Amazon has unveiled a revised version of its Alexa iPhone mobile app, with a new focus on customization and native Amazon Alexa features. As reported by TechCrunch, the redesigned Alexa app removes the emphasis on third-party skills, instead of focusing “on how consumers are really using Alexa.”
The redesigned home screen in the Alexa app now features a more prominent Alexa button at the top. Users can tap this button or simply say “Alexa” to activate the voice assistant. Beneath this are a variety of suggested custom actions for each user, such as setting alarms, controlling music playback, and more.
How TechCrunch He explains, the Alexa app had previously focused on acting as a sort of daily dashboard, highlighting the weather details at the top, followed by a selection of “Popular Skills” below. In fact, the redesigned Alexa app dramatically reduces focus on skills, moving them from the home screen to the “More” tab at the bottom.
Meanwhile, advanced app features like Reminders, Routines, Skills, and Settings have been relocated under the “More” button as part of the redesign.
However, the changes do not necessarily mean that Amazon has ordered the Alexa home screen.
Because the update moved the Alexa button to the top of the screen, it has left room in the navigation bar for a new button: “Play”, which encourages media playback.
Finally, for first time Alexa users, there is a new approach to in-app hints and tips. Amazon hopes this will help users feel more comfortable with the Alexa experience on their iPhone, as well as through their voice speakers like Amazon Echo.
The new Alexa is now being launched on the App Store for iOS users and will also be available for Android and Fire OS devices. Amazon says the launch will be complete in late August.
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