The Amazon Echo Show 15 available for preorder: What to know
Updates to this model include the ability to mount the Echo Show on a wall and a new Visual ID recognition feature.
The Echo Show 15 is built with Amazon’s AZ2 Neural Edge processor, which allows it to better recognize your voice and offers a new visual ID feature, according to the company. Once you enroll in Visual ID, the camera scans your face and learns to recognize it. Then, if you walk in front of the Echo Show, it recognizes you and updates its screen to show your personal reminders, calendar events, notes and more. Visual ID also comes with a setting for kids — if you enroll a child in Visual ID, the device shows age-appropriate content only, according to Amazon.
To address potential privacy concerns, Amazon said enrolling in Visual ID is optional, and you can delete profiles at any time. You can also turn the microphone and camera on and off using a button on the side of the device, as well as view and delete voice recordings. The device’s camera has a built-in shutter you can use to cover the lens, too.
Additionally, Amazon said you can control compatible devices like security cameras, doorbells, lights and thermostats. You can purchase it with a tilt stand to prop it up on a table or countertop, and a wall mount comes with the device.
Smart home devices similar to the Echo Show were released this year, including two new Facebook Portal models: the Portal Plus and Portal Go. The Google Nest Hub Max also offers comparable features. During current Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, you’ll be able to find discounts on these types of items across retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target and more.
Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.
