Amazon's Fire TV adds more Alexa-powered video and search features

Amazon has announced plans to roll out an update to its Fire TV media player in the coming weeks that will include enhanced Alexa functionality.

Among the new features is the ability to directly interact with some of the device's biggest name content apps, including HBO Go, Hulu, Showtime and Starz.

For example, you'll now be able to simply say "launch Hulu" to get the Hulu app to start. Those commands extend to being able to verbally order film and television content from the aforementioned content channels and browse YouTube 4K Ultra HD content.

In addition to the app interaction, users will also be able to check local movie listings and search for information about local businesses through Fire TV by simply asking Alexa as they would using the Amazon Echo. Similarly, you'll also be able to ask your Fire TV to read you text-to-speech enabled books.

The move to add more Alexa muscle to the Fire TV should come as no surprise as in recent weeks devices and apps like the Triby and Lexi have led the way for a wide array of new devices powered by Amazon's digital assistant. 

In coming months, we're likely to see even more Alexa-powered devices, not produced by Amazon, introduced by third-party device makers as the $100 million Alexa Fund continues to seed the market with Alexa-enabled products. 

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.