Amazon launches web version of Alexa+ for users in Brazil

Amazon users will have more time to experience Alexa+, as the tech giant has decided to extend the early access period for several months. Thus, customers in Brazil can test the new version of the assistant at no cost.

Initially, the trial period was scheduled to last until at least October 2026. However, Amazon exclusively informed Tecnoblog that it has expanded this beta to at least February 2027.

The company stated that it has always considered early access a dynamic cycle, offering interested customers the chance to use Alexa+ and provide feedback to help refine the product before its full launch. This statement suggests that adjustments and opinion gathering are still underway.

It is worth noting that Alexa+ was introduced in February 2025 during an event held in New York, USA. At that time, Amazon executives explained that the new feature uses generative artificial intelligence to generate more detailed responses.

This means that basic functionalities, such as setting a timer, turning on lights, or skipping to the next song, have been surpassed. A user testing Alexa+ in Brazil reported good results, highlighting greater efficiency in agenda management when integrated with a Google account, allowing the assistant to adjust appointments according to the user's context.

Additionally, Alexa+ allows for more natural conversations; it is not necessary to constantly mention the assistant's name, enabling extra questions or commands immediately after the first interaction, similar to a normal conversation. However, the use of generative AI may result in longer delays in certain responses, especially for more complex queries, as Alexa+ takes more time to process before responding.

Alexa+ will be included in the Amazon Prime subscription, which costs starting from R$ 19.90 per month. There is also the option to subscribe only to the assistant for R$ 99 per month.

With the postponement of early access until February, Amazon informed that there is still no set date for general access to the tool, but promised to notify customers in advance before this transition.

Amazon has announced the launch of five new Alexa-equipped devices, which include smart speakers, a sleep monitoring alarm clock, a digital frame, and a 16-inch screen. This new line integrates artificial intelligence features with connected home functionalities.

The announced products are the Echo Dot, Echo Studio with Home Camera, Echo Time, Alexa Photo Frame, and Echo Show 16. In the United States market, initial prices start from US$ 99.99, which is equivalent to approximately R$ 525.

The new Echo Dot incorporates an integrated hub, allowing connection to compatible thermostats, locks, and lights. Furthermore, it operates as a Wi-Fi repeater, expanding network coverage by up to 93 square meters. This speaker uses the AZ3 chip, developed by Amazon itself, along with an AI accelerator that assists in identifying voice commands and filtering noise. The company states that the bass in this model is 50% more powerful than that of the previous generation. The base price of the Echo Dot is US$ 99.99 (about R$ 525), while the child version costs US$ 109.99 (approximately R$ 577) and includes one year of Amazon Kids+ subscription.

Another notable product is the Echo Studio with Home Camera, which combines spatial audio with visual capabilities. The camera allows the user to monitor the environment through the Alexa app, while the assistant can recognize objects and assist with daily activities, such as identifying a cereal box to expedite repurchase. The camera-equipped model is sold for US$ 249.99 (about R$ 1,312), and the standard version costs US$ 219.99 (approximately R$ 1,155).

The Echo Time, designed for bedside tables, features hundreds of dial options and does not have a camera. Its Omnisense sensor detects lighter sleep phases and has the ability to advance the alarm by 10 to 60 minutes, eliminating the need for watches or smartwatches. The device's screen gradually brightens to simulate sunrise. The cost of the model is US$ 199.99 (about R$ 1,050), and the child edition is priced at US$ 209.99 (approximately R$ 1,102), including one year of Amazon Kids+.

For those who wish to display memories at home, the Alexa Photo Frame offers a 10-inch anti-glare screen. It automatically syncs images saved in Amazon Photos and allows users to request travel, pet, or people photos from Alexa. The black version costs US$ 199.99 (about R$ 1,050), while walnut or birch wood options are offered for US$ 229 (approximately R$ 1,202).

The Echo Show 16 features a high-definition 16-inch screen, a body that is about 40% thinner, and a 10% larger viewing area. The Nanomatte variant minimizes reflections by over 90%. This device can serve as a control panel for connected devices, a family organizer, or a digital photo frame, in addition to including Fire TV and a camera with night vision and auto-framing. The Echo Show 16 is available for pre-order for US$ 499.99 (about R$ 2,625), with the Nanomatte version costing US$ 569.99 (approximately R$ 2,992), with shipments expected this year.

All five launches come with the most updated version of Alexa. According to Amazon, the assistant can now conduct more natural conversations, answer questions, and compile data from various sources to perform complex tasks. In models with a screen, it also displays visual content during interactions and structures dialogues in accessible cards on other devices.

Amazon announced to Tecnoblog that it has started offering a new installment system that does not require a card directly within its application. With this, the e-commerce platform aligns itself with rivals such as Mercado Livre and Shopee, which already provide a financing option for purchases without depending on a credit or debit card.

This new feature is in the implementation phase and may not be accessible to all users. The feature, called Amazon Credit, is displayed on both the Amazon website and app, and only account holders can request it after undergoing a credit assessment.

The documentation provided by Amazon mentions the incidence of fees and interest, but the financial details are revealed only to the end consumer. It is important to clarify that this system does not constitute a loan, but rather a balance intended for the installment payment of acquisitions.

Amazon informed that the introduction of this modality will occur gradually, advising interested parties to periodically check the availability of the option. Amazon Credit serves as an alternative to traditional purchases made with a credit card, aiming to expand purchasing possibilities, following the model adopted by competitors such as Shopee, which has SParcelado.

The credit limit and the number of installments granted vary according to each customer, and not everyone will initially receive the benefit of 12 installments. This condition may change depending on usage history and timely payment compliance.

Tecnoblog investigated that the operation of Amazon Credit is not conducted directly by Amazon. In fact, the consumer formalizes the financial agreement with Celcoin Sociedade de Crédito Direto, an entity registered under CNPJ 48.632.754/0001-90, which has authorization from the Central Bank.

There are basic criteria for those who wish to obtain Amazon Credit. According to the company, it is mandatory to be between 21 and 75 years old, have a minimum monthly income of R$1,500, and present valid documentation, in addition to residing in Brazil. All customers who have an active account on Amazon can apply for Amazon Credit, but prior approval through a credit analysis is essential.

After approval, the credit system appears on Amazon. It cannot be used for loans or for purchases on external platforms. Once activated, one simply selects this option during the payment process.