Amazon Echo Dot: Smaller Design, Lesser Price, Big Features

Amazon follows up their Amazon Echo with a smaller yet full-featured Amazon Echo Dot.  The Dot bears a smaller footprint due to the absence a large speaker system. The device also abandons the rotating volume control system of its first generation sibling, but opts for regular push buttons to adjust its volume output.

Amazon Echo Dot functions

The device works secondarily as a wireless speaker, but primarily houses a digital personal assistant called Alexa.  It uses multi-directional microphones to listen to users commands and perform basic functions like playing music or answering questions.  Amazon has released updates and apps called Skills which further improve its capabilities.  Third-party developers can also develop apps for the device, which further expands its functions.  The Dot can also interact with Google Calendar to set your appointments or reminders. The Guardian also reports that Alexa can also control other smart connected gadgets like lights, appliances, air conditioners and others through Samsung's SmartThings hub or other smart home controllers.

Amazon Echo Dot Design

The Dot follows the cylindrical design of the original Echo and keeps the same status light ring on the top. The light ring indicates if the device is listening to a command or executing a task  It uses the classic volume push buttons as opposed to the former's rotating controls.  It also loses the massive speaker of the original in favor of a more compact one. However, its 3.5mm jack permits users to connect their device to an external speaker.  Its Bluetooth connectivity lets it wirelessly output audio through any compatible Bluetooth speakers within its range. It comes in black or white colors only.

Amazon Echo Dot specifications

The Amazon Echo Dot measures 3.3 inches in diameter and stands 1.3 inches high. The top of the unit features four push buttons to control the microphone, volume up, volume down and an action button. Its WiFi connectivity supports 802.11 a/b/g/n on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Bluetooth with A2DP support allows the Dot to connect with most smartphones and Bluetooth speakers. It is covered by a 1-year warranty and costs $49.99