Amazon users can now text shopping lists to Alexa

Amazon has launched a new feature for its Alexa for Shopping service that enables customers to purchase goods by sending text messages to an AI assistant. Users are able to describe the items they wish to buy or send a photograph, prompting the assistant to provide recommendations and place orders on their behalf.

This service expands on the original Alexa for Shopping experience introduced in May. The contact, appearing as “Amazon Alexa” on mobile devices, can handle requests such as buying groceries, suggesting gifts, or identifying items from photos. According to the company, the system learns personal preferences, such as vegan requirements, and monitors prices to alert users when tracked items go on sale.

The feature is currently being rolled out to a limited number of users in the US who will receive an invitation via text message. Amazon stated that the service will be available to “millions more customers” over the next few weeks.

Rajiv Mehta, vice president of Conversational Shopping at Amazon, said: “Customers often jot down what they need the moment they think of it in their notes, in their messages, in their group chats.” He added: “Now with Alexa for Shopping, your personal shopping agent is just a text away. Message it what you need and Alexa goes to work on your behalf — searching, comparing, and buying so you can get on with your day.”

Several other firms have recently implemented similar text-based AI capabilities. OpenAI launched a feature last month allowing users to text its personal AI agent, Dot, and DoorDash introduced an Ask DoorDash AI chatbot in September for ordering food and receiving recommendations.