Alexa's AI Upgrade Delayed Due to Inaccurate Answers

According to a report by The Washington Post, the AI-powered upgrade for Amazon's Alexa will not be launched for at least a month after its initial showcase. The delay is reportedly due to the updated assistant providing inaccurate answers to test questions. An anonymous Amazon employee has revealed that the upgrade won't be available until March 31 or later due to these ongoing issues. The upgraded Alexa, which may be tied to a subscription, is expected to offer advanced features like adopting a personality, recalling conversations, ordering takeout, or calling a taxi.

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Rumors and Anticipations

The delay follows months of rumors suggesting Amazon's struggle to enhance Alexa's generative AI capabilities. Despite the company's announcement in 2023 that the upgrade would take place over a period of months, it has not yet been realized. The initial launch was reportedly delayed from late 2024 due to beta tester reports of slow, stiff, and less-than-useful responses.

Competition in the AI Space

Meanwhile, Apple is rumored to be facing issues with its own Siri AI upgrade, expected to feature in iOS 18.4, but may see its capabilities limited or delayed entirely to iOS 18.5, potentially launching as early as May. In contrast, Google's Gemini-fueled digital assistant continues to lead the race in enhancing older smartphone assistants with generative AI.