Fire TV Cube Now Supports Zoom Calls - Streamlined Video Conferencing

Amazon Expands Fire TV Cube Capabilities with Zoom Integration

Late in the previous year, Amazon introduced two-way calling functionality for its Fire TV Cube devices. This initial feature enabled users to both initiate and receive calls from their television to any Alexa-enabled device featuring a screen.

Today, the company is broadening this functionality to incorporate support for two-way calling through the Zoom platform.

Zoom Meetings on Your Fire TV Cube

Beginning today, owners of the 2nd generation Fire TV Cube will be able to participate in Zoom work conferences or virtual social gatherings directly through their Fire TV Cube.

Required Hardware and Setup

To utilize this new capability, you will require an Amazon Fire TV Cube, a hands-free streaming device with integrated Alexa functionality, and a webcam compliant with USB Video Class (UVC) standards, supporting a minimum resolution of 720p at 30 frames per second.

For an enhanced visual experience, Amazon recommends a webcam with 1080p resolution and a field of view between 60 and 90 degrees, positioned six to ten feet from the television.

However, 4K webcams are not recommended for optimal performance.

Recommended Webcams

Amazon suggests webcams such as the Logitech C920, C922x, C310, or the Wansview 101JD as suitable options.

Connecting your webcam to the Fire TV Cube requires a Micro USB to USB adapter.

For the best results, Amazon advises mounting the webcam above the television screen.

Software Installation and Accessing Meetings

After connecting the hardware, you must download and install the Zoom application from the Fire TV Appstore.

When joining meetings, you can either participate as a guest or log in with an existing Zoom account, following the on-screen prompts.

Hands-Free Control with Alexa

Leveraging Alexa integration, you can initiate meetings hands-free using a voice command such as “Alexa, join my Zoom meeting.”

Alexa will then request the meeting ID and passcode.

Alternatively, you can manually enter this information using the remote control.

Calendar Integration for Meeting Reminders

An optional feature allows synchronization with your calendar, enabling Alexa to provide reminders for upcoming meetings found within your schedule.

Upon detection of a meeting, Alexa will suggest joining, requiring only a “yes” response to automatically dial in.

Context within the Video Conferencing Landscape

Amazon initially announced the addition of video calling support to its Fire TV platform last autumn – a notable update coinciding with the rise of remote work and education spurred by the pandemic.

However, Amazon is not alone in offering this functionality.

Google also introduced group video calls to its Hub Max devices last year, subsequently adding Zoom support.

Facebook Portal devices have long provided video calling capabilities and were also updated to support Zoom.

Amazon's Position and Considerations

In essence, Amazon is entering this market somewhat later than its competitors.

Its solution also necessitates a separate webcam purchase, unlike options such as Portal TV, which integrates a smart camera directly into the television.