Amazon today announced the Echo Flex, a plug-in smart speaker, which can be plugged directly into a standard electrical outlet to access Alexa and other Alexa-compatible smart devices. The Echo Flex also has a built-in USB-A port allowing you to easily charge your phone (7.5W) or other devices, all while using only one outlet.
You can use the Echo Flex to simply ask Alexa to control compatible smart home devices, do things like switch on the lights as you enter your home or turn off the AC as you leave the room, all without lifting a finger. The Echo Flex is compatible with smart lights and plugs from brands including Philips, SYSKA LED, Oakter, TP-Link and more.
With the Echo Flex, you can also make announcements on other Echo devices in your home, add items to the shopping list or check the latest score of your favourite sports team. The responses will come through the speaker on the device that’s been optimised for Alexa’s voice. And similar to other Echo devices, you can connect the Echo Flex to speakers via Bluetooth or a 3.5 mm audio cable.
According to Amazon, the Echo Flex is built with multiple layers of privacy controls, including a microphone off button that electronically disconnects the microphone. Additionally, you can also view, hear, and delete your voice recordings at Alexa Privacy Settings or in the Alexa app at any time. To delete by voice, just say ‘Alexa, delete what I just said’ or ‘Alexa, delete everything I said today.’
Consumers can pre-order the Echo Flex starting today (November 20) and the shipping will start next month. The Echo Flex is priced at Rs 2,999. And as a limited-period offer, customers can get a Wipro 9W Smart LED bulb worth Rs 2,099 at no additional cost on the purchase of every Echo Flex on Amazon.in.
The new Echo Flex joins the Echo Dot, Echo, Echo Plus, Echo Show, Echo Show 5, Echo Studio, and companion Echo devices (Echo Sub, Echo Link and Echo Link Amp).
