The new Echo Spot smart speaker and alarm clock from Amazon is an updated version of its predecessor, now designed to look like the Echo Pop for improved sound quality. It still supports Alexa voice commands for various tasks like setting alarms and checking the weather, but has removed the camera feature that many found intrusive, featuring a dedicated button to turn off the microphone for added privacy. Despite its handiness, it’s worth noting that without a battery backup, the device becomes useless in the event of a power outage.
While deals on products that have not been reviewed by The Verge are typically not covered, the early impressions of the Echo Spot are mostly positive from resident smart home reviewer Jennifer Pattison Tuohy. Testing is underway for a full review, with initial thoughts leaning towards the new Spot being a good value at $45 but potentially less so at its regular price of $80. For Prime subscribers willing to be early adopters, this deal may be worth considering until the full assessment is complete.
