Amazon has started improving its Echo speakersas agreed earlier this year. The objective here is to make the hardware compatible with Matter, the interoperability standard between connected objects which will soon allow iPhones to communicate natively with speakers (on paper). For the moment, however, only mobiles running underAndroidwere entitled to change.
The developer indicates, however, that a second phase of updates is planned for shortly. It is impossible to know the exact dates at the moment, but we will know more during theCES. The Consumer Electronics Show, the largest tech show in the world, takes place in Las Vegas between January 5 and 8.
Very encouraging plans for HomeKit
Amazon has already specified that it will be compatible with theprotocole Threadand with iOS for Echo speakers. This perhaps means that, if Apple also gets up to speed, we will very soon be able to control the sound from the Home app. Now installed automatically on Mac, iPhone and iPad, it aims to become the home automation hub of your home by centralizing all controls. The interface, responsive and refined, has already been praised by critics since its debut.
But if you receive an Amazon Echo under the tree between now and then, don't panic. The different products in the range indeed welcome connectivityBluetoothand Wi-Fi to play your titles without favorites. In addition, it is always possible to trigger reading via an oral command by calling Alexa directly.
Nearly twenty Amazon Echo eligible
The update to Matter and Thread will affect all Echo Dots since the third generation and the last two classic Amazon Echo models. With this, these are theEcho Show 8etEcho Show 5first and second generation which will be compatible. The manufacturer has communicatedthe complete list of targeted devicesseveral weeks ago already.
Among these, we also find theEcho Studio. A direct competitor to the excellent original HomePod, this voice assistant integrates Dolby Atmos technology as well as sound processing similar to theAudio spatialat Apple. But the price is much more interesting, since it is limited here to around 200 euros. An ideal accessory for listening to an album by your favorite singer on the way home with Apple Music, Spotify or Deezer.
The Echo studio plugs into the mains (for power) and has the added bonus of a 3.5mm jack input for purists.
