Amazon Unveils the New Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11: What You Need to Know
Amazon has just rolled out updates for its popular smart displays after a significant hiatus. The new fourth-generation Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 promise enhanced features and a fresh design, making them more appealing than ever.
Design Innovations
The first noticeable change in the new Echo Show lineup is the design. Both models now feature a sleek tablet-style HD display, available in 8.7 inches and 11 inches. This design departs from the older wedge-shaped models, opting instead for a more sophisticated and refined appearance, reminiscent of the Echo Studio and Echo Dot Max. The rounded bases allow for better positioning, adding versatility to your home setup.
Improved Cameras for Enhanced Video Calls
Both the Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 come equipped with 13MP cameras featuring advanced auto-framing technology. This allows the cameras to track faces during video calls, ensuring that users remain centered even while moving around the room. However, unlike the former Echo Show 10, these models do not include a rotating display, suggesting a shift in Amazon’s approach to smart displays.
User-Friendly Features
Convenient physical controls for volume and a toggle for disabling the microphones and camera are located on the right side of each display. However, the new displays feature a simple power connection, which lacks a USB-C option, making wired connectivity a bit challenging.
Performance Enhancements
These new models incorporate Amazon’s AZ3 Pro chip, significantly boosting performance and user interface responsiveness. The touchscreen features improved touch and gesture inputs, offering a fluid interaction experience when compared to competitors like the Google Nest Hub Max.
Smart Home Integration
The Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 excel as smart home hubs. They support technologies such as Zigbee, Matter, and Thread, allowing seamless integration with various smart devices. Additionally, enhanced features like Wi-Fi radar provide contextual interactions with Alexa, enhancing the smart home experience.
Price and Availability
The Echo Show 8 is priced at $180 and the Echo Show 11 at $220, both available for pre-order. Customers can expect early access to Alexa+ before the official release on November 12.
Conclusion
Amazon’s fourth-generation Echo Show devices embody significant upgrades in design, camera quality, and smart home integration. These enhancements position them as valuable assets in any smart home ecosystem.
Related Keywords: Echo Show 8, Echo Show 11, Smart Display, Amazon, Home Automation, Alexa, Video Calling
