David Pogue: ‘Alexa+ Is a Buggy Embarrassment’

David Pogue, at Pogue’s Posts: Amazon’s “50+ things to try” list mentions that Alexa can “find a home maintenance professional.” So I tried it. ME: I need a septic-system repair. ALEXA: That service isn’t currently supported. I can help with plumbing services instead. ME: Okay, fine. Plumbing services. ALEXA: What’s your plumbing issue? ME: I have untreated sewage pouring out of my kitchen faucet. ALEXA: Is this urgent? Uh … what do YOU think, dumbass? But OK: ME: Yes. ALEXA: When do you need it by? Displays four responses: ASAP, Within a week, Further out, and I haven’t decided yet. ME: ASAP. ALEXA: I’m Alexa, not Shaq. This could only have been funnier if Alexa had responded “The Aristocrats!” (Which great film, is, in fact, available to stream on Amazon Prime.)  ★