Amazon recently held its highly anticipated fall hardware event, unveiling a diverse range of innovative products, including updated Echo speakers, new Blink security devices, and the exciting Kindle Scribe with a color screen. While most of these gadgets won't ship for several weeks, eager customers can take advantage of preorder options available on Amazon to be among the first to experience these new offerings. To simplify the plethora of announcements, we've compiled a comprehensive overview of Amazon's upcoming devices, complete with quick summaries and preorder details for each item.
The standout product of the event is the Echo Dot Max, priced at $100. This updated model features a sleek flat design and a completely redesigned sound system, promising nearly three times the bass of its predecessor. With Amazon's new AZ3 chip, the Echo Dot Max also boasts improved conversation detection and enhanced background noise filtering capabilities.
Constructed with high-quality 3D knit fabric, the Echo Dot Max includes a new LED light ring and convenient touch controls right on the front. It is the first Echo Dot to incorporate a two-way speaker system, featuring a high-excursion woofer and custom tweeter for clearer sound. It supports Amazon Alexa Plus, an advanced version of Amazon's voice assistant, capable of handling more complex tasks. Customers can preorder the Echo Dot Max in black, purple, and white for $99.99, with a release date set for October 29th.
Amazon also unveiled the new Echo Studio, priced at $220, which the company claims is its "best-sounding Echo ever." This latest model supports spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, featuring a spherical design that is 40% smaller than the previous iteration. Powered by the AZ3 Pro chip, the Echo Studio utilizes Omnisense presence detection, allowing Alexa to respond intuitively to its surroundings.
The Echo Studio can connect with up to five Studio or Echo Dot Max speakers via a compatible Fire TV stick for a stunning surround sound experience. Available for preorder in black or white for $219.99, it will hit stores on October 29th, with preorder customers gaining access to Alexa Plus Early Access.
The updated Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 were also introduced, featuring significant upgrades. The Echo Show 8 now boasts an 8-inch display with 720p resolution, improved viewing angles, and a 13MP camera. Priced at $179.99, it will be available for preorder in black or white, with a release date of November 12th.
The Echo Show 11, priced at $219.99, offers an impressive 11-inch screen with 1080p resolution and serves as a smart home hub supporting Zigbee, Matter, and Thread protocols. It also features a refined design, enhanced camera, and new stereo speakers. Customers can preorder this device in either black or white.
Amazon has refreshed its Fire TV Omni QLED, which is now 60% brighter than its predecessor and offers nearly double the local dimming zones. This model supports Amazon’s Omnisense technology, enabling voice control with Alexa Plus. Preorders for the Omni QLED start at $479.99, with shipping beginning on November 5th.
Additionally, the new Fire TV Stick 4K Select is set to revolutionize streaming with HDR10 Plus support and upcoming compatibility with Alexa Plus, alongside Xbox Gaming and Amazon's cloud gaming service, Luna. Priced at $39.99, it is available for preorder before its October 15th release.
The latest Ring Video Doorbell Plus offers 2K resolution and advanced AI features for improved low-light performance. With a price tag of $179.99, it will be available for preorder, with a launch date of October 29th. The doorbell introduces AI-powered facial recognition and Alexa Plus Greetings, turning Alexa into a virtual receptionist.
Additionally, Amazon launched various new Ring cameras, including the Ring Indoor Cam Plus, priced at $59.99. It features 2K resolution and improved low-light capabilities, making it an ideal addition to any home security setup.
Amazon also introduced new Blink cameras, including the Blink Outdoor 2K Plus and the Blink Arc, which merges two cameras for a 180-degree field of view. The Blink Mini 2K Plus and the Blink Outdoor 2K Plus are available for preorder at $49.99 and $89.99, respectively.
Finally, Amazon launched the new Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, the first note-taking e-reader with a color screen, priced at $629.99. Featuring an 11-inch display, improved stylus, and AI-powered search capabilities, it promises to enhance the reading and note-taking experience. The Kindle Scribe models will ship later this year, with details on preorders to be announced.
In conclusion, Amazon's fall hardware event showcased a remarkable lineup of devices that cater to various needs and interests. From enhanced audio experiences with the Echo devices to advanced home security solutions with Ring and Blink, there’s something for everyone. Stay tuned for our detailed reviews of these new products in the coming weeks!
