It was a big launch day for the world’s online shopping destination. First, Amazon unveiled a series of new Echo devices, including the revamped Echo Show 8, the Echo Hub, and updated Echo Frames, all aimed at providing an enhanced Alexa experience building on the rampant tech company theme of having something to do with AI in every presentation and product. The Echo Show 8 has a more contemporary design than its predecessor, better audio-video capabilities, and faster smart home request processing. It also has a Photos Edition variant for a photo-centric experience. The Echo Hub is a wall-mountable control panel to simplify smart home device management.
On the fashion front, Echo Frames have been rejuvenated with trendy designs, enhanced battery life, and better audio. In partnership with Safilo, Amazon also launched Carrera Smart Glasses, blending eyewear design with Alexa’s capabilities. Safilo is an Italian eyewear designer that has produce high-profile glasses for the likes of Dior and Fendi, among many others.
| Product | Description and Features | Price and Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Echo Show 8 | – New design with edge-to-edge glass and soft curvatures – Improved processor and local processing of smart home requests – Enhanced audio and video capabilities – Built-in smart home hub | $149.99; Shipping on October 25 |
| Echo Show 8 Photos Edition | – Features a photo-forward mode on the high-resolution screen – 25 GB storage from Amazon Photos | $159.99; Available later this fall; Comes with a six-month PhotosPlus subscription for $1.99/month thereafter |
| Echo Hub | – Wall-mountable smart home control panel with customizable dashboard – Thin, eight-inch, touch-enabled display – Built-in smart home hub | $179.99; Available later this year |
| Echo Frames | – Next-generation design with Alexa on-the-go – Five new styles, improved battery, and enhanced audio – Improved Alexa performance | Starting at $269.99; Pre-orders notification sign up available |
| Carrera Smart Glasses | – Alexa-integrated eyewear in iconic Carrera designs – Fashion-forward frame styles | $389.99; Pre-orders notification sign up available |
The Carrera Smart Glasses With Alexa
Judging by the model shots plastered across Amazon’s pages, the Carrera Smart Glasses with Alexa are a sophisticated looking piece of technology. They have a frame made from Mazzucchelli Italian acetate and titanium which is a mouthful but will no doubt impress your date.
Other than that, they are compatible with most modern smartphones, and their data connection relies on the Alexa app. They have up to 6 hours of continuous usage and 14 hours with moderate usage. The glasses are splash-resistant and they come with a 1-year warranty.
| Feature/Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Cruiser: 60-13-147mm |
| Weight | Cruiser with sunglass lenses: 46.3g |
| Material | – Front frames: Mazzucchelli Italian acetate with premium metal tone finishes. <br>- Temple tips: Soft-touch silicone, lightweight titanium temple core. Adjustable for comfort behind the ear. |
| Smartphone Compatibility | Supports Android 9.0+ and iOS 14+. Some smartphones not compatible for Alexa voice control. |
| Subscriptions and Services | Some skills and services may require fees. |
| Data Connection | Uses Alexa app on a smartphone with data plan or wifi. Carrier charges might apply. |
| Battery & Power | – 6 hours of media playback/talk time at 80% volume. <br>- 14 hours with moderate usage. <br>- Full charge in approx. 2 hours 30 minutes. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 with Multipoint Connection, HFP support for calling, A2DP for audio streaming, AVRCP for voice control. |
| Speakers | 2 microspeakers (1 in each temple) with optimized acoustic architecture. Proprietary audio front end algorithms for enhanced Alexa performance. |
| Microphones | 4 beamforming microphones (2 in each temple). |
| Water Resistance | IPX4: Splash-resistant against water and sweat. |
| Sensors | Hall sensor, Ambient light sensor, and Accelerometer. |
| Warranty & Service | 1-year limited warranty. Optional 2-year extended warranty available for U.S. customers (sold separately). |
| Included in the Box | 1 pair of Carrera Smart Glasses with carrying case, charging stand, and USB-A to USB-C cable. Power adapter sold separately. |
| Privacy Features | Wake word technology, streaming indicators with LED feedback, mic-muting, options to view/delete voice recordings, and more. |
The Fire Stick Chorus Line
Amazon has also updated its Fire TV lineup. The new Fire TV Stick 4K Max, priced at $59.99, includes the Fire TV Ambient Experience, a faster 2.0 GHz quad-core processor, Wi-Fi 6E support, and 16GB of storage. This device provides 4K Ultra HD visuals and Dolby Atmos sound. The Fire TV Stick 4K, available for $49.99, has improved power and Wi-Fi 6 support. Amazon also introduced the Fire TV Soundbar for $119.99, delivering quality sound in a compact design. The Fire TV experience now uses generative AI for a more natural voice search. U.S. customers buying a new Fire TV device will get a six-month MGM+ subscription at no extra cost. All new devices emphasize sustainability, with reduced carbon footprints and recyclable packaging. Both Fire TV Stick models are up for pre-order on Amazon.com.
Fire TV Stick 4K Max
- Features and Specs:
- First streaming media player with Fire TV Ambient Experience
- 2.0 GHz quad-core processor
- Supports Wi-Fi 6E
- 16GB storage (2x the previous generation)
- 4K Ultra HD support with Dolby Vision, HDR, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio
- Price: $59.99
- Availability: Available for pre-order on Amazon.com
Fire TV Stick 4K
- Features and Specs:
- Support for Wi-Fi 6
- Updated 1.7 GHZ quad-core processor (30% more powerful than previous generation)
- Vibrant 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR, HLG, and HDR10+
- Alexa Home Theater compatibility
- Price: $49.99
- Availability: Available for pre-order on Amazon.com
Fire TV Soundbar
- Features and Specs:
- Two-channel companion device
- Supports DTS® Virtual:X and Dolby Audio
- Compact 24-inch design
- Compatible with all Fire TV devices
- Bluetooth connectivity for other devices
- Price: $119.99
- Availability: Available for purchase
