Amazon has introduced the next generation of Echo devices: Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, and Echo Show 11, designed specifically for Alexa+, the company’s next-generation AI assistant released earlier this year.
Custom Silicon Chips: AZ3 and AZ3 Pro
The new Echo devices feature two custom-designed silicon chips — AZ3 and AZ3 Pro — with an AI Accelerator capable of running edge AI models.
- Echo Dot Max: Uses AZ3 to improve conversation detection, filter background noise, and enhance wake-word recognition by over 50%, enabling more natural voice interactions.
- Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, Echo Show 11: Include AZ3 Pro, which extends AZ3’s audio capabilities and supports advanced language models and vision transformers.
Omnisense: Ambient AI Sensor Platform
Built on these chips, Omnisense uses multiple sensors including the 13MP camera (on Echo Show devices), audio, ultrasound, Wi-Fi radar, accelerometer, and Wi-Fi CSI. This allows Alexa+ to respond to contextual events, such as sending reminders when a specific person enters a room or alerts if the garage door is unlocked after a certain time.
Echo Dot Max
The Echo Dot Max delivers nearly three times the bass of the Echo Dot (5th Gen) and adapts sound to the room automatically. It features a two-way speaker system with a high-excursion woofer and custom tweeter integrated into the housing. The device also includes an upgraded microphone array for accurate voice detection.
Quick Specifications
Echo Studio
The redesigned Echo Studio is 40% smaller than its predecessor, with a high-excursion woofer and three full-range drivers for immersive sound. It supports spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. The spherical design uses 3D-knit fabric for acoustic transparency and incorporates a visual understanding model with the light ring.
Quick Specifications
Build Your Own Home Theater
Users can connect up to five Echo Studio or Echo Dot Max devices to compatible Fire TV sticks for surround sound. Alexa Home Theater automatically configures and tunes the system for optimal performance.
Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11
The new Echo Show 8 and 11 feature in-cell touch with negative liquid crystal displays for improved viewing angles and clarity. The 13MP camera recognizes users and provides personalized responses.
Key Features
- Visual conversational responses and media control center
- Built-in smart home hub with Zigbee, Matter, and Thread
- Color-coded family calendars and task management
- Alexa+ shopping widget for Amazon, Whole Foods, and Amazon Fresh
- Health and wellness integrations starting with Oura, with more partners (Withings, Wyze) planned
- Audio: front-facing stereo speakers, custom woofer, and full-range drivers firing forward for clear, room-filling sound
Quick Specifications
Alexa+ Services Expansion
Amazon will launch the Alexa+ Store, a central hub for exploring devices, subscriptions, and services. Partner brands include TaskRabbit, Fandango, Priceline, Uber, Lyft, Thumbtack, GrubHub, Yahoo Sports, and Alexa+ will also be integrated into products from Bose, Sonos, LG, Samsung, and BMW.
Pricing and Availability
All four new Echo devices are available for pre-order today in the U.S., with Alexa+ Early Access included with each purchase.
- Echo Dot Max: $99.99 (Rs. 8,865 approx.) – Available October 29
- Echo Studio: $219.99 (Rs. 19,510 approx.) – Available October 29
- Echo Show 8: $179.99 (Rs. 15,960 approx.) – Available November 12
- Echo Show 11: $219.99 (Rs. 19,510 approx.) – Available November 12
Available colors: Echo Dot Max (Glacier White, Amethyst, Graphite), Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, Echo Show 11 (Glacier White, Graphite)