Vision Australia Radio listeners are set to benefit from the latest advances in voice technology, with Amazon officially launching Alexa+ in Australia.
The next generation of Alexa introduces significant improvements in conversational artificial intelligence, creating a more natural and intuitive experience for users while continuing Amazon's commitment to accessible and inclusive design.
Speaking with Vision Australia Radio's Jason Gipps, Amazon Alexa Country Manager Australia, Kate Gooden said accessibility remains a foundational part of how Alexa products are developed.
"Accessibility really is foundational, along with privacy, to our design," Kate said.
For many people who are blind or have low vision, voice-enabled technology has become an important tool for everyday living, helping users access information, entertainment, communication and smart home features independently.
Alexa+ builds on that foundation by introducing a more conversational experience. Users can speak naturally, ask follow-up questions and even change topics without needing to repeat commands or carefully structure requests.
New accessibility features
One of the most anticipated additions is SightWise, a feature that allows users with compatible Alexa screen devices to hold objects in front of a camera and receive spoken information about what they are viewing.
The feature can identify everyday items such as food packaging and household products, helping reduce the uncertainty that can arise when distinguishing between similar items.
Other new features include the ability to create and manage routines entirely by voice, enhanced smart home controls, expanded information services and the ability to upload documents, manuals, recipes and newsletters that Alexa can reference later through conversation.
Kate said these developments are helping make information more accessible and opening new possibilities for users.
"It really opens up a lot of doors and a lot of independence for people."
A longstanding partnership
The launch of Alexa+ also highlights the ongoing collaboration between Amazon and Vision Australia.
Over several years, Amazon and Vision Australia have worked together on a range of initiatives designed to help people who are blind or have low vision take advantage of voice technology.
These initiatives have included access to Vision Australia Radio through Alexa-enabled devices, support for Vision Australia's library services, community education programs and Alexa training sessions that help participants get the most from smart speakers and voice assistants.
Kate acknowledged the value of the partnership and the role Vision Australia clients and staff have played in providing feedback and insights.
"We love working with you all. It gives us a lot of purpose."
The collaboration will continue as Alexa+ becomes more widely available, with Amazon indicating that future Vision Australia training programs will incorporate the latest Alexa features and capabilities.
Amazon also plans to make Echo Pop devices available for distribution through Vision Australia Radio, helping more Australians access the news and information service and its podcasts through voice technology.
As conversational AI continues to evolve, Vision Australia Radio will continue working with partners such as Amazon to help ensure accessibility remains a priority and that people who are blind or have low vision can benefit from the opportunities these technologies create.
To listen to Vision Australia Radio on your Alexa-enabled device, simply ask, "Alexa, play Vision Australia Radio."
Listen to the full interview with Kate Gooden
- Alexa+ launches in Australia: Amazon and Vision Australia Radio continue to drive accessibility - Interview Highlights from Vision Australia Radio (links to Omny.fm) or
- Ask Alexa to play Vision Australia Radio Interview Highlights on Amazon Music.
