Amazon Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 launch with better displays and new Amazon A3Z Pro processor
Amazon's latest Echo Show series is available in two sizes: the Echo Show 8 features an improved 8-inch IPS panel with 720p resolution, while the Echo Show 11 features an 11-inch touchscreen with 1,080p resolution. Narrower bezels and a more discreetly integrated 13 MP camera give the new models a significantly more modern look.
The display is permanently attached to the speaker unit behind it, and the angle cannot be adjusted unless customers purchase an optional magnetic stand. The focus of the new models is Amazon's improved Alexa AI voice assistant, which, combined with the proprietary Amazon A3Z Pro processor, is said to be more reliable and responsive than ever. However, Alexa Plus is currently only available in the US, so customers in Europe will have to continue to make do with the original Alexa.
The A3Z Pro is also designed to enable smart displays to detect the user's presence by processing data from cameras, microphones and Wi-Fi signals. A redesigned user interface is intended to make it easier to control multiple smart home devices simultaneously. Thanks to the integration of Matter, Thread and Zigbee, the new Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11 can also be used as smart home hubs.
Prices and availability
The new Echo Show models will begin shipping on November 12. Pre-orders are expected to open soon. The Echo Show 8 will cost $179.99, while the Echo Show 11 will be available for $219.99.
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