Amazon’s Echo series has brought the voice of Alexa into your home, but what about to your face? Amazon announced its first pair of smartglasses, the Echo Frames. Fully equipped with the popular voice assistant, Echo Frames allow users to take Alex on-the-go.
Echo Frames will have four speakers built into each temple so wearers can talk to Alexa without those nearby hearing. Functions typical to Alexa — like listening to notifications, playing music, making phone calls, and turning connected smart lights on and off — will be available with the frames.
The smartglasses also support Google Assistant, increasing the number of tasks wearers can complete, from getting directions to adjusting schedules.
Battery life depends on how the wearer uses their Echo Frames. In the product description, Amazon wrote, “Actual battery life will vary depending on device settings, features utilized, environment and other factors.”
A single charge of about 75 minutes will give a day of limited usage at 60% volume. The frames shouldn’t be expected to replace your go-to tech device, like a phone or tablet.
Users can choose to customize the notifications they get through Echo Frames, either by contacts or apps. Use is discreet, with Alexa being prompted by audio commands. Less discreet options, such as tapping for commands are available, as well.
For those with busy schedules, like most parents, a pair of smartglasses could be convenient for day-to-day use. They allow for setting task reminders, like to pick carrots up for dinner, or alert your partner when you’ll likely arrive home — all hands-free. You can also read notifications as they come in, rather than stopping to look around for your phone to read out a message.
The frames won’t be available to everyone. They aren’t compatible with iOS and can only be used with Android smartphones. Echo Frames also don’t come with a prescription, though Amazon does say customers can visit their optometrist to get their prescription added.
During the invitation-only buying period, Echo Frames will be priced at $179.99. When officially launched, the smart frames will retail for $249.99.
