Amazon has redesigned the Echo, Wall Clock, Echo Auto, and a Microwave!

On Thursday, Amazon launched a range of new Echo smart home devices and introduced a smart plug that enables users to control any power socket using voice. The tech firm has also introduced redesigned versions of the Amazon Echo Dot, Echo Plus, and Echo Show speakers. All of these devices are powered by the voice-activated, artificial intelligence assistant Alexa.

The new Echo Dot, which costs around $49.99, features an updated fabric-based design and more powerful sound. On the other side, the new Echo Plus, which costs around $149.99, features a new elegant design, upgraded sound, and now includes temperature sensors.

The Echo Show, priced at around $229.99, features a 10-inch HD display, upgraded speakers, and a built-in home hub. It comes equipped with premium speakers with Dolby processing, allowing you to stream music and audiobooks in stereo. You can watch TV shows, videos, and movies on it, as well as make video calls and call anyone using the Alexa App on Dot, Spot, and Show. With eight microphones and far-field technology, it can hear you even in noisy conditions.

The tech firm has introduced the brand new The AmazonBasics Microwave which costs around $ 59.99, which is quite reasonable and pre-order is open now. It is compact and can connect with Echo devices. Now it’s easier to defrost peas, make popcorn, cook potatoes, and reheat rice. Quick-cook voice presets and a simplified keypad let you just ask Alexa to start microwaving. The Microwave understands basic commands but fails to understand while timing related instructions are given. Of course, it’s quite basic but a warm welcome to the new member to the family of smart devices! Many more such devices in future will join this family.

Amazon has also introduced Echo Auto at $24.99. It features eight microphones designed for in-car acoustics. The smart design allows it to hear you over music, road noise, and the car's A/C. It connects to Alexa using your phone, allowing you to play Amazon Music, check the news, play Audible books, open the garage door, find the nearest gas station, make calls, set reminders, add items to your shopping and to-do list, manage the calendar, and more. It can also set location-based routines—automated actions that Alexa can start when you leave the office or get home. You can ask for directions, and Alexa connects to supported apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze on your phone. Echo Auto uses your existing smartphone plan and the Alexa app for connectivity and other features. It connects to most cars that support Bluetooth to play music or have an auxiliary input.