Amazon’s new Alexa+ feature adds conversational AI to Ring doorbells

Amazon is set to revolutionize how users interact with their Ring doorbells through a new feature in Alexa+ called Greetings. This innovative addition allows for a conversational AI that enhances the management of deliveries and visitor interactions. With Greetings, the Ring system can recognize visitors by analyzing their clothing, behavior, and what they are carrying. For instance, if a delivery driver approaches your door, the AI can respond according to pre-set instructions. Users can customize settings to specify where packages should be left and even direct delivery personnel towards refreshments available outside. In cases where a signature is required for a delivery, Alexa can inquire about the driver's return time and relay that information to the user. The feature also caters to sales representatives and service vendors, allowing users to set polite responses like, 'We’re not interested,' when someone arrives to pitch a product or service. Moreover, if users are not at home or are preoccupied, Alexa can welcome friends and family, encouraging them to leave messages when visiting. However, there is an inherent risk associated with misidentification; for example, a friend in a delivery outfit might be prompted to leave a package instead of being invited to leave a message. Greetings builds upon Amazon’s previously introduced feature, “Familiar Faces,” which enabled users to catalog the faces of frequent visitors. While this new functionality aims to enhance user experience, it emphasizes privacy concerns, as it does not identify individuals but rather determines the primary subject for interaction. The new Greetings feature is compatible with the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen) and Ring Wired Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen). It is currently available to users on the Ring Premium Plan who have activated video descriptions and is being rolled out to early access customers in the United States and Canada.