New Echo devices from Amazon have been announced that use generative AI to interpret and respond to spoken language.
Amazon is finally giving Amazon Alexa access to generative AI now that AI is predicted to be the most discussed subject in 2023. This news was made yesterday at the Seattle-based tech giant’s Devices and Services event, when it was also disclosed that it would be adding a new generative AI model to its Echo range of smart home appliances. Amazon subsequently introduced a new generation of Echo devices that had AI-powered conversational understanding.
The new Echo Show 8, Echo Hub, and Echo Frames are all part of the lineup; they were all created with AI in mind.
According to Daniel Rausch, VP, Alexa and Fire TV, “These new Echo devices give customers more ways to experience the world’s best personal AI – and the growing generative AI capabilities that will be coming to Alexa soon – at home and on the go.”
Price and Features of the New Echo Lineup
For activities like turning on a smart light, switch, or plug, Amazon claims that the new Echo Show 8 model enables Alexa to handle common smart home requests locally, resulting in results that are 40% faster. It also has a 13-megapixel camera that is centered for better video conversations, and it has better audio quality thanks to a new process pipeline that reduces background noise from the surroundings.
The Echo Show 8 will start delivering on October 25 for $149.99 and come in two colorways: Glacier White and Charcoal.
Amazon also revealed the Echo Hub, which it referred to as its first smart home control panel and which was created to make connecting and controlling smart devices easier. It is expected to go on sale later this year for $179.99.
With seven different frame styles available, the new Echo Frames start at $269.99 and provide hands-free access to Alexa.
Improved Alexa support
The new Alexa from Amazon, driven by generative AI, can modify its tone and responses to portray human-like emotions like joy, affirmation, and more. Amazon also claims that it is capable of picking up on minute details, such as a person’s pauses and hesitations that naturally occur during conversation.
