That standard device just got a big update and redesign, and here’s what you need to know.
The new smart speaker was released on 22 October, but unless you pre-ordered one you won’t be able to get one for at least a few weeks.
See how the entire Echo range compares.
Better speakers
As well as the design, which is replicated across the whole Echo speaker range, there are new speakers.
There’s nothing ‘wrong’ with the speakers in the existing Echo 3, in fact they’re the same as the ones in the Echo Plus (2nd Gen), but the Echo 4 gets a 3 inch woofer, and dual-firing tweeters, plus support for Dolby Digital stereo.
Like the Echo Studio, the Echo can sense the acoustics of your room and adjust the sound to optimise it.
More colour options
The new Echo comes in three colours: Charcoal (black), Glacier White and Twilight Blue.
There’s also a built-in Zigbee hub, as you got in previous models of the Echo Plus, for connecting compatible devices to your router which need this bridge.
Improving Alexa’s voice
Alexa is an impressive voice assistant and capable of all kinds of things, such as streaming music, controlling your smart home devices, and even telling the occasional joke. She does still lack a bit of character, though (unless you know how to get her funny responses).
For the most part, her voice is a little robotic, as are her responses to questions and other general interactions. In comparison to the likes of Google’s voice assistant, Alexa can feel somewhat cold and impersonal.
One of the big features that comes with the fourth-generation Echo is the new AZ1 neural processor that allows it to process your commands faster and respond faster.
Jim has been testing and reviewing products for over 20 years. His main beats include VPN services and antivirus. He also covers smart home tech, mesh Wi-Fi and electric bikes.
