Welcome to the forefront of conversational AI as we explore the fascinating world of AI chatbots in our dedicated blog series. Discover the latest advancements, applications, and strategies that propel the evolution of chatbot technology. From enhancing customer interactions to streamlining business processes, these articles delve into the innovative ways artificial intelligence is shaping the landscape of automated conversational agents. Whether you’re a business owner, developer, or simply intrigued by the future of interactive technology, join us on this journey to unravel the transformative power and endless possibilities of AI chatbots.
The first StrictlyVC of 2026 hits SF on April 30. Tickets are going fast. Register now.
Founder Summit ticket savings of up to $190 end June 26. Join 1,000+ founders and VCs for all-day bootcamp. REGISTER NOW.
Latest
AI
Amazon
Apps
Biotech & Health
Climate
Cloud Computing
Commerce
Crypto
Enterprise
EVs
Fintech
Fundraising
Gadgets
Gaming
Google
Government & Policy
Hardware
Instagram
Layoffs
Media & Entertainment
Meta
Microsoft
Privacy
Robotics
Security
Social
Space
Startups
TikTok
Transportation
Venture
Staff
Events
Startup Battlefield
StrictlyVC
Newsletters
Podcasts
Videos
Partner Content
TechCrunch Brand Studio
Crunchboard
Contact Us
Amazon is introducing a new feature that will allow users to change the personality of its AI assistant, Alexa+. On Wednesday, the company launched three new Alexa+ personality styles — Brief, Chill, and Sweet — that will change the AI assistant’s tone.
In the Brief style, Alexa will respond with shorter, direct responses, while the Chill style will see Alexa answer more like a laid-back friend. Enabling the Sweet style, meanwhile, will have Alexa become warmer and more enthusiastic, offering encouragement and positivity, says Amazon.
The idea of infusing an AI with a personality has been a complicated issue for model makers.
For some chatbot users, a flattering and affirming AI model, like OpenAI’s GPT-4o, led some users to develop an unhealthy dependency on the technology. In a few cases, it even exacerbated the user’s existing mental health issues, leading to crises or even suicides, multiple lawsuits have alleged.
Still, chatbot users have shown a preference for controlling how their AI responds, even writing custom instructions to dictate the AI’s personality. To address this need, OpenAI launched new ChatGPT features in December that allow users to adjust the AI’s base style and tone in terms of its warmth, enthusiasm, and use of emojis, among other things. Despite this, some users are complaining that the latest model is too reassuring by default.
Amazon says its new styles for Alexa have been built on five dimensions that contribute to its personality: expressiveness, emotional openness, formality, directness, and humor. Each style represents specific levels of all five factors. For instance, Brief isn’t just concise, it’s also casual, direct, and uses minimal humor, the company says.
To change Alexa’s style, you can either speak to the AI assistant via a device, like an Echo speaker, or access the feature in the Alexa app’s Device Settings under “Personality Style.”
The company notes that these three styles are only the first to ship, and others will be on the way in the future. At present, the styles are only available in the U.S. market.
Topics
When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.
Last chance to save up to $190 on TechCrunch Founder Summit. Join 1,000+ founders and VCs at all stages for real-world scaling insights and connections that move the needle.
Savings end June 26, 11:59 p.m. PT.
Ford rehires ‘gray beard’ engineers after AI falls short
Asian AI startups launch Mythos-like models as Anthropic’s export ban drags on
Trump administration proposes axing brake-pedal requirement for AVs in a boost for Tesla
Former Infosys chief has a new startup that wants to challenge the IT services world
Here’s why Slate changed the battery in its cheap EV truck
OpenAI unveils its first custom chip, built by Broadcom
HaloBraid raises $7M from Seven Seven Six to end the six-hour hair salon appointment
© 2026 TechCrunch Media LLC.