AMAZON ALEXA
Amazon rolls out text-based shopping through Alexa
Amazon said the new text feature lets users research and compare products, track deals and price drops, and have Alexa for Shopping complete purchases on their behalf.
AI shopping agents could threaten Amazon and Walmart's ad business
Retail powerhouses Walmart and Amazon are also the world's two largest retail media businesses, dominating the estimated $74.4 billion in US retail media spending with a combined 88% share of that market, according to projections from data firm Emarketer. But digital assistants could soon disrupt that business.
Amazon layoffs to 'improve efficiency': What they mean for employees & how they compare with job cuts at Microsoft, Netflix and Oracle across Big Tech
Amazon layoffs: Amazon has cut around 250 jobs in its devices and services division, primarily in software development, as it looks to streamline operations and align staffing with product priorities. The latest layoffs add to more than 31,000 job cuts announced across several rounds since October 2025, including reductions in its retail business. The move comes amid wider workforce changes at tech giants such as Microsoft, Netflix and Oracle, as companies reassess costs and investment priorities.
Amazon unveils new lineup of Alexa devices including redesigned Echo Show
Amazon.com on Wednesday unveiled five new Alexa-powered devices including a redesigned Echo Show 16 smart display and a photo frame with built-in Alexa, as it pushes its latest
Amazon announces second round of layoffs this month, cuts 250 jobs in devices unit
Amazon has confirmed a new wave of layoffs, impacting approximately 250 workers within its devices division. Just weeks ago, the company cut around 1,000 positions from its core retail sector. These reductions aim to enhance operational efficiency and align with future product strategies. Meanwhile, both Microsoft and Dropbox have joined the trend, recently announcing their own workforce cuts amidst a tech industry facing widespread layoffs in 2026.
A $3.5 million Jeff Bezos Earth Fund grant targeted LA’s Concrete Wash in 2023; 3 years later, it became a greenway
Pacoima Beautiful, a local nonprofit, funded the work using a $3.5 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund awarded in 2023. That funding directly supports climate resilience in an area facing extreme temperatures.
The rise of AI personal assistants and the battle for users' trust
Meta Connect recently unveiled Muse Charm, which serves as a personal AI assistant for users. This device can interact with emails, calendars, and other services to streamline life tasks. It represents a shift from traditional devices to persistent AI help that anticipates users' needs. While user trust and privacy concerns persist, tech companies are racing to develop autonomous agents. The future may see these assistants represented in various hardware forms.
Amazon shuffles Alexa leadership following high-end tablet release
In a strategic reshuffle, Amazon has announced new leadership within its Alexa division ahead of the anticipated launch of its latest tablet computers. Daniel Rausch, the longstanding head of Alexa, will assume a different role in 2027, with Aidan Marcuss, previously vice president of Fire TV, stepping in to oversee Alexa's future.
Apple's smart home refresh is coming: a screen-equipped hub, new HomePod mini and Apple TV, and a camera that records nothing
Apple is set to ramp up product launches throughout the year. The forthcoming event on October 13 will feature a smart home hub integrated with Siri AI. Additional announcements may include a new HomePod mini and improved Apple TV, plus a potential reveal of a new MacBook Pro and revamped iMacs later this month.
Humanoid robot maker Boston Dynamics appoints ex-Amazon executive Rohit Prasad as CEO
Boston Dynamics, a humanoid robot maker owned by Hyundai Motor Group, said it had appointed Rohit Prasad as chief executive officer, effective October 7.
Hey Siri, how did Apple’s early lead in AI turn into a race to catch up?
Apple helped popularise voice assistants, then fell behind as rivals raised the bar. Fifteen years after Siri’s iPhone debut, a long-delayed overhaul puts its comeback to the test.
Apple’s smart home hub is reportedly arriving October 13, as Alexa+ heats up India’s smart home market
Apple is gearing up to introduce a suite of new smart home devices, such as a hub, the HomePod mini, and an updated Apple TV. This initiative signals Apple's commitment to the smart home market amidst rising competition from Amazon, which recently rolled out the Alexa+ in India.
New BMW 3 Series unveiled: Check i3, M350 xDrive price, range, features and more
BMW has introduced the eighth-generation 3 Series, featuring a fully electric i3 promising impressive range capabilities. The petrol variant, M350 xDrive, offers swift acceleration and innovative driving modes. Launching with two electric models, the new series integrates advanced Neue Klasse technology for enhanced performance. Additionally, BMW plans to expand its line with a plug-in hybrid option within the year.
Amazon enters AI safety fray, calls for "rigorous testing," safeguards
The company provided its views in response to a Reuters inquiry days after many of the largest labs called for slower AI development, following an outcry among researchers and others who fear the technology could evade human control and threaten global systems and even humanity itself.
Foxconn, Tata Electronics in overdrive for making iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models for exports
Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max production is running round the clock in India, with Foxconn and Tata Electronics factories shipping the latest models to the US and other global markets through chartered flights ahead of Friday’s launch. In a first, Made-in-India Pro iPhones will hit global shelves from day one, as Apple expands its India manufacturing and export push.
Amazon Alexa+ launches in India at ₹2,000/month: Leadership on AI, privacy and what’s next
Amazon has launched Alexa+ in India, adding generative AI, personalised conversations and task-performing capabilities to Alexa. Available under Early Access from September 16, it supports Hindi and Hinglish and can work across smart-home devices, Amazon services and partner platforms. Alexa+ will be free for Prime members after Early Access, while other users can access it through paid plans.
Amazon launches Alexa+ in India with generative AI, Hinglish and smarter voice controls
Amazon has launched its generative AI-powered Alexa+ assistant in India. This new version offers more conversational voice interactions and personalized responses. Alexa+ understands natural conversation and can perform various everyday tasks for users. It is designed to recognize Indian languages and cultural references effectively. The service is currently available for eligible customers under an early access program.
Texas-based therapy firm asked Americans in 2025 about their bonds with AI and found over 53% had ‘some kind of relationship’ with AI, while half of adults 60+ said AI romance is not cheating
AI romance & cheating: A new study shows that a significant number of Americans are forming connections with AI systems. More than half of those surveyed indicated they share a relationship with AI. Notably, over 28% of participants reported feelings of intimacy or romance with artificial intelligence, while also enjoying successful human relationships. Additionally, perspectives on AI intimacy and views on infidelity vary greatly across generations.
Amazon Alexa to lose $10 billion this year: report
Amazon Alexa is reportedly on a pace to lose $10 billion this year as the voice assistant never managed to create an ongoing revenue stream.
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