NEWS

Keep abreast of our dynamic information.

Company News

Trade News

Amazon plans to release a new Alexa device that can make calls and act as a walkie-talkie

2017-03-20

According to foreign media reports, multiple sources said that Amazon plans to launch one or more Alexa voice assistant-enabled devices this year, which will allow people to use the voice assistant to make calls. In addition, these devices can also be used as an intercom system, allowing users to communicate with other Alexa device users. The new hardware was tested internally by Amazon last month. Amazon is expected to announce the products in a few months, the sources said. An Amazon spokesman declined to comment.

While the Echo and Echo Dot have become Amazon's best-selling products over the past year, Amazon needs to give consumers more reasons to use them every day. While the Alexa music assistant already has more than 7,000 "skills" (or voice apps) like playing music, users still have a lot of trouble gaining traction.

Amazon previously invested in a startup called Nucleus, which has launched a smart home walkie-talkie system. Separately, the source also said that Amazon is already discussing whether to equip these Alexa devices with cameras.

The Wall Street Journal reported earlier that Amazon and Google are considering adding the ability to dial and receive voice calls to their voice assistants.

■

HYND brand concept

—

2021-09-15