First released in 2015 in the US, this $179 always-listening speaker takes the shape of a 9.25-inch-tall cylinder. It features a 7-piece mic array, responds to the wake word "Alexa", and is capable of voice interaction. It can even control compatible Internet of Things devices, such as smart thermostats, and music playback from mobile devices over Bluetooth. The Alexa assistant will also help you make to-do lists, set alarms, play songs, read PDFs, provide weather forecasts, and more. It'll play trivia and games with you, too, including Jeopardy. Echo requires a Wi-Fi connection in order for Alexa to work, and it must remain plugged in for power.
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