Amazon introduced a new version of its popular Echo Dot smart speaker at a product launch event on Sept. 28, marking the fifth generation of the Alexa-enabled device. The all-new Echo Dot will be available on Oct. 20 for $50, the same price as the previous model. A new Echo Dot with a clock will launch the same day for $60.
The new Echo Dot will have the same shape and size as the fourth-generation spherical model, but Amazon has promised significant improvements inside the speaker. The improvements include a built-in temperature sensor, doubled bass for better sound quality, and a better display for the Echo Dot with clock.
Amazon also introduced a new version of the Echo Studio, its $200 high-fidelity smart speaker. The Echo Studio will incorporate improved spatial audio and better sound quality.
Here’s a full rundown of the best features that will be available on the new Echo Dot.
1. A built-in Eero Wi-Fi extender
The new Echo Dot can function as an Eero mesh Wi-Fi extender. With this feature, your Echo Dot will add a 1,000 square feet of coverage to an existing Eero Wi-Fi network. Amazon says they will also add this feature to fourth-generation Echo Dot models in the coming months.
2. A temperature sensor with Alexa integration
The latest Echo Dot will make use of a new sensor that will monitor the temperature of your home and we can link it to Alexa tasks like controlling a smart fan or your air conditioning system.
3. Tap gesture commands for basic controls.
We have added an accelerometer to the Echo Dot to expand its range of tap-based gesture commands. Users will tap the device to turn on or off timers, music playback and voice calls.
4. Twice the bass and better sound quality
While the new Echo Dot is the same size as the previous model, Amazon says the new speaker’s improved driver will produce twice the bass and reduce distortion by up to 50 percent, resulting in an overall clearer sound.
5. A more detailed display for the Echo Dot with clock
They have upgraded the new Echo Dot with a clock with a high-density dot screen that will now be able to display more than just the time; it can show temperature, timers, track information while playing music, and calendar notifications.
