The many sides of Amazon Echo

Hands-free
Amazon Echo is a hands-free speaker you control with your voice. Since the kitchen is the family hub, Echo is sensible to put there.
Voice recognition
Tucked under Echo's light ring is an array of seven microphones that feature beam-forming technology and enhanced noise cancellation. With far-field voice recognition, Echo can hear you ask a question from any direction--even while playing music.
Training
The more you use Echo, the more it adapts to your speech patterns, vocabulary, and personal preferences.
Skills
Skills add more capabilities to Echo: ordering a pizza, requesting a ride, opening your garage, and more.
Bedside companion
Get warm and cozy under the covers and use Echo's feature to work with smart appliances to turn off the lights.
Alexa App
The Alexa App -- available on Fire OS, Android, iOS, and desktop browsers -- enables you to setup and manage your Echo.
Technical details
The Echo measures 9.25" x 3.27" x 3.27" and weighs 26.9 oz.