Amazon is making some big announcements at their big September event today, first up confirming that they’re rolling out new Echo speakers.
Dave Limp, senior vice president of Devices took the stage first at the event and announced a new Echo Dot with Clock.
“Customers ask Echo over a billion times a year ‘Alexa what time is it?’” Limp says. This Echo Dot will have an LED display that shows up through the fabric on the device.
Along with new devices, Amazon is giving Alexa some updates. The voice will now be “more expressive” and you can even set it to sound like your favorite celebrity, for an additional fee. Iconic actor and producer Samuel L. Jackson is the first celebrity voice for Alexa. He can tell you jokes, let you know if it’s raining, set timers and alarms, play music and more – all with a bit of his own personality. Two versions of his voice – explicit and non-explicit. Learn more here.
The new Echo Dot will be available for pre-order beginning today for $59.
The older version of the Echo Dot will still be available.
Amazon also unveiled an all new Echo for $99.99, now available for pre-order. The design looks like the current Echo Plus, but this version comes in new colors. There will also be a kids’ version of the device.
Echo Studio is the first smart speaker that brings 3D audio from Dolby Atmos right into your living room. The device is available for pre-order today at $199.99 Here’s what Amazon has to say about the new device:
It produces unbelievable sound, with space, clarity, and depth. All you have to do is plug it in and the built-in Alexa microphones will automatically calibrate and model the room around you. And you’re ready to go. It works great with the music you’re already streaming today, but works even better with new 3D formats. It’s bold, incredible sound in a simple package.
Echo users will also get a new feature: Alexa Guest Connect. Now your guests can connect to your device and play their music when they’re visiting. Guests can simply say “Alexa, connect my account” and the feature will authenticate the request on both ends and you’ll be able to access your favorite playlists.
If you’d rather listen solo, Amazon has you covered with Echo Buds wireless ear buds. Echo Buds offer noise reduction, crisp audio, and 5 hours of battery life.
This is breaking news, we’ll continue to update as we hear more.
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