How to Opt Out of Amazon’s Alexa Plus Service for Prime Members

For several months, compatible Echo devices have been promoting advertisements and prompting users to experience the new Amazon Alexa Plus for free. Initially, this was an optional upgrade, allowing users to choose if they wished to try it. However, it seems that Amazon has now made the upgrade mandatory, leaving many without the option to opt out. Despite this, users still have a way to revert back to the previous version.

Unexpected Upgrades to Alexa Plus

Recently, a number of Amazon Prime members encountered an unanticipated situation as their Echo devices were automatically updated to Alexa Plus. This transition occurred without prior notification or user consent.

In my case, I had previously encountered promotional messages on my own Echo screen offering a chance to upgrade during the Early Access phase. I decided to give it a shot, but ultimately, I preferred the original Alexa experience and reverted back. The key difference? I had a choice at that time.

Affected users received emails announcing that all compatible devices linked to their accounts would be automatically upgraded to Alexa Plus as part of a new Prime benefit. Many believe a more accurate message would express that this change is involuntary. If users genuinely wanted to upgrade, they likely would have done so by now.

A lively conversation about this forced upgrade is currently taking place on Reddit:

Amazon Alexa Plus upgrade message to Prime users.

Interestingly, I did not receive this notification, possibly because I had already downgraded. However, it remains a possibility that I might awaken to find my device upgraded once again, leaving me with the same unsatisfactory “delightful Alexa experience” as many others.

Issues Reported with Alexa Plus

At first glance, the Alexa Plus upgrade appears to promise improved functionalities such as better multitasking, a more conversational interaction style akin to that of popular chatbots, and the elimination of the need to repeat the wake word for every command. It also claims to understand user preferences better and to perform sophisticated tasks like booking travel or purchasing concert tickets.

Despite these claims, my experience, shared by numerous other users, suggested otherwise. Here are some notable issues I encountered:

Conversations frequently interrupted and veering off-topic
A significant increase in ads
Irrelevant suggestions that raised concerns about Amazon’s understanding of my preferences
Unanticipated activations, with Alexa responding even without the wake word initiated
Problems with smart home integrations, including delayed responses to commands, duplicates, or complete failures to respond
Difficulties with basic commands like checking the weather or playing music on Spotify
An overly casual and annoying voice that was also challenging to adjust

However, I appreciated the ability to issue multiple commands without needing to repeat “Alexa” beforehand. Additionally, certain lights that struggled for connection with the original Alexa finally paired with Alexa Plus, though their activation remained unreliable.

Smart bulbs next to a phone. — Image source: Unsplash

After a week of dealing with the issues, I decided to revert back, which explains the frustration shared by many Prime users.

Downgrading from Alexa Plus

If you share my dislike for Alexa Plus, fret not—you can downgrade to the original Alexa version once the upgrade process concludes. Although Amazon has removed the opt-out option, a workaround exists.

Users can choose from two methods to initiate the downgrade: via voice command or through the Alexa app. The voice method tends to be the simpler option, but many have reported multiple attempts may be necessary after being forcefully upgraded.

To downgrade, just say, “Alexa, disable Alexa Plus.” You can also try saying, “Alexa, end Early Access.” If Alexa emphasizes the benefits of the upgrade, persist in asking to disable it. Once she complies, all devices linked to your account will revert to the original Alexa.

Alternatively, utilize the Alexa app on your mobile device. In the Ask Alexa box, request to end the Alexa Plus service. When prompted for confirmation, simply respond with “Yes.” Following this, you will receive an email confirming your downgrade, along with a link to re-upgrade at your discretion.

Using Alexa app to revert back to original Alexa.

Advertising Concerns with Alexa Plus

Many users, myself included, have noted a noticeable uptick in advertisements with the Alexa Plus upgrade. Reverting to the original Alexa curbed this influx. While everyone experiences ads with Alexa since it’s a free service supported by Amazon, the increased frequency in the Plus version feels unwarranted.

Eventually, Alexa Plus will shift from a free introductory service to a premium offering. Post Early Access, it will be included as a perk for Amazon Prime subscribers, while non-members will incur a monthly fee of $20.

This pricing structure suggests that users should experience fewer ads with the Plus version. Some users have experimented with changing Alexa’s voice settings to different English versions, like Canadian English, which reportedly mitigates ad appearances and might prevent auto-upgrades.

To minimize ad interruptions, consider keeping your Echo in photo frame mode or utilizing a skill that maintains an active background. Both options are less likely to be interrupted by advertisements.

It’s conceivable that Amazon may phase out the original Alexa experience entirely in the future. For the time being, users are not required to accept the forced upgrade to Amazon Alexa Plus if they find it unsatisfactory. Having the option to choose is crucial.

Source&Images