Amazon Alexa and Echo Auto can now name for roadside help • TechCrunch

Amazon at present introduced a brand new characteristic for U.S. drivers who might have help whereas on the highway — like in the event that they get a flat tire or run out of gasoline, for example. At its annual {hardware} occasion, the corporate launched a service known as Amazon Roadside Help, accessible from the Alexa app, or through Echo Auto or different Echo units.

Within the occasion {that a} driver encounters an issue whereas on the highway, they will merely ask Alexa for assist as an alternative of attempting to determine who to name of their native space. Alexa will contact a roadside help supplier who can then assess the scenario and ship assist, the corporate explains.

The service isn’t designed to compete with current roadside help plans, like AAA or these offered by a automobile insurance coverage supplier, however is relatively meant for use by these with out some type of help plan. Amazon says the consumer solely pays for the providers they want on the time.

These prices will fluctuate relying on location and what kind of service is required, however prospects will likely be notified of the pricing from the roadside help supplier and can comply with the service earlier than anybody is dispatched to assist. The suppliers are impartial contractors within the native space — Amazon didn’t title any nationwide manufacturers as companions.

To make use of the characteristic, the shopper will say “Alexa, name roadside help” to their machine or app, then be linked with an agent for an estimate. When the service is confirmed, they’ll obtain an bill with the fee due. The shopper will be capable to full the fee through the cellphone or through Stripe, and the agent will then dispatch the service.

The characteristic is claimed to be coming within the months forward, however Amazon didn’t provide an actual timeframe. Which means we don’t but understand how effectively this characteristic works or how aggressive the pricing being provided will likely be.

The characteristic was certainly one of two additions designed with the wants of drivers in thoughts introduced at at present’s occasion, nevertheless.

One other permits Amazon to inform Echo Auto customers (and even Echo units at dwelling), when a Complete Meals curbside pickup order is prepared. On Echo Auto and thru the Alexa app, customers will obtain the notification in regards to the order, and may then say “Alexa, examine into Complete Meals” to let the shop know you’re on the way in which. Alexa can even provide a welcome message once you arrive with parking directions and alert the shop workers of your arrival.