving a common safety concern for homes.
- It extends Matter’s reach with Matter‑over‑Wi‑Fi support enabling seamless integration with Apple HomeKit and other smart platforms without requiring a hub, thus allowing automations, scheduling, and remote control.