Alexa+ can now use AI to generate audio podcast on any topic: What's new

Amazon has rolled out Alexa Podcasts, a new AI-driven feature for Alexa+ subscribers in the US that creates on-demand podcast-style audio episodes. The tool allows users to request audio content on virtually any topic, such as trending news, sports highlights, movies, travel destinations, or educational subjects like the Apollo missions or leadership strategies. Alexa+ gathers information from major publishers like the Associated Press, Reuters, and The Washington Post, structuring it into a conversational audio format with AI-generated host voices. To generate an episode, users simply ask Alexa about a topic, and the assistant compiles relevant details, outlines the content, and displays a summary for approval before producing the final audio. The feature is designed to make learning and information consumption more accessible and engaging. Episodes can be accessed via Echo Show devices or the Alexa app, including the Music and More section for saved content. Alexa Podcasts leverages generative AI to transform large datasets into concise, podcast-style lessons tailored to user preferences. For example, users can request episodes on Tokyo’s culture, homebrewing techniques, or photography tips. Amazon has hinted that future updates may enable personalized news briefings or audio content based on user-uploaded documents. The feature builds on Alexa+, an upgraded version of Alexa that supports advanced AI tasks like detailed question answering, information summarization, calendar management, and multi-user household integration. Alexa+ also connects with Amazon services such as Prime Video, Amazon Music, and Photos. This latest addition aims to enhance the assistant’s utility by delivering interactive, audio-based learning experiences. Currently, Alexa Podcasts is available exclusively to Alexa+ subscribers in the US, with no immediate plans for global expansion announced by Amazon.