Amazon echo is a smart speaker. This special purpose device is made by Amazon. It has seven microphones and is built with beamforming technology, which allows the Amazon echo to hear from anywhere in your room, even when music is playing.
Alexa is a virtual assistant developed by Amazon, available in multiple languages. This device was launched in 2014 within the Echo Virtual speaker line. A design developed from a prototype made in Poland under the name Ivona.
Its operation is similar to other virtual assistants such as Google Assistant, Siri or Cortana, to cite some of the best-known examples. It is activated with a voice command by simply saying its name: “Alexa.” With this, the device lights up, a signal that tells us that it is already listening to us, ready to give us an answer.
General description of the device
Brand – Amazon
Model – Echo
Type – Automation Hub Controller
Color is black/White
App-Enabled Yes
Protocol – Wi-Fi
What can Alexa do?
- Automaticity of residence
Alexa can communicate with devices from different manufacturers to develop different home automation functions. For example, in September 2018, Amazon announced a microwave oven that can be paired and controlled with an Echo device. There’s also a cool device called the Ring Doorbell Pro that can greet visitors we receive at the door and give delivery men instructions on where to deliver packages.
- Purchases and orders
Alexa integration with Amazon allows us to make all kinds of purchases with a simple voice command. Similarly, the device keeps us informed about the shipment status (a green light tells us that the package we expect will arrive today).
If it’s about ordering food delivery, Domino’s Pizza or Burger King have some really interesting skills. They allow us to order different menus using our voice.
- Music
Alexa supports many free streaming services based on Amazon device subscriptions: Prime Music, Amazon Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, Apple Music, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Audible, Pandora and Spotify Premium, etc.
