This week at CES, generative AI has emerged as a key focus for several tech giants, including Volkswagen, Nvidia, and notably Amazon.
Back in September 2023, Amazon had informed developers about its upcoming launch of tools for creating experiences powered by Large Language Models (LLMs). Fast forward to today, the company has showcased three developers who have crafted new generative AI-driven experiences for Alexa. These include experiences from Character.AI, a chatbot platform, Splash, an AI music company, and Volley, a developer of voice AI games, all now accessible in the Amazon Alexa Skill Store.
Character.AI has rolled out an innovative Alexa feature, enabling users to engage in real-time dialogues with various personas. This includes interacting with a fictional character named Librarian Linda, a personal fitness coach, or even simulated versions of historical figures like Socrates.
Splash has introduced an exciting Alexa Skill that allows users to compose music with their voice. By saying “Alexa, open Splash Music,” users can choose a music genre like pop, electronic, rock, or hip hop, add their lyrics, and sing or rap. Additionally, users have the option to download their personalized songs by requesting Alexa to send a link to their phones.
Volley’s contribution is a generative AI-enhanced “20 Questions” game, modernizing this classic. The game engages players with interactive questions, hints, and explanations on “yes or no questions,” especially when players find themselves at a dead end.
In recent times, Amazon has significantly upgraded Alexa with various AI enhancements. These include a new generative AI model that endows the virtual assistant with more pronounced opinions and the capability to modulate its tone and responses, emulating human emotions like enthusiasm or astonishment. Additionally, Amazon has introduced a child-centric feature on Echo devices named “Explore with Alexa.” Here, Amazon Kids+ subscribers can enjoy age-appropriate conversations, discover intriguing facts, and participate in trivia challenges.
Among other notable announcements by Amazon at CES are the integration of Fire TV into Panasonic’s forthcoming smart TVs in 2024, the introduction of Matter Casting support on Fire TV and Echo Show 15 devices, the unveiling of the latest Zoox robotaxi model, and more.