Since its launch in 2016, the Echo Dot has been Amazon’s most affordable smart speaker. That has now changed with the arrival of the Echo Pop, which will be available for just $39.99/£44.99 when it goes on sale May 31. It’s cheaper than the latest Echo Dot sold by Amazon.
Aside from the price, the most interesting thing about the Pop is its design. It basically looks like an Echo Dot that’s been cut in half, with the semi-spherical form factor allowing it to take up much less space.
Rather than producing 360° sound, the Echo Pop’s speaker takes up almost the entire front of the device. Amazon says you can expect “full sound,” but only recommends it for small spaces like a bedroom or dorm room.
The blue indicator (which appears when you say the wake word) sits just above this main speaker, although the full ring of light extends around it. It is available in four finishes, called Charcoal, Glacier White, Lavender Bloom and Midnight Teal.
You can also add an extra splash of color with an Echo Pop pouch, allowing you to customize the look of the device even further. Grey, Lilac, Purple and Glow in the Dark options all cost an additional £19.99 in the UK.
Amazon
The Echo Pop features the same Amazon AZ2 processor as the latest Echo Dot, but it can also be used as a Matter controller for smart home tech or a Wi-Fi extender for the Eero mesh network. However, you miss a temperature sensor and there’s no option for a clock display.
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Amazon’s smallest smart display has also been refreshed, in both regular ($89.99/£89.99) and kids ($99.99/£99.99) models.
The former includes new speakers that Amazon says both deliver clearer sound and double the bass of the last generation. You also get the AZ2 processor, along with upgraded microphones.
Amazon
It can be paired with a new adjustable stand, which also adds a USB-C port. This makes it an ideal bedside candidate, especially since the camera has a physical shutter.
There are three colors to choose from: black, white and blue. The Kids version is only available in a space-themed “Galaxy” finish, but includes a two-year warranty and a one-year Amazon Kids Plus subscription.
Elsewhere, a new version of the Echo Buds has also launched, with a radically new design and a much more affordable price tag – $49.99. There’s no longer active noise cancellation or even ear tips, with Amazon opting for a semi-open design instead.
