What to expect at Amazon's event this week: Alexa 2.0, new Echos, and Fire TV upgrades

Maria Diaz/ZDNET Amazon has been focused on bringing generative AI to Alexa for the past few years, hitting multiple delays in launching new features that the company first announced in September 2023. The delayed Alexa 2.0 seems poised for a 2025 release, as evidenced by the surprise Devices and Services event Amazon is hosting this week. Amid rumors of Alexa 2.0 shortcomings, Amazon skipped its 2024 Devices and Services event, where the company typically announces new Alexa features and hardware devices. Now, the company plans to host an Amazon Alexa-themed event on Wednesday, where it is expected to unveil the voice assistant's generative AI features and finally put an ETA on its launch. Also: 5 ways AI can help with your taxes - and 10 major mistakes to avoid The event will take place on Feb. 26 in New York City and will be Panos Panay's first since joining the Devices and Services division after his Microsoft exit. But aside from new Alexa features, Amazon could be preparing t ... Read full article.