Amazon has released some insightful data about how its Alexa-powered devices are being used in India as it celebrates its sixth anniversary. The company says that devices like its Alexa smart speakers and Fire TV Stick have been purchased by customers across 99% of India’s postal codes – from metros to rural villages. This heightened customer awareness has resulted in a 200% surge in usage of smart home devices connected to Alexa over the past three years.
The rise in connected devices has led to a corresponding 100% increase in requests to Alexa for controlling compatible appliances like smart lights, plugs, fans, TVs, security cameras, ACs, water heaters, and air purifiers.
The company says that some of the most popular requests that users can conveniently ask in English, Hindi, or Hinglish, include, “Alexa, geyser chala do”, “Alexa, turn off AC after 15 minutes”, or “Alexa, hall ki lights dim kar do”.
Asking Alexa to control lights remains one of the most common smart home requests in India. But the fastest growing categories are smart fans and ACs, which saw a 37% increase in usage over the past year – the highest growth amongst all smart home devices.
Notably, Amazon says that it registered an increase of 12% over the past year in the number of choices of Alexa-compatible smart home appliances available in the market. New devices are being launched by brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, Hindware and Atomberg.
Amazon has also given a rundown of some of its most significant recent feature releases. The redesigned Alexa app makes accessing and controlling smart devices easier with just one or two taps. Favorites, home shortcuts, streamlined activity feeds and improved search makes the app more user-friendly.
Meanwhile, Alexa Connect Kit-enabled bulbs like the new Wipro RGBW lamp allow frustration-free setup without needing a separate hub or bridge. The bulbs link to your Alexa account and connect automatically when first powered on.
Lastly, to celebrate Alexa’s 6th anniversary in India, Amazon has announced discounts up to 50% on Echo devices, Fire TV and Alexa smart home bundles. Highlights include 49% off an Echo Dot bundle with a Wipro smart bulb for Rs 3,899, 59% off Echo Pop twins packs with a Wipro bulb for Rs 4,898, and 40% off the popular Fire TV Stick for Rs 2,999.