One small step for man, one giant leap for digital butlers

A groaning noise from beneath three duvets and seven pillows sets off an anouncement: “Alexa, flash briefing.” The day’s weather forecast is read out, followed by international news, then local, and finally NBA scores.

It’s the curation that matters with this device. Flicking around your smartphone to get the info you want while still in bed is nothing new. Having it delivered with a single voice command is another matter entirely.

Amazon formally ...