Amazon lets some US users text Alexa to shop
Amazon is rolling out a text-message version of its Alexa AI agent that can search for, add to cart and buy items, according to TechCrunch.
The facts
- According to TechCrunch, Amazon says select US customers will get a text asking them to switch on the shopping feature.
- Users can text Alexa in natural language to search for items, add them to a cart and buy them.
- The agent can also manage lists, track prices, compare products, check order status and search with a photo of an item or outfit.
- Amazon says the feature will reach more people in the coming weeks, and those not invited can join a waitlist.
Case notes · Danny's take
Why it matters
Amazon has blocked an outside AI agent from its site and is now building its own. That's not an accident. The platform that owns the shop wants to own the conversation too. Whoever sits between you and the checkout decides what you see first.
For builders
Third-party shopping agents depend on platforms that can shut the door, as Amazon did in September. DoorDash says outside agents placed only hundreds of orders on its platform, and it is focusing on its own text agent. If you build agents, own the user relationship, or expect to be blocked.
Not financial advice. Do your own investigation.
This story was summarised with AI from TechCrunch's reporting and checked against our editorial policy. Danny's take reflects his views. Disclaimer.
Danny Walter
Founder of Moon Republic, Volt Terminal and Moon Republic Academy. Author of The Market Is a Crime Scene and After the Applause.