Description of the Device
Alexa can link to almost any device that uses Wifi, plus many more devices around the home. Echo is completely hands free, and all controlled by voice interaction. It can control lights, TVs, and other appliances, read your favorite books, play music, tell you the forecast, order pizza and now even make phone calls (peer to peer) completely hands free. Echo will ship the Echo Connect in Dec 2017 that will turn any Echo into a hands free speakerphone for making or receiving calls. For individuals with paralysis, hemiparesis, neurological disorders, or other conditions who can still use their voice, Alexa provides a simple and easy way to provide independence through simple commands.
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Temporary or Permanent
This device can be as permanent or temporary as you choose. It is easy to link or set up to any place that has electric power sources and Wifi. It is portable, but can also function as a permanent addition to your home environment. If Echo is used for multiple functions, several Echo dot systems can be used to control different rooms in the house.
Echo can do many things on it’s own, but other functions like controlling a home may require additional equipment like
Cost
An Amazon Echo tower costs approximately $180 on Amazon.com, but the smaller Echo dot ranges from $40-$50.
The only major difference between the two models is the power of the speaker, the tower has a much better speaker for listening to music, podcasts, or other audio, but the Dot is also easily paired to a bluetooth speaker and has almost identical functions to that of the tower.
Support Needs
The echo updates automatically, so maintenance is relatively low after setup. Minor troubleshooting may be required after power or internet loss. Setting up the Echo is a very simple process but may require assistance initially to download the correct apps or link the device to lamps, the tv, wifi, or other appliances.