Amazon Echo Frames are now available for purchase and are getting audio quality improvements, long battery life, new colours and more features. Amazon also announced that Alexa-equipped Echo Frames are getting an update and are no more in beta. They were introduced in 2019 as a Day 1 Edition product and were available only through invitation. There is also support for calendars and group messaging on second-generation Echo Frames. They are available now for pre-order and will start shipping on 10th December. Also, a smart ring called Echo Loop with Alexa support will be discontinued.
The updated Echo Frames have been priced at $249.99, which is roughly around Rs.18,500 and are up for sale at US, although their international availability is not clear till now. They are now available in three colour options – Modern Tortoise, Horizon Blue and Classic Black.
Amazon has also said that the battery life of Echo Frames have improved and is now up to 40% longer. According to the listing on Amazon, Echo Frames provide two hours of talk time and Alexa interactions or non-stop media playback of four hours on full charge. A new feature also turns off the frames when they are placed upside down for three seconds that will also help further in increasing battery life.
The updated Echo Frames will also provide richer, fuller sound with an improved open-ear technology, as stated by Amazon. The volume can now be set to automatically adjust at the start of the playback based on user’s selected listening profile and environment noise level.
With the help of Echo Frames, users can make calls, set reminders, listen to podcasts, add things to their to-do list, get the news or control the smart home devices while leaving the ears uncovered. The Echo Frames direct sound to user’s ears and minimizing what others can hear. The frames support access to Google Assistant and Siri from compatible devices.
Normally, the Echo Frames come with non-corrective lenses and are compatible with most prescription lenses. Amazon also has a guide to help with it.
Customers who had the Day 1 Edition Echo Frames will be able to update their frames for $70 which is roughly around Rs.5,200. The Echo Loop is being discontinued and Amazon said that customers using the product would continue to receive updates and support.