Alexa+ can now create AI podcasts on any subject, in case you prefer not to listen to human-hosted ones.

      Amazon has recently introduced a new AI feature to Alexa+, allowing users to generate podcast-style audio episodes on specific topics without needing traditional podcasters. This new feature, called Alexa Podcasts, enables users to request an audio episode on "virtually any topic,” with Alexa producing the content in just a few minutes and without the need for documents, uploads, or any preparation.

      How does it function?

      The process is straightforward. You simply ask Alexa+ about a topic of interest, and it gathers relevant information to create a personalized audio episode. Alexa presents a summary of the intended content and allows you to modify the length or direction of the discussion before finalizing the episode.

      Once you approve the outline, Alexa produces a recording using AI-generated host voices. Notifications will be sent to an Echo Show device or the Alexa app when the episode is ready. The completed episode can also be found later in the Music and More section or played through the Alexa app while on the move.

      What types of podcasts can you create?

      This new feature essentially transforms curiosity into quick audio lessons on various subjects, such as trending news, sports summaries, new music releases, movies, history, and more. According to the announcement, Alexa+ can access information from over 200 news sources, including partners like the Associated Press, Reuters, The Washington Post, TIME, Forbes, Business Insider, Politico, USA Today, and publishers from Condé Nast, Hearst, and Vox. Collaborating with these platforms is crucial for providing users with reliable information.

      Alexa Podcasts is currently available for Alexa+ customers in the US. Additionally, Amazon is exploring other forms of on-demand audio, like personalized news briefings and content based on information or documents users choose to share. This development suggests that Alexa is evolving from just a voice assistant into a more individualized media hub. While it can now summarize, explain, and even serve as a small podcast host, human podcasters might not need to worry just yet.

      Earlier this year, the company also launched Alexa+ on the web for meal planning and grocery ordering, indicating Amazon's intention to make Alexa+ indispensable for a wide range of tasks.