Amazon launches new Echo devices with new design, improved features

Amazon on Thursday night introduced a new line-up of Echo devices, making the biggest changes in design in the last six years. The new Echo devices feature a spherical design, Dolby Stereo Sound, and built-in Zigbee hub. 

The new Echo also sounds significantly better; thanks to a 3.0-inch woofer, dual-firing tweeters, and Dolby processing that delivers stereo sound. As with Echo Studio, the new Echo automatically senses the acoustics of your space and fine-tunes audio playback—just ask to listen to your favorite music and the rich, detailed sound will automatically adapt to your room. For the first time, Echo comes with a built-in Zigbee smart home hub and supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) that helps conserve energy. The Echo has now been priced at Rs 9,999 in India. 

The new Echo Dot has the same spherical design and fabric finish as Echo, making it a stylish way to add Alexa to any space. It packs in a powerful 1.6-inch, front-firing speaker, producing crisp vocals and balanced bass. It is priced at Rs 4,499. 

The new Echo Dot with clock comes with the same enhancements as the new Echo Dot, plus a simple LED display so you can glance at the time, outdoor temperature, timers, and alarms. The tap-to-snooze feature will also be available on Echo Dot and Echo. It is priced at Rs 5,499. 

Echo and Echo Dot will be available in Black, White and Blue. Echo Dot with clock will be available in White and Blue. Echo Dot is available on pre-order starting today, and will start shipping later this year.

“Echo devices have played an integral part in simplifying the lives of our customers. With the convenience of voice, they simply ask Alexa for their favorite music, control smart home appliances or just have a fun time with family,” said Parag Gupta, Head of Amazon Devices, India.