Amazon’s new Echo Frames offer improved battery life and audio quality.
Amazon's new Echo Frames offer improved battery life and audio quality.
Amazon’s Echo Frames Get a Major Upgrade
Amazon’s smart glasses, the Echo Frames, received a significant update during the company’s annual fall event this week. The latest version of the Echo Frames introduces exciting features such as a longer battery life, a redesigned audio experience, and a variety of new colors and styles.
One of the most notable improvements in the new Echo Frames is the battery life. Users can now enjoy up to six hours of media playback on a single charge, making it ideal for extended use throughout the day. Additionally, Amazon has expanded the style options to include seven new frames, ranging from glasses to sunglasses. Notably, eyewear maker Carrera has partnered with Amazon to create two new stylish looks called “Carrera Smart Glasses.” Furthermore, users have the option to choose from sunglasses, prescription lenses, or blue-light lenses, catering to different needs and preferences. To enhance durability, all versions of the Echo Frames are IPX4 water resistant and scratch resistant.
In terms of design, Amazon has made substantial changes to make the Echo Frames sleeker and more comfortable. By moving most of the internal wiring from the front of the glasses to the temples, the frames are now 15 percent slimmer, giving them a more natural and familiar appearance. This transformation ensures that the Echo Frames do not stand out like traditional technology-infused wearables, but instead blend in seamlessly with everyday eyewear.
One of the key aspects of the Echo Frames is the audio experience. Amazon has prioritized improving the sound quality of the new frames, resulting in more balanced sound, better audio clarity, and reduced distortion. This upgrade is thanks to a new speaker driver and an “open-ear audio architecture.” Additionally, the glasses now feature enhanced onboard speech processing, allowing for reliable detection of the wake word even in challenging conditions such as windy environments or noisy rooms.
The software updates for the Echo Frames are equally impressive. The new frames support pairing with up to two devices, enabling wearers to effortlessly switch between different audio sources, such as a phone and a laptop. Amazon has also introduced a notification-filtering capability called VIP Filter, which ensures that only the most important alerts reach the user. Another handy feature is the ability to locate misplaced glasses easily. Users can now ask Alexa to “find my smart glasses,” making the search process a breeze.
Now, let’s talk about the pricing. The new Echo Frames start at $270, providing excellent value for the features and improvements they offer. However, if you’re looking for a more premium option, the Carrera Smart Glasses will be available for $390. Although the company did not specify a release date, interested consumers can sign up for notifications about pre-orders to ensure they get their hands on a pair as soon as they become available.
Overall, Amazon’s latest update to the Echo Frames showcases their commitment to enhancing user experience and style. With improved battery life, a refined audio experience, and sleeker design, these smart glasses are set to make a significant impact in the market. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply someone looking for fashionable yet functional eyewear, the new Echo Frames are certainly worth considering.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Amazon’s 2023 Devices event.
