Is it time for a new smart speaker? Amazon is gearing up for its first Devices event since September 2023, set to take place on Wednesday, February 26. These events traditionally showcase the latest Alexa-enabled devices and enhancements to Amazon's voice assistant.
In a separate post, we've delved into what we expect from tomorrow's event. We anticipate an update on Alexa with new AI capabilities. The event invitations featured five versions with different backgrounds spelling out "Alexa," hinting that this will be a focal point of the event.
We're reasonably certain that a new Echo device might be unveiled. It's been some time since we've seen updates in the best smart speakers and best smart displays.
The Amazon Devices event will kick off at 10 AM ET on February 26. Unlike many other events, this one will not be livestreamed by Amazon. However, we'll provide updates here, so bookmark this page for the latest news.
Mike Prospero, U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom's Guide, has been attending Amazon's Devices and services events for over a decade. He will be at tomorrow's event to provide insights and updates.
This year is shaping up to be significant for smart home voice assistants. While Google isn't expected to update its Nest lineup soon, the Gemini assistant is continuously being upgraded. Meanwhile, Apple may push further into smart homes with the HomePod 3.
The future of Alexa is expected to be a highlight of tomorrow's announcement. However, an AI-enhanced Alexa might be delayed until the end of March due to issues with incorrect answers during tests.
Assuming an upgraded Alexa is announced, the question is whether it will retain its current skills. Alexa skills are audio apps that enhance the assistant's capabilities. With Amazon's reported shift toward a more robust AI assistant, will these skills merge with the LLMs used by Alexa, or remain separate?
We do not expect any new Kindle announcements, as Amazon recently released four new Kindles in October. Given this recent update, new e-readers are unlikely to be unveiled at this event.
A new study from Future, the parent company of Tom's Guide, reveals that over 55% of respondents consistently use polite language when interacting with AI, a rise from 49% in the previous survey.
It's been three years since the Echo Dot (5th gen) and four years since the 4th-gen Amazon Echo. Amazon previously updated its flagship Alexa devices every 2-3 years. Meanwhile, Amazon discontinued the Echo Dot with Clock, replacing it with the Echo Spot.
A Wall Street Journal article reported that Amazon was losing billions on its smart speaker business, selling the devices at a loss without a clear monetization strategy for Alexa, which has slowed down the release of new products.
Amazon typically releases numerous products during its Devices events. The last event featured various new offerings, including the Fire TV Soundbar, Fire TV Stick 4K, and more.
This event will be the first hosted by Panos Panay, who took over Amazon's hardware division in 2023. Panay previously worked at Microsoft, where he launched the Surface line and Windows 11.
The event may unveil a new Alexa, teased at the September 2023 event, featuring enhanced conversational abilities and context. Rumors suggest an in-house AI or Anthropic's Claude AI may power this version.
Rumors suggest the new Alexa, codenamed "Remarkable," could cost $5 to $10 per month. It remains to be seen if consumers will pay for Alexa, given that competitors like Google and Apple offer similar services for free.
Stay tuned for updates on new AI smart home apps and other innovations in the smart home space as they become available.
For the latest updates and insights on Amazon's Devices event, please check back tomorrow.
