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Amazon Alexa can now alert you when something new might tempt you to shop

Amazon is adding a new Alexa-powered feature called “Update Me When” that can send personalized alerts about product launches, tours, books, shows, and other events that could trigger a purchase.

Amazon has introduced a new feature for its Alexa shopping assistant, called "Update Me When," designed to keep users informed about potential purchases. This AI-driven tool sends personalized notifications to consumers based on events that could lead to a buying decision. Users could utilize the feature to monitor the launch of a favorite brand's new product range, the debut of a new TV season, an artist's concert tour, a new book release from a favorite author, or the introduction of a new tech gadget.

The launch of "Update Me When" is part of Amazon's growing series of AI-powered shopping features, which indicate a shift in the company's AI strategy. Traditionally, Alexa primarily answered product queries directly from consumers. Now, the assistant can predict potential purchases before the shopper even considers asking. While users initially need to set these alerts manually, Amazon may eventually automate this process or enable users to subscribe to alerts while browsing their favorite products.

Other Alexa for Shopping features include price tracking, personalized deals, shopping guides, cart creation, historical pricing tracking, AI-driven product overviews, handwritten list transcription, item comparison, and more.

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