
iQOO Neo 10 launching next week: Check out the expected price, specifications, and more
iQOO Neo 10 launching soon: The forthcoming introduction of the iQOO Neo 10 is expected to fire up the smartphone industry. This item generates a lot of talk, and admirers eagerly anticipate its arrival. With its intriguing features and capabilities, the iQOO Neo 10 is expected to make a big impression.
In this post, we'll go over the specifications of this new smartphone, such as its pricing, release date, and main features. We'll also examine what distinguishes it from the competition and what to expect from this device.
Whether you are a gamer or a casual user, read on to learn more about the iQOO Neo 10 and what it has to offer.
iQOO Neo 10 launch date in India
At the heart of domination lies raw, unrelenting power. ⚡Fueled by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and Supercomputing Chip Q1, the #iQOONeo10 delivers flagship-grade speed, fluid gameplay, and effortless multitasking.Built to match your intensity, on every front.#PowerToWin… pic.twitter.com/BCjgRhKDQS
The Neo 10 will debut in India on May 26, according to an X post from iQOO India. Following its debut, Amazon. in, iQOO.com, and other physical retail outlets will sell the smartphone.
Dual camera sensors and an LED flash are housed in the squircle rear camera module on the back panel, as seen in the brand's teaser image. Inferno Red, the phone's dual-tone design, features white and red accents. Titanium shade will also be an option.
iQOO Neo 10 expected specifications
The iQOO Neo 10's 7,000mAh battery and 120W cable charging support are confirmed on its Amazon website. The phone is said to be the thinnest 7,000mAh model in its class and will have an 8.09mm profile. In addition to carrying a 7,000mm² vapour cooling chamber for thermal control, it will offer bypass charging.
According to the manufacturer, the iQOO Neo 10 would be the first phone in its class that can play games at 144 frames per second. The handset's pricing range is yet unknown, though.
The next smartphone will support UFS 4.1 internal storage and LPDDR5X Ultra RAM. According to the teasers, the iQOO Neo 10 will include two back cameras in addition to a ring-shaped LED flash housed inside a "squircle"-shaped module. In the days preceding the debut, we ought to find out more about the next phones.
Also Read: iQOO Neo 10 India launch date announced: Confirmed to debut with Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC, 2 colours, SuperComputing Chip Q1, and more
iQOO Neo 10 expected price in India
The iQOO Neo 10 is expected to be priced in India. However, the price will be known when the phone is released next week. The handset will be available for purchase through Amazon and the iQOO e-store.
For the latest and more interesting tech news, keep reading Indiatimes Tech.

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Mint
28 minutes ago
- Mint
Best 3 star side by side refrigerator for energy-efficient cooling and more space: Top 7 picks for modern Indian kitchen
A regular fridge may be enough for some, but if you are running out of space or want a more organised setup, then a 3 star side by side refrigerator could be the answer. These refrigerators are designed for families who need larger storage and better access to daily essentials. With a vertical two-door layout, you can find things faster and keep your fridge more organised. The best side by side refrigerators also offer features like energy-saving inverter compressors, smart controls, and multi-airflow systems that keep food fresh for longer. The 3 star rating adds a bonus by keeping your power bills in check. The best side by side refrigerator in India is now more accessible than ever with many options that suit different budgets. In this guide, we will help you choose the right model that offers both function and energy efficiency. This Samsung 653 L refrigerator stands out with its AI-enabled smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Convertible 5-in-1 functionality, making it adaptable to your family's changing needs. It offers five flexible modes such as Normal, Extra Fridge, Vacation, Seasonal and Home Alone, thus allowing you to save energy or increase fridge capacity as needed. The Twin Cooling Plus keeps humidity and freshness balanced, while its sleek silver finish and refined inox design add modern charm to your kitchen. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate its modern features, excellent cooling, and spacious design ideal for large families. Choose this for its smart connectivity, versatile cooling modes, and stylish side-by-side finish. Haier brings a well-balanced solution for modern households with this 596 L frost-free refrigerator. It features 100% convertible fridge space and allows temperature adjustments from -24°C to 5°C. Its Expert Inverter technology ensures efficient and quiet operation, ideal for Indian power conditions. The shiny steel finish blends effortlessly with various kitchen decors while maintaining functionality through adjustable compartments and stabilizer-free operation. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the quiet performance, adjustable storage options, and spacious compartments for daily family use. Opt for this if you want a convertible fridge space with solid inverter efficiency and no digital complexity. This matte black Samsung 653 L refrigerator combines smart AI technology with premium design. With 5-in-1 convertible modes and AI-powered cooling, it adjusts as per your needs and usage habits. Features like Power Freeze, Power Cool, and Wi-Fi connectivity make it ultra-modern. Fingerprint-resistant surfaces, stabilizer-free operation, and built-in aesthetics complete this all-in-one fridge ideal for tech-savvy users. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are impressed by the aesthetics, quick cooling, and AI-powered convenience that suits modern households. Pick this for its sleek black design, smart controls, and highly adaptive cooling features. This 602 L Haier refrigerator offers practicality and innovation with its 100% convertible fridge, Magic Cooling, and Deo Fresh Technology. It adjusts temperatures between -24°C to 5°C, keeping food fresh and odour-free. Its large drawers, external digital controls, and inverter compressor give it a balanced mix of convenience and energy efficiency, ideal for Indian homes. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the convertible modes, ease of use, and overall space management in everyday settings. Select this for its convertible function, excellent storage design, and clean, fresh cooling technology. Haier 598 L refrigerator stands out with its 83% convertible fridge space and expert inverter technology. The sleek graphite black body and powerful cooling options like Deo Fresh, Magic Convertible Zone, and stabiliser-free operation make it a smart fit for medium to large homes. The display panel lets you customise settings easily, while its quiet performance adds to comfort. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are happy with the fridge's quietness, fast cooling, and modern black finish that matches most kitchens. Go for this if you want a stylish fridge with strong cooling, inverter efficiency, and hassle-free use. The 600 L Godrej refrigerator pairs Indian reliability with AI-driven freshness. Its convertible compartments adjust from -3°C to 5°C, perfect for drinks, veggies, or leftovers. The inverter compressor ensures energy efficiency and quieter performance. Stylishly finished in Opera Black with toughened glass shelves, it's built for convenience and elegance, making it a smart and spacious addition to any modern kitchen. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the smart cooling zones and durability, praising its advanced inverter and strong Indian brand value. Pick this for Indian adaptability, flexible cooling zones, and intelligent freshness preservation. With 83% convertible space, the Haier 598 litres 3 star side by side refrigerator is a versatile fridge suited for changing storage needs. Features like Deo Fresh cooling, Expert Inverter, and a wide voltage range operation make it practical and efficient. The Inox Steel finish looks premium, while convenient additions such as a jumbo ice maker and fruit boxes make everyday use more functional. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers highlight its quiet performance, spacious design, and effective inverter cooling for regular household use. Choose this for sleek steel looks, efficient inverter cooling, and handy adjustable compartments. A 3 star side by side refrigerator balances energy efficiency and performance, which is ideal for Indian households facing rising electricity costs. It offers larger storage, quick cooling, and multi-zone compartments—perfect for families that store diverse food items while keeping power bills under control. Side by side refrigerators provide easy access to frozen and fresh food without bending or shuffling. You get large, clearly divided sections that suit Indian cooking needs—from storing leftovers to keeping bulk veggies, dairy, or drinks neatly organised in wide trays and door shelves. Yes, many brands now offer affordable 3 star side by side refrigerators with solid features like toughened glass shelves, inverter compressors, and smart diagnostics. Options from brands like Samsung, Godrej, and Haier cater to mid-range budgets without compromising on quality or performance. Best 3 star side by side refrigerator Colour Weight Special Features Samsung 653 L, 5-in-1 Digital Inverter, Side By Side AI Enabled Smart Refrigerator Silver 100 Kg Smart Things AI Energy Mode Haier 596 L, Expert Inverter, Frost Free Side by Side Refrigerator Shiny Silver 94 Kg Expert Inverter technology Samsung 653 L, Side By Side AI Enabled Smart Refrigerator Black Matt 100 Kg Door Alarm, Easy Clean Back Haier 602 L, Expert Inverter, Frost Free Side by Side Refrigerator Black Steel 94 Kg Stabilizer Free Operation Haier 598 L, 3 Star,Frost Free, Side by Side Refrigerator Graphite Black 97 Kg LED Light, Auto Connect to Home Inverter Godrej 600 L, Toughened Glass Door Frost Free Inverter Side By Side Refrigerator Opera Black 57.4 Kg Smart convertible zones Haier 598 L, 3 Star, Frost Free, Side by Side Refrigerator Inox Steel 97 Kg 2 Sets of Freezer Box, Big Bottle Guard Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.


Hindustan Times
3 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
10 boAt headphones for optimal sound quality at affordable pricing: Top picks with stylish designs and colour options
If you enjoy good music on the move, boAt headphones make a solid companion. Known for delivering premium features at budget-friendly prices, the brand has carved a niche in India's audio market. Their headphones are loaded with tech like noise cancellation, ENx for clear calls, and support for personalised EQ. Add in long battery life, fast charging, and solid Bluetooth connectivity, and you've got devices that punch well above their price. This list of the top 10 boAt headphones brings together the brand's best-selling and top-rated options. You'll find models perfect for working out, binge-watching, long calls, or zoning out during a noisy commute. These picks are popular for a reason. They sound great, last long, and look good doing it. The boAt Rockerz 255 ANC neckband is built for those who want power-packed performance in a sleek and colourful design. It boasts an impressive 100 hours of battery life and features 32dB Active Noise Cancellation to block out distractions, allowing you to enjoy sharp audio in peace. With dual EQ modes, you can switch between Spatial Sound and boAt Signature Sound depending on your mood. Its 13mm drivers ensure every beat is punchy, while AI-ENx tech with 3 mics guarantees crystal-clear calls. Long battery life Crisp call clarity with AI-ENx Neckband design may not suit everyone Boat Rockerz 255 ANC, 100HRS Battery, Spatial Audio, 32dB ANC, Fast Charge(10Mins=24HRS), 3Mics AI-ENx Tech, 13mm Drivers, Bluetooth Neckband, Wireless with Mic Earphones (Magenta Pop) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the battery backup, sound clarity, and call quality, especially for work-from-home and travel use. Why choose this product? Choose this for its industry-leading 100-hour battery, powerful ANC, and AI-powered mic clarity at a great value. The boAt Rockerz 550/Rockerz 558 is an over-ear wireless headphone designed to offer immersive audio experiences with comfort. Fitted with 50mm drivers, it produces rich, booming sound, perfect for music and movies. Its soft padded cushions allow for extended usage without fatigue, while physical noise isolation enhances listening. The 20-hour playback and Bluetooth v5.0 make it a reliable companion for daily use. Large drivers for bass-heavy sound Comfortable for long use Slightly bulky for travel boAt Rockerz 550/Rockerz 558 Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Upto 20 Hours Playback, 50MM Drivers, Soft Padded Ear Cushions and Physical Noise Isolation(Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the comfort and sound quality but note the lack of ANC and heavy build for long travel use. Why choose this product? Opt for this if you want big sound and all-day comfort at an affordable price, ideal for home or casual listening. The Rockerz 480 headphones combine eye-catching aesthetics with functionality. RGB LEDs with six lighting modes add flair, while 40mm drivers ensure punchy, immersive sound. The 60-hour battery means fewer charging breaks. Gaming is enhanced by the low-latency BEAST mode, and dual pairing makes multitasking seamless. Thanks to ENx tech, calls remain clear even in noisy environments, making this headphone a true all-rounder. Long battery life Good audio and mic quality RGB may drain battery faster boAt Rockerz 480 w/RGB LEDs, 6 Light Modes, 40mm Drivers, Beast Mode, 60hrs Playback, ENx Tech, BT v5.3, Adaptive Fit & Easy Access Controls, Bluetooth Headphones(Black Sabre) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers highlight the cool lighting and battery backup. Gamers love the low latency mode and comfort during long sessions. Why choose this product? Pick this for vibrant RGB style, gaming-ready latency, and rich sound that lasts through extended sessions. Designed for audiophiles and gamers alike, the boAt Rockerz 378 neckband offers Spatial Bionic Sound tuned by THX for immersive, accurate audio. The 10mm drivers bring out boAt's signature bass-heavy output. Gamers benefit from BEAST Mode's low latency, while 25 hours of playtime ensures uninterrupted use. With ASAP charging and easy-access controls, it's perfect for on-the-go users who want quality without compromises. Spatial audio precision Good for gaming and music Not ideal for very noisy environments What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are impressed by the spatial audio clarity and gaming performance, but note the absence of noise cancellation. Why choose this product? Select this for spatial sound with THX tuning, long battery, and ultra-fast charging in a travel-friendly neckband design. The boAt Rockerz 550 in Maroon Maverick merges bold design with rich sound. With 50mm dynamic drivers and soft padded ear cushions, it's designed for immersive listening. The 20-hour playback time ensures day-long use. Physical noise isolation allows uninterrupted music sessions, and dual modes, Bluetooth and AUX, ensure you're never disconnected, even when the battery runs low. Dual connectivity Stylish colour option Slightly large for portable use boAt Rockerz 550 Bluetooth Wireless Over Ear Headphones with Upto 20 Hours Playback, 50MM Drivers, Soft Padded Ear Cushions and Physical Noise Isolation with Mic (Maroon Maverick) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the look and feel, especially the audio richness and dual mode use when battery drains. Why choose this product? Go for this if you want style, comfort, and wired backup support along with a strong bass-heavy performance. boAt Rockerz 450 Pro brings exceptional value with its 70-hour playback, Type-C charging, and immersive audio. The 40mm drivers deliver deep bass and clarity, making every genre enjoyable. With quick 10-minute ASAP charging for 10 hours of play, this on-ear headphone keeps up with your schedule. Lightweight and padded, it ensures comfort for long listening hours. Bluetooth v5.0 and AUX support make it a complete package for everyday audio needs. Longest battery in the segment Voice assistant and easy controls On-ear may not be ideal for all-day wear boAt Rockerz 450 Pro Bluetooth On Ear Headphones with Mic with 70 Hours Battery, 40Mm Drivers, Bluetooth V5.0 Padded Ear Cushions, Easy Access Controls and Voice Assistant(Luscious Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers rave about its long battery life and charging convenience, calling it a dependable travel and work companion. Why choose this product? Choose this for its unbeatable 70-hour battery, rich sound, and quick charging to keep pace with your lifestyle. The boAt Rockerz 210 ANC Bluetooth neckband is a stylish and functional choice for anyone seeking immersive sound on the go. It features 30dB Active Noise Cancellation to block out distractions and create a focused audio environment. The 13mm drivers paired with boAt Signature Sound bring out clear highs and powerful bass. With AI-ENx tech, your voice calls sound crisp even in noisy surroundings. It also supports Spatial Audio, enhancing your movie and music experience. Long-lasting battery App control adds customisation Limited fast charging support boAt Rockerz 210 ANC Bluetooth in Ear Neckband w/Spatial Audio, 30dB ANC, AI-ENx Technology, 40hrs Playback, EQ Modes, 13 mm Drivers, Dual Pairing & Fast Pair(Cosmic Blue) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the sound clarity, ANC effectiveness, and app features. Some wish for better water resistance. Why choose this product? Go for this if you want long battery life, ANC, and a premium sound experience with app-based custom controls. boAt Rockerz 650 Pro over-ear wireless headphones combine premium looks with next-gen features. Designed with Dolby Audio for cinematic sound, these headphones let you enjoy an immersive listening experience. With 80 hours of battery life, you're covered for days without charging. The 40mm drivers ensure deep bass and crisp highs, while the seamless touch and swipe controls provide ease of use. Support for both Bluetooth v5.3 and AUX input gives users flexibility, and dual mics with ENx tech ensure clarity during calls. Dolby Audio for rich sound ENx mics ensure clear calls Slightly bulky design boAt New Launch Rockerz 650 Pro,Touch/Swipe Controls,Dolby Audio,80Hrs Battery,2Mics Enx,Fast Charge,App Support,Dual Pair,Bluetooth Headphones,Over Ear Wireless Headphone with Mic (Silver Frost) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the Dolby sound and long battery. Some mention the fit could be improved for smaller head sizes. Why choose this product? Opt for this if you need Dolby Audio, touch control, and marathon battery life in an over-ear headphone. The boAt Rockerz 330ANC is engineered for those who need studio-like audio on the move. Featuring Crystal Bionic Sound by Dirac Opteo, it enhances audio precision and transparency. ANC up to 25dB lets you focus better, and ASAP charge ensures 5 hours of playback in just 10 minutes. With 24 hours of total playtime, ENx for clear calls, IPX4 water resistance, and Bluetooth v5.2, it's built for daily usage across scenarios. IPX4 protection from water Premium sound output Slightly heavier neckband Boat Rockerz 330ANC Bluetooth Neckband in Ear Earphones with mic, Crystal Bionic Sound Powered by Dirac Opteo, ANC, 13mm Drivers, ASAP Charge, 24H Playback & ENx Tech(Gunmetal Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are impressed by sound clarity and charging speed. Some say ANC isn't as strong in louder settings. Why choose this product? Choose this for studio-quality sound, fast charging, and overall performance suitable for work and travel. boAt Rockerz 551 ANC Pro is crafted for those who want maximum noise isolation and long hours of playback. With up to 42dB Hybrid Adaptive ANC, it effectively silences your surroundings. The 40mm titanium drivers deliver rich bass and powerful soundscapes, while ENx dual mics make calling easier. Foldable ear cups and Bluetooth v5.4 make it travel-friendly and modern. Strongest ANC in its class Foldable and travel-friendly Premium pricing boAt Rockerz 551 ANC Pro (2025 Launch), 42dB Hybrid Adaptive ANC, App Support,72Hrs Battery,40mm Titanium Drivers,ENx Tech,Foldable Cups Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphone with Mic (Hazel Beige) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers highlight the strong ANC and powerful sound output. A few mention it feels slightly bulky for prolonged use. Why choose this product? Select this for top-tier ANC, strong audio performance, and battery life that lasts through days of usage. boAt headphones feature ENx Technology that filters background noise during voice calls. This ensures clear two-way communication in noisy environments like offices or airports, making them perfect for remote work, virtual meetings, and regular calls. With features like Adaptive EQ, Dirac Opteo tuning, and the boAt Hearables app, users can customise audio output. Be it love bass-heavy beats or prefer balanced sound, boAt headphones adapt to your listening style. boAt headphones support Bluetooth (v5.2 or v5.4) for wireless usage and AUX input in select models. Dual pairing and fast pairing features further enhance connectivity and multitasking. Battery Life: Ranges from 24 to 80 hours; ideal based on your usage. Active Noise Cancellation: Varies between 25dB to 42dB—choose based on your noise environment. Driver Size & Audio Output: Bigger drivers (like 40mm) deliver more powerful sound. App Compatibility: Enables custom EQ, ANC control, and firmware updates. Call Clarity: Look for ENx or AI-ENx technology for noise-free calling. Design & Comfort: Choose between over-ear or in-ear depending on use—commute, calls, or long hours. Portability: Foldable cups or compact neckbands suit different mobility needs. Bluetooth Version & Connectivity: Higher versions like v5.3 or v5.4 offer stable connections. Charging Speed: ASAP or fast charging can be essential for quick top-ups. Water Resistance: Important for workouts or outdoor use—look for IP ratings. Best children's headphones: Top 10 safe, durable and colourful picks for comfort, learning and entertainment How to pick the right headphones? Here are the best tips to ditch the hype and tune into real value Top 10 JBL headphones for music, gaming, and everyday use you can trust Best headphones under ₹2000 in 2025: 10 budget picks with clear audio, deep bass, long battery and great sound quality Yes, they offer low latency and good audio quality, though they're not specialised gaming headsets. No, but the boAt Hearables app enhances control over features like EQ and ANC. Yes, most models come with built-in support for Google Assistant and Siri. Yes, boAt headphones are compatible with both iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.


Mint
6 hours ago
- Mint
Alexa! Can this Amazon executive make you cool again?
'And it actually played," he says, hands on his knees, leaning into the audience of reporters and analysts at February demonstration of Alexa+, a rebooted, AI-infused version of the virtual assistant. 'Sounds kind of funny right now, but 10 years ago, it was mind-blowing." During that first encounter with Alexa, Panay was working for Microsoft, developing Surface tablets and laptops that earned a cultlike following. Now, he is a year and a half into overseeing Amazon's devices and services—including Alexa, which hasn't changed much in the past decade, even as the tech world has been upended by advances like ChatGPT. After releasing Alexa to widespread acclaim in 2015, Amazon had a head start getting people to engage with AI. But users still primarily ask the voice assistant for things like timers and the weather. Alexa and the devices unit have become a multibillion-dollar drag on Amazon's bottom line, a reminder of how a company known for its limitless expansionary ambitions failed to win at the next big thing. For years, the devices unit unveiled a flurry of products like a house drone, a fitness wristband and a smartphone to see what might land with consumers. Alexa was integrated into microwaves, refrigerators and even eyeglasses. Panay has scaled back the number of launches, focusing instead on ensuring that products like Alexa+ are functioning perfectly before rolling out to roughly 600 million devices. 'I believe simple is always better," Panay, 52, said in an interview. 'Anything you buy from Amazon, you will not only fall in love with, but it's also going to be that much easier to use." Amazon has repeatedly delayed the full release of its smarter Alexa since first showcasing a version in September 2023. In early tests, as generative-AI capabilities were added, it became less reliable for existing tasks like turning on the lights. Responses were too often jumbled or took too long. The company says Alexa+ will be available as an optional software update this summer to most, if not all, customers, though it hasn't announced a specific date. According to the company, the new version of Alexa—which Panay refers to as 'she," a rarity even among employees—will be able to arrange personal calendar events, play the music you want based on a vague description and remember dietary preferences for at-home meals. Alexa will be conversational, able to talk about major sporting events like a human friend, and capable of contacting and scheduling a contractor for house repairs, Amazon says. Panay joined Amazon in October 2023 and inherited some of the delays, but he has also held up its wider release until he is satisfied that Alexa+ will work flawlessly, conversationally and with limited lag time, people familiar with the matter say. He is often testing it out at home and reporting bugs. In one meeting last year, he told staff that he and one of his daughters had prompted Alexa+ to play a top-50 song with only context clues, but Alexa couldn't find the song. He told his team that Alexa+ had to be better at helping people find what they were looking for. Panay built his reputation at Microsoft, where he was known as the 'godfather" of the Surface devices and oversaw Windows. He was instrumental in the popular, minimalist aesthetics of the Surface tablet and was known to ask company engineers about numerous small details. Surface products weren't an immediate success. In 2013, Microsoft took a $900 million charge related to its struggling Surface RT tablet before the Surface Pro 3 became a hit. Panay became the effusive onstage showman, cultivating product launches akin to Apple's. On stage, and most days, he wears all black to simplify his wardrobe decisions and adorns his outfits with gold bracelets or rings, and sometimes flashy Nike sneakers. Panos Panay, shown here in 2017, was well-known for his Surface product launch events at Microsoft. At Microsoft, Panay hosted his friend and comedian Trevor Noah, who's known for his interest in technology, more than once. In 2019, Noah posted on Instagram a photo of himself with Panay in a Microsoft lab, saying he'd asked the executive for 'extra features and free Xbox games." Panay spent weeks preparing for his presentations at Microsoft, said Ryan Day, who worked on the Surface's public-relations team. Panay would ask every team member how they thought a product's story should be told, and he pulled engineers to the side to ask how the hinges on devices would work or to figure out exact dimensions that would entice customers. 'He was obsessed with the mechanics of physical products," Day said. 'He never got up there and winged it." Panay left Microsoft after more than 19 years to join Amazon, where he took over a sprawling division that includes everything from the Kindle e-reader to the Zoox autonomous vehicle and the Project Kuiper satellite-internet business, meant to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. He knows that getting Alexa+ right is critical because it will release to millions of people who depend on the technology across multiple devices. It's a very public rollout. Some new features, such as certain personalized reminders and routines for family members, grocery ordering, creating personalized music, and third-party services like food ordering through Grubhub, haven't been available for early testers. An Amazon spokesman said that nearly 90% of the Alexa+ features that the company announced are available for early users, though it isn't clear how big that group is. The spokesman said that the rest of the features will be available this summer. Teams have demonstrated Alexa+ to Panay every few weeks. At one internal demo late last year, the assistant accidentally duplicated items in a shopping cart for a recipe. It also would default to recommending bananas to everyone since those are one of the most popular grocery items on Amazon. Panay insists that all of Alexa's problems must be ironed out before the release. 'He really has us putting our back into 'Let's be a world-class consumer electronics company,'" said Daniel Rausch, Amazon's vice president of Alexa and Echo, who reports to Panay. Last year, Panay noticed that the Echo Show visual display with Alexa+ had some screens with an easy-to-spot 'back" button but other screens where he had to swipe to go back. He told staff to make the function consistent, saying other, non-Amazon devices had such consistency. Panay—not to be confused with his cousin, Panos A. Panay, the president of the Recording Academy, which organizes the Grammy Awards—was born in the Los Angeles area and is of Cypriot-Greek descent. He grew up in Burbank, Calif., and received a bachelor's degree from California State University, Northridge, and a master's in business from Pepperdine University. Early in his career, he worked at NMB Technologies, where he helped develop products such as keyboards and speakers. He now lives in the Seattle area. Each day, the married father of four wakes up at 4:15 a.m. to journal, typically writing personal memos about the products he and his team are working on. Lately, he says he's learning from 'Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor known for his ideas on Stoicism. 'You can't always be beating yourself up," he said. Philosophical works are 'where I can always be learning and not judging, just trying to be myself at the end of the day." Amazon's original financial strategy was to sell underpriced Echo speakers enabled with Alexa in hopes of getting people to spend more throughout the Amazon ecosystem. It didn't work, and the Amazon devices unit, dragged down by the financial performance of Echo, has overall been a money loser. It became clear that it wasn't going to be profitable alone, which is why the company is now tying Alexa+ to Prime, said a person familiar with the matter. Alexa+ will be included with an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $14.99 a month, or as a separate $19.99-a-month subscription.