Amazon Adds Text-to-Shop Alexa Feature for Millions of US Customers
Updated
Updated · The Verge · Nov 6
Amazon Adds Text-to-Shop Alexa Feature for Millions of US Customers
3 articles · Updated · The Verge · Nov 6
Summary
A small group of US customers can now text “Amazon Alexa” to order products, get recommendations, and shop from photos, with a broader rollout to millions planned in coming weeks.
The feature lets users describe an item or send an image, after which Alexa for Shopping searches Amazon listings, texts back matches, and can complete the purchase on the user’s behalf.
Amazon said the service is meant for moments when texting is easier than using its app or website, extending the Alexa for Shopping experience launched in May.
Alexa also tracks user preferences such as vegan options and can monitor prices or deals, texting shoppers when watched items go on sale.
The launch adds Amazon to a growing group of companies pushing text-based AI commerce after OpenAI introduced texting for Dot last month and DoorDash added text ordering in September.