Amazon Alexa+ Web Browser Access: No Echo Device Required at CES 2026

You don't need a $200 smart speaker to talk to Alexa anymore. Amazon just announced at CES 2026 that its high-powered AI assistant, Alexa+, is now accessible through a standard web browser. It's a major shift that breaks the assistant out of its hardware shell, making the Echo device optional for the first time.

Breaking the Barrier: Amazon Alexa+ Web Browser Access Explained

During the CES 2026 keynote, Amazon detailed how users can now log into the Alexa website to interact with the newer, smarter version of its AI. Previously, Alexa+ was primarily tethered to Echo hardware. This web-based interface allows users to type prompts, get complex answers, and control smart home devices directly from their PCs or laptops.

Expanding the Smart Home Ecosystem

The move is a strategic play to lower the entry cost for new users. By removing the need for a Ring or Echo hub, Amazon is opening its doors to anyone with a browser. It's not just for newcomers, though; existing owners can use the web portal as a powerful secondary control center for their smart homes.