Amazon announced Alexa+ web access at CES today, bringing its generative AI assistant to browsers without requiring Echo hardware. The Alexa.com website now offers full chatbot functionality to Early Access customers, marking Amazon's direct entry into the web-based AI assistant market dominated by ChatGPT and Google Gemini.
Alexa+ web access eliminates the need for Amazon devices, allowing users to control smart home systems, upload documents, and manage family calendars through any browser. The interface mirrors competing AI chatbots with a large text input field and navigation sidebar for frequently used features. Amazon Prime subscribers receive free access while others pay $20 monthly.
The web rollout follows Alexa+'s device-based launch in early 2025, which faced criticism for slower performance and smart home control issues. Amazon now positions the web version as a productivity hub for families, integrating document management, recipe planning, and grocery list automation with Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods.
Amazon announced the web expansion during CES in Las Vegas, targeting the 600 million Alexa devices already sold worldwide. The company simultaneously revealed a redesigned mobile app with "agent-forward" chatbot interfaces, plus integrations with Ring doorbells and BMW vehicles for broader ecosystem reach.
Alexa+ web functionality represents a return to browser-based access after Amazon discontinued its original web app around 2023. The new version adds generative AI capabilities for complex queries, trip planning, and content creation while maintaining traditional smart home controls through the navigation sidebar.
Early Access customers can immediately use Alexa.com after opting into the Alexa+ program. The web interface supports document uploads for managing family schedules, medical records, and household information, though Amazon lacks the native productivity suite data advantages of Google and Microsoft.
Amazon's web push addresses competitive pressure from OpenAI and Google while expanding beyond voice-only interactions. The company emphasizes family management features including calendar coordination, recipe libraries, and personalized entertainment recommendations through Fire TV integration.
The Alexa+ web launch comes amid ongoing performance concerns, with users reporting slower responses and smart home reliability issues compared to previous Alexa versions. Amazon continues integrating third-party services including Angi, Expedia, Square, and Yelp alongside existing partners like OpenTable and Uber.
Amazon's strategy positions Alexa+ as a central household management platform rather than just a voice assistant. The web interface enables keyboard-based interactions for complex tasks while maintaining voice compatibility across Echo devices, mobile apps, and now browser environments.
