On the 28th, U.S. time, Amazon announced new products in its Echo series. Alexa+ compatible devices, including the Echo Show 16, are expected to be launched in the Japanese market as well.
Amazon announced a range of new Echo devices and plans to launch the Echo Time and Echo Dot in Japan as well. All of the devices are compatible with Alexa+, the next-generation AI assistant introduced in the United States. The Echo Show 16 adds the new Alexa Home Map feature, enabling users to view and operate connected devices. Fire TV is also built in as standard, providing entertainment features such as photo playback.
The Echo Show 16 has a 16-inch display and a camera with a 13mm-equivalent wide-angle lens and night vision. Alexa Home Map enables users to operate and monitor devices on their property on a 3D map, including controlling lighting, playing music and checking security camera footage.
Alexa Photo Frame has a 10-inch touchscreen that automatically syncs with Amazon Photos and selects and displays photos featuring smiles. It is priced at $229.99. The display has an anti-reflective semi-gloss finish, with automatic brightness adjustment and a feature that displays related photos based on factors such as people, places and time.
The Echo Studio newly incorporates a home camera, enabling monitoring and remote operation in conjunction with Alexa+. It also features Advanced Room Adaptation, which adjusts playback to the room's acoustic characteristics. The device has three full-range drivers supporting Dolby Atmos. It is priced at $249.99.
The sixth-generation Echo Dot has a built-in smart hub and supports Zigbee, Matter and Thread. It also includes eero Wi-Fi extender functionality, along with enhancements such as stronger bass. It is available in multiple colours and is priced at ¥17,980.
The Echo Time has a 3.2-inch touchscreen and supports sensor functions including Omnisense. It includes features such as routines, alarms and music playback, while the dedicated stand is priced at ¥5,180.