Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Amazon Prime Members Upgraded to Alexa+
Amazon has started automatically upgrading Echo devices for Prime members to Alexa+, a new AI assistant.
This upgrade happens without asking users first and is meant to make Alexa smarter and more conversational.
While some people like the new features, others are upset because it's slower, has a different voice, and shows more ads.
Users can switch back to the old Alexa by saying 'Alexa, exit Alexa+'.
Amazon hasn't said much about the complaints but allows users to revert easily.
The upgrade is free for Prime members, but non-Prime users will have to pay after a trial period.
Amazon automatically upgrades Prime members' Echo devices to Alexa+ without opt-in.
Alexa+ offers smarter responses and better conversational abilities but has faced backlash for slower performance and unwanted changes.
Users can revert to the classic Alexa by saying 'Alexa, exit Alexa+', but cannot opt out of the initial upgrade.
Common complaints include slower response times, changes in voice tone, and increased ads.
Amazon has not publicly addressed the complaints but provides a straightforward reversion method.
- Who
- Amazon Prime Members
- What
- Automatic upgrade to Alexa+ AI assistant
- When
- Early January 2026
- Where
- Echo devices
- Why
- To enhance conversational interactions and compete with rivals like ChatGPT and Google Gemini
- Upgrade Type
- Automatic
- Eligible Users
- Amazon Prime Members
- Cost for Prime Members
- Free
- Cost for Non-Prime Users
- $19.99/month after Early Access
- Early Access Period
- Through January 2026
- Reversion Method
- Voice command: 'Alexa, exit Alexa+'
- Common Complaints
- Slower response times, changes in voice, increased ads