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The Verge
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The Verge

Amazon’s Echo Show 15 review: should anybody put Alexa on the wall?

The Amazon Echo Show 15 is presented as Amazon's latest attempt to deliver on its original vision for a large screen-based device that provides glanceable information for modern families, aiming to replace traditional bulletin boards and paper notes. Priced at $249.99, this device is designed to act as a shared hub for family organization, displaying upcoming calendar appointments, to-dos, digital sticky notes, and shopping lists. It also functions effectively as a kitchen television, enhanced by the recent integration of the Fire TV interface, which allows access to a wide array of streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney Plus, and more. Beyond its organizational and entertainment capabilities, the Echo Show 15 supports all standard Alexa functionalities, including music playback, weather reports, smart home control, and various voice commands. The hardware design of the Echo Show 15 is notably sleek, featuring a 15.6-inch 1080p touch display framed in black with a white mat, giving it the appearance of a standard picture frame. This aesthetic allows it to blend into home decor when not actively in use, functioning as a digital photo frame. It is powered by Amazon’s AZ2 neural edge processor, which offers improved responsiveness compared to previous models, though still exhibiting slight delays in touch interactions. The device can be mounted on a wall in either portrait or landscape orientation, or placed on a countertop with an optional stand. Its size, approximately 15.8 x 9.9 x 1.4 inches, is highlighted as a key advantage, providing a large display without being overly cumbersome, suitable for spaces like kitchen cabinets or open-plan areas. While the device excels in its form factor and potential as a family hub, several areas for improvement are identified, particularly concerning its software and specific functionalities. The initial software was described as underwhelming, with a limited selection of useful widgets. Although Amazon has since released an API for developers, expanding widget options, many users might find themselves tied to Amazon's ecosystem for most functionalities, as external app integration is limited. The widgets, despite their potential, take up a significant portion of the screen, and their customization options are restricted. The device's 5-megapixel camera is another point of concern; it delivers pixelated images and suffers from video freezing and lagging during calls, making it less effective for communication compared to other Echo Show models that feature more robust cameras and auto-framing capabilities. Cable management is presented as a practical challenge for wall-mounted installations, as the device comes with a five-foot power cable, requiring users to consider how to conceal the cord or position the unit near an outlet. Optional stands and mounts offer different flexibility and orientation options, catering to various placement needs. The smart home control aspect of the Echo Show 15 is also found to be somewhat limited, lacking a built-in Zigbee radio and offering only basic individual device controls through its widget, rather than comprehensive group controls. Despite these limitations, the Fire TV integration and enhanced Photo Frame mode are significant improvements, positioning the Echo Show 15 as a leading smart display within the Echo lineup for those seeking a large, visually integrated device for entertainment and organization. The review concludes by advising potential buyers to consider their reliance on Amazon's ecosystem and the evolving third-party widget support before committing to the device. #AmazonEchoShow15 #SmartDisplay #Alexa #SmartHome #FamilyHub #WallMountedTech #FireTVIntegration #GadgetReview #HomeTechnology #AmazonEchoShow15 #SmartDisplay #Alexa #SmartHome #FamilyHub #WallMountedTech #FireTVIntegration #GadgetReview #HomeTechnology
36 months ago
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I bought this $30 accessory and it completely changed how I use the Echo Show 15
I bought this $30 accessory and it completely changed how I use the Echo Show 15
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This smart display has earned a permanent spot on my desk — and it’s 50% off right now
This smart display has earned a permanent spot on my desk — and it’s 50% off right now
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“Alexa, clean the kitchen, please”
“Alexa, clean the kitchen, please”
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I bought this $30 accessory and it completely changed how I use the Echo Show 15
The author discusses their previous love-hate relationship with the Echo Show 15, highlighting its benefits as a wall-mountable smart display but noting limitations in widget customization and the original inability to easily switch between portrait and landscape modes. The device was initially mounted vertically to cover wall blemishes left by an old alarm control panel and to fit a key rack underneath, which prevented repositioning to landscape mode. This became an issue after Amazon introduced Fire TV functionality, which primarily operates in landscape orientation. While exploring Amazon deals, the author discovered a new Sanus Rotating Wall Mount specifically designed for the Echo Show 15. This accessory, priced at $30, retains the flush-to-wall design of the original mount while adding the capability to rotate the smart display 90 degrees between portrait and landscape modes. The purchase also included a 6-foot extension cable for $15, which provided more flexibility for power cable management compared to the device's standard 5-foot cable. The installation process involved attaching one part of the mount to the wall and the other to the back of the Echo Show 15. The author noted a minor challenge during installation, realizing that the power cable needed to be plugged in before fully securing the rotating piece to ensure proper fit and functionality. Once installed, the mount allowed for effortless rotation of the device, and its secure grip prevented accidental repositioning. Transitioning to landscape mode significantly enhanced the Echo Show 15's utility. The author could now fully utilize the Fire TV mode, including the recently added Fire TV Channels for streaming. The experience was further improved by using an Alexa Voice Remote Pro, though it was noted that its customizable buttons do not function with the Echo Show 15. The increased screen real estate in landscape mode also facilitated viewing multiple security camera feeds simultaneously, which proved useful for monitoring a toddler and a dog. Additionally, the author explored Amazon Luna, the cloud gaming service, on the Echo Show 15. While a Luna+ subscription is $9.99 monthly, some games are free with Amazon Prime. The author successfully played Rocket Racing, noting minor frame drops and stuttering but still managing a win. This demonstrated the device's potential for casual gaming, including party games like Jackbox, which are well-suited for a kitchen setting. In total, the upgrade cost approximately $65, including the rotating wall mount, extension cable, and a key rack shelf. This investment transformed the author's static smart display into a more versatile device. The author expresses satisfaction with the project's outcome, despite a continued desire for more customizable home screen widgets and a custom widget builder in the Alexa app. The article concludes by recommending the Echo Show 15, especially when paired with a rotating wall mount, for those seeking a flush wall-mounted smart display for family use. #EchoShow15 #SmartDisplay #SmartHome #AmazonAlexa #RotatingWallMount #FireTV #HomeGadgets #TechUpgrade #AccessoryReview
The Rainbow Times
The Rainbow Times
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This smart display has earned a permanent spot on my desk — and it’s 50% off right now
The author shares their experience with the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) smart display, highlighting its utility for a work-from-home setup. The article positions the Echo Show 5 as a versatile device that, despite its small size, offers significant functionality typically found in larger smart displays. Currently, the device is available at a 50% discount on Amazon, priced at $45, down from its original price of $90. This offer includes charcoal, glacier white, and cloud blue color options. The Echo Show 5 measures 5.8 x 3.6 x 3.2 inches, making it compact enough to fit beneath a monitor or in a small corner of a desk. Its 5.5-inch touchscreen provides an interactive interface for controlling smart home devices, playing music from services like Amazon Music Unlimited, accessing information from Alexa, and setting timers. The device also features a 2MP front-facing camera, useful for video calls and remote home monitoring via the Alexa app. An improved microphone array enhances Alexa's ability to understand voice commands. For privacy, the Echo Show 5 includes a physical camera shutter and a button to disable both the microphone and camera. From a productivity standpoint, the author notes that having the smart display on their desk serves as a valuable secondary screen, allowing for quick access to information without interrupting workflow on the main computer. This setup contrasts with previous experiences using a Google Nest Hub Max or a portable touchscreen monitor, emphasizing the convenience of an integrated virtual assistant. A notable feature is the ability to view feeds from various home security cameras, including Ring doorbells and devices from Eufy and TP-Link Kasa, directly on the Echo Show 5's screen. This functionality enables quick checks on children, deliveries, or general home security while working. While the Echo Show 5 is presented as a strong option for a desk, the article also mentions the Echo Show 8 as an alternative for those seeking a larger screen and enhanced audio capabilities. The Echo Show 8 offers dual speakers with spatial audio, an upgraded 13MP camera, and integrated Fire TV features, making it suitable for video consumption and entertainment. However, for a compact and feature-rich smart display at a budget-friendly price, the Echo Show 5 is recommended as a practical addition to any home office or bedside table. #EchoShow5 #SmartDisplay #AmazonAlexa #HomeOffice #SmartHomeDeals #Productivity #HomeSecurity #TechGadgets
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“Alexa, clean the kitchen, please”
Connecting a robot vacuum to Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant enhances the hands-free cleaning experience, allowing users to control their vacuum without needing to open a smartphone app or press buttons directly on the device. Most robot vacuum manufacturers offer Alexa integration, with varying levels of functionality. Basic commands typically include starting, stopping, pausing, and docking the vacuum. More advanced features, available with vacuums capable of mapping a home, enable specific room cleaning commands, such as instructing the robot to clean only the kitchen or living room. The process for connecting a robot vacuum to Alexa is largely consistent across different brands. Users begin by opening the Alexa app, navigating to 'Skills & Games,' and searching for their robot's manufacturer. After selecting the appropriate skill (often labeled 'Robot Vacuum' or 'Home'), they tap 'Enable to Use' and follow the prompts to link their account by entering their username and password. Once accounts are linked, a confirmation pop-up appears, leading to a prompt to 'Discover Devices.' If the device isn't automatically displayed, users can find it under the 'Devices' tab and 'Discovered Devices.' From there, the robot's name can be customized in the settings to simplify voice commands, with a recommendation to use generic names like 'robot' or 'vacuum' to avoid confusion with personal contacts. Some manufacturers, including Roborock, iRobot, Eufy, and Ecovacs, have integrated the Alexa pairing process directly into their robot vacuum apps, streamlining the initial setup. This involves accessing a 'Voice Control,' 'Smart Home,' or 'Smart Integrations' option within the robot’s app to connect to Amazon Alexa. Common Alexa voice commands for robot vacuums include 'Alexa, ask [name of vacuum] to start cleaning,' 'Alexa, ask [name of vacuum] to stop cleaning,' and 'Alexa, ask [name of vacuum] to go home.' For homes with multiple robot vacuums or specific cleaning needs, some skills might require further input, such as specifying which Roomba to activate or whether a mopping robot should clean after the vacuum. Robots with mapping capabilities can respond to commands like 'Alexa, ask [name of vacuum] to clean the kitchen,' and can even target specific zones if these are set up in the robot’s app. Additionally, some robots can send announcements to Echo devices, notifying users when they need assistance or have completed a cleaning task, a feature that can be managed in the Alexa app settings. Robot vacuums can also be integrated with Alexa Routines and Hunches for automated operation. Routines allow users to set up triggers for their vacuum, such as initiating cleaning when leaving the house or in response to other smart home device actions. To create a Routine, users go to 'More' > 'Routines' in the Alexa app, name the routine, choose a trigger, and add 'Power On' or 'Power Off' for their robot vacuum as an action. Alexa Hunches, an AI-powered feature, enable the assistant to proactively decide when to run the vacuum based on user habits and the status of other connected smart home devices, like lights or motion sensors, to determine if nobody is home. Hunches for robot vacuums can be enabled via 'More' > 'Settings' > 'Hunches' in the Alexa app, where users can toggle on 'Vacuum when nobody’s home' and select their vacuum from the list. #robotVacuum #Alexa #smartHome #voiceControl #smartCleaning #amazonAlexa #homeAutomation #alexaRoutines #alexaHunches
The Verge
The Verge
How Amazon Echo Works
The Amazon Echo, a cylindrical device that measures approximately 9.25 inches in height and 3.27 inches in diameter, functions as more than just a Bluetooth speaker. It represents a step towards voice-controlled computing, enabling users to interact hands-free with technology. The device connects to the internet via a home WiFi network and is constantly listening for a "wake word." Once activated, it sends voice commands to the Alexa Voice Service in the cloud for interpretation and response. An array of microphones allows it to pick up voices from across a room, even amidst background noise. Amazon continuously integrates new services and has opened the Alexa cloud service to third-party developers, expanding its capabilities. The Echo's hardware includes a microphone on/off button and an action button, alongside a rotatable ring for volume adjustment. A seven-microphone array, utilizing beamforming technology and noise cancellation, captures voice commands, which are then transmitted to the cloud. A light ring at the top indicates status through various colors and motions. The device is powered by a 21-watt adapter, making it non-portable. Internally, it features two downward-firing speakers: a 2.5-inch woofer and a 2-inch tweeter, covered in cloth for sound projection. Teardowns reveal three circuit boards: one for power and speaker drivers, another for control buttons, volume wheel, status LEDs, and microphones, and a third containing the primary processing and communication components, including a TI DM3725 ARM Cortex-A8 Core Digital Media Processor, NAND flash memory, LPDDR1 RAM, and a Qualcomm Atheros WiFi and Bluetooth module. An optional remote control is sold separately, offering a microphone, talk button, and directional trackpad. The Amazon Echo Dot, a smaller and more affordable version, was released in March 2016. The first generation cost $89.99, while a second generation with a more powerful processor was released in October 2016 for $49.99. The Dot's smaller speaker can be paired with external speakers via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm audio jack. Multiple Dots can be placed throughout a house, and Alexa uses Echo Spatial Perception (ESP) to respond from the nearest device. Connectivity to a home WiFi network is essential for the Echo's operation, supporting dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n WiFi. It does not support ad-hoc, peer-to-peer, enterprise, or public networks requiring extra authentication. The device itself performs minimal processing; instead, it sends voice commands to the cloud-based Alexa Voice Service. Alexa interprets these commands and routes them to appropriate web services, converting responses into audio for the Echo and displaying text and graphics on the Alexa app home screen. The Echo also connects to other devices, such as smartphones, via Bluetooth. Users can manage the Echo remotely using the Alexa app, available for Amazon Fire OS, Android, or Apple iOS devices, or via Alexa's Amazon homepage. The app or website allows for setup, settings changes, help access, list management, timer and alarm control, and configuration of news and music services. Users can add household members, though this may authorize purchases from the primary account unless disabled. Alexa's voice-recognition algorithms improve over time, adapting to individual speech patterns. The app provides feedback options to correct misinterpreted commands and offers a "Voice Training" session. Third-party "skills" further expand functionality, allowing users to order rides, play games, get news, or control smart home devices. Echo can answer a wide range of questions about time, weather, traffic, sports, news, and local establishments. It plays music from various services like Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and TuneIn, and can stream music from smartphones via Bluetooth. Voice commands control music playback, and users can request specific songs or genres. It also plays audiobooks via Audible, utilizing Whispersync, and can set sleep timers. Users can order digital music, Amazon Choice products, and Prime-eligible items, with optional confirmation codes for security. The Echo integrates with compatible smart home brands like Insteon, Belkin WeMo, Philips Hue, ecobee, Samsung, Nest, SmartThings, and Wink, allowing voice-activated control of lights and appliances. Complex actions can be set up via IFTTT (If This, Then That) channels. As of early November 2016, the device understands North American and UK English, and German. Echo was initially offered to Amazon Prime members in late 2014 and became widely available in June 2015 for $179.99, with an optional remote for $29.99. Amazon continually updates its capabilities, and the free availability of the Alexa service to third-party developers ensures ongoing expansion of voice-based services. Reviewers praise the Echo's accurate natural speech recognition, even at a distance or with background noise, and its useful responses and decent sound quality. While data collection and privacy are considerations, users can disable the microphone, and status lights indicate when audio is being sent to the cloud. The Amazon Echo represents a significant step towards integrated virtual home assistants, offering hands-free control for various daily tasks. #AmazonEcho #SmartSpeaker #VoiceAssistant #AlexaVoiceService #SmartHome #InternetOfThings #GadgetReview #Technology #ArtificialIntelligence
HowStuffWorks
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Alexa Gets The Smart Button She Deserves
The article discusses a significant improvement in the Amazon Alexa ecosystem with the integration of proper smart button accessories, specifically highlighting the Philips Hue Dimmer Switch and Aurora. Historically, the Alexa ecosystem has lacked versatile physical control options for smart home routines, a stark contrast to platforms like Apple HomeKit. The author previously relied on the discontinued and somewhat clunky Amazon Echo Buttons for triggering routines, noting their large size, excessive brightness, and limited functionality. However, recent network updates within Alexa have changed this landscape. A smartphone alert from Alexa indicated the linking of new network resources, which, unlike previous spammy or intrusive notifications, brought good news: the Hue Dimmer Switch and Aurora are now visible within the Alexa app. This development introduces what appears to be an entirely new "Remote" device type within Alexa, though the author notes the Alexa app is constantly evolving without clear communication from Amazon regarding updates. The integration means users can now configure these Hue buttons to trigger various Alexa routines or actions, greatly enhancing the physical control capabilities of an Alexa-centric smart home. While the author has not yet fully explored the new functionality due to travel, a fellow blogger, Adam Miarka, has begun configuring his Hue switches. Miarka identified an initial limitation: Alexa does not override the existing Hue button functionality. This means that when a Hue button is pressed, both its programmed Hue action and its newly assigned Alexa routine will fire simultaneously, a factor users need to consider when setting up their automations. The author plans to keep the Aurora's existing functionality but intends to repurpose at least one Hue dimmer switch to act solely as an Alexa trigger for tasks such as initiating music playback or controlling Cree smart lighting. This new integration addresses a long-standing gap in the Alexa smart home experience by providing dedicated, versatile physical buttons, offering a more intuitive and accessible way for users to interact with their smart devices beyond voice commands. #Alexa #SmartHome #SmartButtons #PhilipsHue #HomeAutomation #AmazonEcho #TechIntegration #IoT
FSR magazine
FSR magazine