Amazon to End Financial Incentives for Alexa Developers

The tech giant will discontinue its programs that pay developers for creating Alexa skills and providing AWS credits, effective June 30, 2024.

Amazon announced it will stop its Alexa Developer Rewards Program and AWS Promotional Credits for Alexa program by the end of June 2024.
The decision is part of a shift towards using more advanced AI technologies, as the company focuses on generative AI and large language models for Alexa.
Less than 1% of Alexa developers were utilizing the incentive programs, indicating a decline in their relevance.
Developers can still earn revenue through in-skill purchases, although this may not compensate for the cessation of direct payments.
The move follows significant layoffs in the Alexa division and reduced emphasis on third-party voice apps, aligning with broader industry trends.