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

Amazon has introduced a new feature called Greetings to its Alexa+ service, integrating conversational AI with Ring doorbells. This feature allows users to manage interactions at their door more dynamically, such as directing delivery personnel on where to leave packages, politely declining salespeople, or letting friends and family leave messages when the homeowner is unavailable. Greetings uses Ring’s video descriptions to analyze visitors’ apparel, actions, and items they carry to tailor responses accordingly, without identifying individuals by name. The feature supports specific instructions, like guiding delivery workers to water or snacks or asking them about return times if a signature is required. It also handles interactions with sales representatives and service vendors based on user-set preferences. However, there are potential risks of misidentification—for example, if a friend arrives wearing a delivery uniform, the system might mistakenly treat them as a delivery person. Greetings is compatible with certain Ring Wired Doorbell models, requires the Ring Premium Plan with video descriptions enabled, and is currently rolling out to Alexa+ Early Access users