Latest Alexa Products So, an Alexa-enabled microwave is something of a surprise, to say the least. The Microwave doesn’t have Alexa functionality built-in. Instead, it communicates with your existing Echo device. Instead of having to push multiple pesky buttons (what a drag), you can now just push the Alexa button and tell the microwave to heat up your meal for one (quite how the meal got into the microwave without you being close enough to just hit the on-button is another matter). Is it worth it? While there’s a novelty value in ordering a machine to cook your dinner, like some sort of tyrannical king or 1950’s husband, it does seem exceptionally lazy. However, with its low price point and sheer entertainment value, there are bound to be plenty of interested amateur chefs and hardcore popcorn enthusiasts. Price: $59.99
InexpensiveCompact designDedicated popcorn button
Small capacityFeels gimmickyRequires existing Echo device
Echo Auto, is, unsurprisingly, an Alexa device for your car. It’s a cheap microphone that connects to your phone for full Alexa functionality, and has been specially designed for the noisy environment of in-car acoustics. Is it worth it? Anyone who has tried to use a voice assistant in their car before will know that it’s not always easy – other motorists will peer in curiously as you, red-faced, scream Alexa’s name ever louder in the hope you’ll be picked up over the sound of rubber on asphalt. Echo Auto should eliminate this issue (assuming you’re not commuting in an extra-loud dragster). There are also safety implications. Voice commands mean that your eyes stay on the road, instead of glancing down at a screen. Price: $24.99
Cheap entry price8 microphonesKeeps your eyes on road
Limited availabilityRequires Smartphone with Alexa
Once hooked up, you can set multiple alarms and change the time with voice commands. We all have voice activated clocks in our pockets already, with most smartphones capable of these features. The bonus of the clock is that it be seen by everyone and it’s not hard to imagine using it to usher kids along with their breakfast or as a reminder to take the dog for a walk. The one aspect that could make or break it is the battery life of the clock. The smart functionality could be power drain, and nobody is going to want to replace their wall clock battery every other week. Price: $29.99
Updated Echo Dot and Echo Plus
The other improvement, and I hope you’re sitting down for this one, is an improved fabric design. Phew. Are they worth it? If you own an older Dot or Plus. there’s little reason to upgrade, unless you’re desperate for a little more volume. For those that have been toying with the idea of picking up a Dot or Plus for a while, now is the time to jump in. Price: The pricing remains the same for the two new Echo devices, with the Dot costing $49.99, and the Plus $149.99 Like the Echo speakers, it’s received a slight upgrade. I’s also had a volume boost, and is now capable of delivering stronger bass and stereo sound. It’s also larger – the first incarnation had a 7-inch screen, while the new model has a 10-inch display. Price: $229
Large, 10-inch screenImproved speakerCompatible with home hub devices
PriceyCan’t watch YouTube
Echo Input
What does it do? The Echo Input is a thin, disc-like device that connects to existing speakers, via a 3.5mm cable or Bluetooth. It then provides a full Alexa experience without the expense of an Echo. Is it worth it? Being able to turn any old speaker into an Echo-like device with the Echo Input is a welcome addition to the Echo lineup for those that want to upgrade their existing equipment. Price: $34.99
Echo Sub
Hook this up, and boost the bass and volume from your Dot, Plus or other Echo enabled gadget. Is it worth it? The Echo range isn’t known for its deep bass and volume. The Echo Sub should help you turn it up to 11 and get the music pumping with a bit more oomph than before. If you’ve already got a decent stereo system, then the Echo Input is the better (and cheaper) device for you, but otherwise this is a decent choice. Price: $129.99
Echo Link and Link Amp
What does it do? The Echo Link and Link Amp are designed to stream music through your home on existing audio equipment. Connect the Link to your stereo or other Echo devices and stream high fidelity music, controllable by voice or with the Alexa app. The Link Amp is the same device, but built into a 60w amplifier to boost your speakers. Is it worth it? For music buffs, there’s bound to be a degree of excitement about the Echo Link and Link Amp, especially as they’re priced competitively. Price: $199.99 for the Echo Link, $299.99 for the Amp
What does it do? It’s a plug. And it’s smart. Plug any device into this plug and you’ll be able to control it with Alexa voice commands and program accordingly. Plug a lamp in for example, and you’ll be able to turn it off and on and will using your voice, or program it to come on at certain times of the day. Is it worth it? While plug timers are nothing new, being able to control the Smart Plug via Alexa is a neat addition and a lot more versatile than traditional timers. Being able to add voice command functionality to ‘dumb’ products is a nice touch, and it’s easy to imagine plenty of scenarios where this could be useful. For example, if you’re on holiday you could set up lights to come on in the evening as a burglar deterrent, and control them remotely. Price: $24.99
