Being a bit of an Alexa tragic, I thought I'd better get one of these because it's new and I should get one! But really doubted the need for it.
Well I have only had it for all of 30min, and can't believe I have lived my life without it :(
Ok, what does it do, well absolutely nothing that the Alexa app on your phone can do for free. All the same commands, and they are ported through the phone in any case, so nothing amazing. But lets look a little further:
PROS
- First thing, I received more than I expected. You receive the unit, a usb and 3.5mm audio cable, a dual port cigarette lighter adapter, and a vent mount with magnetic attachement to the Echo Auto
- The Echo Auto is small and the long blue LED light on the front looks great.
- Audio recognition appears fine, but I haven't used it on noisy roads yet. I also didn't use the vent mount, but stuck it under the dash near the gearshift. Perfect fit.
- The pairing is simpler then an echo as it only uses bluetooth, so it is very straightforward
- The Echo Auto has a speaker so you get messages while it powers up, and before a bluetooth connection, but nevertheless the startup time is maybe 10-15 sec
- The ability to now be able to talk to Alexa for everything without looking at a screen is very useful
- I my case (Holden Commodore VF) even if your stereo in on the radio of something other than bluetooth, the second you ask for something, it automatically switches to bluetooth to respond, and of course any music shows the artist/song title etc.
CONS
None yet, but being someone that hates seeing cables, I wish the cable ports were on the back of the unit rather than the side, because you can't avoid seeing at least 100mm of cable and connector. And also to have a magnetic stick on base would be nice when not using the vent mount.
Time will tell how well it works, but for now its a definite 5 stars
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Smart Speakers
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Alexa on the go
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With Screens
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Accessories
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Video Doorbells
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Security Cameras
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Accessories
Your voice is in the driver's seat
Just ask Alexa to play music, continue your Audible audiobook, check your calendar, find nearby businesses, or make calls between supported Echo devices and the Alexa app. With 8 microphones, Echo Auto even hears you over road noise. Echo Auto starts up in seconds, works through your car speakers, and uses your existing smartphone plan.
How does Echo Auto work?
Echo Auto connects to Alexa through your phone's Alexa app and plays through your car's speakers via auxiliary input or your smartphone's Bluetooth connection. Each time you start your car make sure your phone's volume is up and set your car stereo to the correct input. Then say “Alexa”—wait for the chime—and ask.
Make the most of your drive
Update to-do lists, set reminders, or check calendars while your eyes stay on the road. Just ask for directions and Alexa connects to supported apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze on your phone. Alexa can even help you make calls, Drop In on compatible Echo devices at home, or send an Announcement that you’re on your way.
Alexa has skills
With thousands of skills and counting, Alexa is always getting smarter. Skills are like apps and let you catch up on the latest news from local providers like ABC and Sky News Australia or international news broadcasters like the BBC. Listen to the latest Ted Talk or find your favourite podcast with the Pocket Cast skill. You can even play roadtrip games like Harry Potter Quiz or Aussie Trivia. Visit the Alexa Skill Store to learn more.
Echo Auto
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Size |
85 mm x 47 mm x 13.28 mm |
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Weight |
45 grams. Actual size and weight may vary by manufacturing process |
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Smartphone plan usage and compatibility |
Echo Auto uses your existing smartphone plan and the Alexa app for connectivity and other features. Mobile service provider charges may apply. Please consult your mobile service provider for information on any fees and limitations that apply to your plan. Echo Auto supports Android 6.0 and iOS 12 or greater. However, please note that the following smartphones are not compatible with Echo Auto. Certain skills and service are subject to change or withdrawal, may not be available in all areas and may require separate subscriptions or other fees. |
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Connectivity |
Echo Auto connects to most cars that support Bluetooth to play music or that have an auxiliary input. If using Bluetooth, some vehicles do not work well with Echo Auto. Learn more about cars that are not compatible with Echo Auto. If you can't connect devices to your car to play music via Bluetooth or auxiliary cable, then you may be able to connect Echo Auto with an additional accessory like an FM transmitter or cassette tape adaptor. |
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Bluetooth |
Hands-Free Profile (HFP) support for calling, Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming, Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) for voice control of media sessions, Serial Port Profile for Bluetooth connectivity to Android phones and iPod Accessory Protocol for Bluetooth connectivity to iPhones. |
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Audio |
Eight microphone array. Supports auxiliary audio output. |
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Processor |
Mediatek MT7697, Intel Dual DSP with Inference Engine |
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Accessibility Features |
Learn more about Alexa accessibility. |
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Warranty and Service |
Echo Auto is sold with a limited warranty of one year provided by the manufacturer. This Limited Warranty does not restrict or alter any non-excludable statutory consumer protections or rights you may have, including under the Australian Consumer Law. Use of Echo Auto is subject to the terms found here. |
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Included in the Box |
Echo Auto, In-Car Power Adaptor, Micro-USB cable (1m), 3.5mm auxiliary cable (1m), Echo Auto Air Vent Mount and Quick Start Guide. |
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Privacy Features |
Wake word technology, streaming indicator, mute button in the Alexa app, the ability to view and delete your voice recordings, and more. Visit the Alexa Privacy Hub to explore how Alexa and Echo devices are designed to protect your privacy. |
Customer Questions & Answers
