Alexa+ can now generate AI podcasts on any subject, if you prefer not to listen to human-hosted podcasts.

      Amazon's newest feature for Alexa+ is podcasting without the need for podcasters.

      Amazon has launched a new AI capability in Alexa+. This feature aims to assist anyone interested in a podcast on a uniquely specific subject. The tech giant has introduced Alexa Podcasts, allowing users to generate podcast-style audio episodes on demand. According to Amazon, users can request an episode on "virtually any topic," and Alexa will create the audio in just a few minutes, requiring no documents, uploads, or preparation.

      How does it function?

      The operation is quite straightforward. You simply ask Alexa+ about a topic you wish to learn about, and it gathers pertinent information to create a personalized audio episode. Alexa first provides an outline of the content it will cover and allows you to modify the length or direction of the conversation before producing the final episode.

      Once you approve the outline, it generates a recording featuring AI-generated voices for the host. Users will receive a notification on their Echo Show device or within the Alexa app when the episode is ready. The completed episode can also be accessed later in the Music and More section or streamed through the Alexa app while out and about.

      What types of podcasts can you produce?

      Amazon’s new functionalities effectively transform your inquiries into quick audio lessons. Examples of available topics include current news, sports summaries, new music releases, films, history, and many others. As stated in the announcement, Alexa+ can source information from over 200 news outlets and other resources. Amazon highlighted partnerships with well-known entities such as the Associated Press, Reuters, The Washington Post, TIME, Forbes, Business Insider, Politico, USA Today, and publishers from Condé Nast, Hearst, and Vox. Accessing these platforms was crucial to ensure the delivery of accurate information to users.

      Alexa Podcasts is currently available to Alexa+ users in the United States. The company is also investigating similar forms of on-demand custom audio, which could include tailored news briefings and content based on user-provided information or documents. This evolution makes Alexa feel less like a simple voice assistant and more like a customized media platform. While Alexa can now summarize, clarify, and serve as a mini podcast host, human podcasters likely don't need to be overly concerned yet.

      Earlier this year, Amazon also rolled out Alexa+ on the web to assist with meal planning and grocery orders. Clearly, Amazon is positioning Alexa+ as your go-to tool for nearly everything.