The brand new Echo Show 8 from Amazon is available (since the end of October in France) and I was able to test it for several days. The improvements to the third-generation model are evident.
In addition to a sleeker design with edge-to-edge glass, a central camera and a smaller speaker, the Echo Show 8 2023 features spatial audio, a faster processor than previous generations and an experience ” improved connected home.
The changes are obvious right out of the box
Amazon’s changes are evident right out of the box. The typical plastic packaging is conspicuous by its absence, as the device is packaged primarily in recyclable materials.
Amazon says 99% of the device’s packaging is made from wood fiber materials from “responsibly managed forests or recycled sources.”
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Once unboxed, the Echo Show 8 stands out from previous generations in its design, particularly the speaker on the back. Older models had a cone-shaped speaker on the back that doubled as a stand. The speaker of the latest Echo Show 8 also supports the screen, but Amazon has chosen another design.
The device camera in the middle of the screen instead of on the right
The speaker on the back, let’s face it, looks a bit like an ass sticking out of the back of the screen, especially when viewed from a certain angle. This is not a negative point, but simply a perception I had of the device.
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Another different design choice, Amazon finally placed the device’s camera in the middle of the screen instead of leaving it on the right, as was the case for the previous Echo Show.
The improved 13MP camera is intended to be used for video calls, making center placement all the more beneficial to avoid people appearing to look to one side during a video call.
When one of the registered members approaches the Echo Show 8, it displays personalized content
The new camera location could also better support Visual ID (visual identification technology), which allows the Echo Show 8 to detect when a person approaches the device.
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Visual ID is also available on the second generation Echo Show 10, Echo Show 15 and Echo Show 8 models. This feature allows each member of a household to benefit from a personalized experience with the screen.
To do this, each member of the household who wants to use visual identification must register separately on each device, because Amazon explains that this visual data is stored locally on the device.
When one of the registered members approaches the Echo Show 8, it displays personalized content, such as sticky notes, calendars and targeted news.
The Echo Show 8 (2023) switches from sleep mode to a more interactive screen when a registered user is detected. Maria Diaz/ZDNET
Adaptive content will also be available on the second-generation Echo Show 8
But visual identification differs from Adaptive Content, a brand new feature that Amazon is launching with this third-generation device. Adaptive Content will make it easier for consumers to view screen content based on viewing distance: the screen switches to a detailed view as the person approaches the Echo Show.
Adaptive content will also be available on the second-generation Echo Show 8 and other Echo Show devices starting in early 2024.
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The latest Echo Show 8 is also a smart speaker, featuring a spatial audio system.
The device is equipped with a pair of 2-inch neodymium drivers for a vibrant directional feel and a surprisingly rich sound experience despite the speaker’s size, especially compared to the first generation model and the Echo Show 5 released in 2023.
ZDNET’s buying advice for the Amazon Echo Show 8
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The Echo Show 8 version 2023 is a compelling connected speaker for Alexa fans and smart home enthusiasts, but its price of €170, higher than that of previous generations, could be a deterrent.
The second generation Echo Show 8 was priced at €130, but it is discounted, most recently at just €85.
This latest connected speaker is, however, significantly faster than previous models, both in terms of the touch response of the screen and the time it takes for Alexa to respond to requests and process them.
Maria Diaz/ZDNET
For those interested in the smart home, know that the Echo Show 8 can process common requests locally with 40% faster response times, for example when you ask Alexa to turn on a light or a electrical outlet.
A home automation hub like the Echo Show 10
The new Echo Show 8 is not only a screen with integrated Alexa, but also a home automation hub like the more high-end Echo Show 10 model.
With support for Zigbee, Thread and Matter, the Echo Show 8 can be both a central point for setting up and controlling compatible connected devices and an assistant.
Source: “ZDNet.com”