Amazon has started to improve its Echo speakers as 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 the speakers (on paper). For the moment, however, only mobiles running under Android were entitled to change.
However, the developer indicates that a second phase of updates is planned for a short time. Impossible to know the exact dates for the moment, but we will know more when CES. 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 provides compatibility with the protocole Thread and with iOS for Echo speakers. This may therefore mean that, if Apple also gets up to speed, very soon we will be able to control the sound from the Home app. Now automatically installed on Mac, iPhone and iPad, it aims to become the home automation hub of your home by centralizing all the controls. The interface, responsive and refined, has already been praised by critics since its debut.
But if you get an Amazon Echo under the tree by then, don’t panic. The various products in the range accommodate connectivity Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to play your titles without favorites. In addition, it is always possible to trigger playback via an oral command by calling Alexa directly.
Nearly twenty Amazon Echo eligible
The update to Matter and Thread will affect all Echo Dot since the third generation and the last two classic Amazon Echo models. With this are the Echo Show 8 et Echo Show 5 first and second generation that will be compatible. The manufacturer has communicated the full list of targeted devices several weeks ago.
Among these are also theEcho Studio. Direct competitor of the excellent original HomePod, this voice assistant integrates Dolby Atmos technology as well as sound processing similar to theAudio spatial at Apple. But the price is much more interesting, since 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 3.5 mm jack input for purists.