Amazon Announcements: Smart Thermostats, Security Robots & More

Amazon's Latest Announcements: A Comprehensive Overview

A significant event hosted by Amazon took place earlier today, revealing a substantial number of new products and services. The announcements ranged from intelligent home climate control to advanced surveillance technology and even robotic assistants.

If you were unable to watch the event live or simply missed some details, a summary of the most important announcements is provided below.

Key Product Reveals

Amazon showcased several innovative devices designed to enhance everyday life. These included advancements in home automation, security, and personal robotics.

• Smart Thermostats: New thermostats were unveiled, promising improved energy efficiency and personalized comfort settings.
• Flying Security Cameras: A novel security solution was presented – autonomous, aerial cameras capable of patrolling indoor spaces.
• Robot Companions: Amazon introduced robot designs intended to serve as helpful companions and assistants within the home.

The range of these announcements demonstrates Amazon’s continued investment in cutting-edge technology.

Deeper Dive into the Innovations

The newly announced smart thermostats are designed to learn user preferences and optimize temperature control automatically. This leads to potential savings on energy bills.

The flying security cameras represent a unique approach to home surveillance. They offer a dynamic perspective and can navigate indoor environments independently.

Perhaps the most ambitious announcement was the introduction of robot companions. These robots are envisioned as proactive helpers, capable of performing various tasks and providing assistance to users.

Further details regarding pricing and availability for each of these products will be released by Amazon in the coming weeks.

Smart Thermostat

Amazon is developing a smart thermostat, collaborating with Resideo, a company formerly part of Honeywell, to bring this product to fruition.

Naturally, the device will be fully compatible with Alexa voice commands, enabling users to control their home climate with phrases such as “Alexa, deactivate the air conditioning.”

Priced at $60, which is approximately half the cost of the most affordable Nest thermostat, Amazon is clearly focused on offering a more budget-friendly option to consumers.

Key Features and Market Positioning

The primary goal appears to be disrupting the existing smart thermostat market through competitive pricing.

This new thermostat aims to provide essential smart home functionality at a significantly lower price point than established competitors.

Alexa integration is a central feature, allowing for convenient voice control of heating and cooling systems.

Partnership Details

• Amazon has chosen to partner with Resideo for the thermostat’s development and manufacturing.
• Resideo brings expertise in thermostat technology and manufacturing to the collaboration.
• This partnership allows Amazon to quickly enter the smart thermostat market.

The collaboration leverages Resideo’s established capabilities in the HVAC control space.

By working with Resideo, Amazon can accelerate the product’s time to market and ensure a high level of quality.

The $60 price point suggests a strategy of attracting a wider customer base.

This affordability could encourage greater adoption of smart thermostat technology in homes.

Echo Show 15

The Echo Show 15 is a new device from Amazon designed for wall mounting. Its aesthetic resembles a framed photograph, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into a room’s décor.

This smart display offers convenient, one-touch access to essential information. Users can quickly view reminders, calendars, and feeds from their security cameras.

Key Features and Design

The Echo Show 15 is versatile in its orientation. It can be utilized in either portrait or landscape mode, adapting to the user’s preference and the room’s layout.

With a price point of $250, the device aims to provide a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal for the smart home.

It’s intended to be more than just a smart display; it’s designed to be a central hub for family organization and information.

Custom Sound Detection

A new capability allows users to train Alexa to identify specific sounds and subsequently trigger actions upon detection. This feature expands Alexa’s awareness beyond voice commands.

As an illustration, Alexa can be taught to recognize the audible alert emitted by a refrigerator door left ajar, prompting a notification to be sent to the user.

How it Works

The system learns to differentiate sounds through user-provided examples. Alexa analyzes the acoustic characteristics of the sound to create a unique profile.

Once the sound profile is established, Alexa will actively listen for it in the environment. When the sound is detected, the pre-defined action is automatically executed.

Potential Applications

• Home Safety: Identify the sound of a smoke detector or breaking glass.
• Appliance Monitoring: Be alerted to sounds indicating appliance malfunctions, like a washing machine completing a cycle.
• Pet Monitoring: Recognize sounds associated with pet activity, such as barking or meowing.

Custom Sound Detection offers a proactive approach to home automation, extending Alexa’s functionality beyond simple voice control.

This feature represents a significant step towards a more responsive and intelligent smart home experience.

Hey Disney

Amazon’s voice assistant technology is being implemented in “tens of thousands” of hotel rooms at the Walt Disney World Resort. This integration will enable guests to utilize voice commands, initiating requests by saying “Hey Disney.”

Guests will be able to inquire about park opening times, shuttle schedules, and even request amenities such as towels. The system aims to enhance convenience during their stay.

Functionality and Privacy Considerations

The introduction of voice assistants in hotel rooms raises considerations regarding privacy. The presence of microphones within guest rooms is a key aspect of this new service.

This feature provides a hands-free method for accessing information and services, potentially improving the overall guest experience at the resort.

• Guests can ask about park hours.
• Shuttle arrival times can be readily obtained.
• Requests for items like towels can be made via voice command.

Hey Disney is designed to streamline access to essential information and services for visitors to Walt Disney World.

Amazon Glow

Responding to the increased reliance on video communication with family during recent times, Amazon has developed a novel device aimed at enhancing interactions between children and their relatives.

This innovative product, termed Amazon Glow, functions as both an interactive tablet and a projector. It’s designed to connect kids and families in a more engaging way.

Key Features and Functionality

The device features an 8-inch screen that facilitates video calls. Simultaneously, a built-in projector casts interactive games onto a touch-sensitive surface.

Remote family members can actively participate in these games alongside the child during the video call, fostering a shared experience.

Interaction with the projected games is managed through the tablet interface by the remote participant.

Content Partnerships

Amazon is collaborating with prominent entertainment companies to develop content for the Glow.

• Disney is contributing to the game library.
• Mattel is also a development partner.
• Nickelodeon is providing content as well.

Pricing and Availability

Initially, Amazon Glow will be available at an “early access” price of $250.

The price is projected to increase to $299 following the initial launch period.

This device aims to bridge the distance between families and provide a unique, interactive experience for children.

Halo View

Amazon is expanding its presence in the fitness and health technology sector. The company has introduced a new wearable device, the Halo View, which is a waterproof wristband priced at $80.

This new device is designed to compete directly with popular fitness trackers like Fitbit, offering a similar form factor and functionality.

New Features and Services

Alongside the Halo View, Amazon is launching two new services. These are Halo Fitness and Halo Nutrition, designed to provide comprehensive health and wellness support.

• Halo Fitness: This service provides access to a library of hundreds of streaming workout videos.
• Halo Nutrition: This service aims to simplify meal planning and grocery shopping, assisting users in making healthier food choices.

The Halo View features a built-in display, allowing users to view their fitness data and interact with the new services directly on their wrist.

Amazon’s latest offerings represent a continued investment in the health and wellness space, providing users with tools to monitor their activity, improve their fitness, and optimize their nutrition.

The integration of hardware and software aims to create a holistic health ecosystem for Amazon customers.

Ring's Autonomous Home Security Device

Last year, Ring unveiled a novel concept: a drone designed for home security surveillance. This device is capable of autonomous flight to capture video footage around a property while the owner is absent.

Initially, a firm release date wasn't provided by the company. This delay likely allowed for refinement and anticipation, potentially referencing the popular video game series, Half-Life.

Availability and Access

Now, Ring has announced that the drone is available for purchase, but access is currently restricted. The rollout will be managed through an invite-only system.

Potential customers will need to request an invitation to be among the first to acquire and deploy this innovative security solution.

The system is designed to provide a proactive security layer, offering a dynamic perspective beyond traditional stationary cameras.

Key Features and Functionality

• Autonomous Flight: The drone operates independently, navigating a pre-defined area.
• Remote Monitoring: Users can view live footage from the drone via a mobile application.
• Security Surveillance: The primary function is to enhance home security through aerial monitoring.

This new offering represents a significant step forward in home security technology, moving beyond fixed camera positions to provide a more comprehensive and adaptable surveillance system.

Ring Virtual Security Guard

Ring is introducing a new paid monitoring service designed for its range of doorbells and outdoor security cameras.

This service, utilizing “Virtual Security Guard agents,” allows Ring to access live feeds from designated cameras upon alert activation.

How the Service Functions

Once access is granted, these agents are empowered to take several actions.

• They can view the live video stream.
• Agents are able to establish two-way communication with individuals detected on camera.
• The system allows for the activation of the camera’s built-in siren.
• In critical situations, agents can directly contact emergency services.

Key Features and Capabilities

The Ring Virtual Security Guard service represents a significant expansion of the company’s security offerings.

By providing a human element to alert response, Ring aims to offer a more comprehensive security solution than automated systems alone.

This proactive monitoring approach distinguishes it from simply recording events for later review.

The service focuses on real-time intervention and assistance, potentially deterring incidents and ensuring swift responses when necessary.

Ring Jobsite Security

Ring is developing a dedicated hardware package specifically designed for construction sites and contractors.

This system is intended to provide monitoring capabilities, such as verifying the open or closed status of gates.

The kit is packaged in a durable, protective hard case, facilitating easy transport between different job locations.

Notably, the entire system features an orange color scheme, aligning with the typical aesthetic of construction environments.

Key Features

• Gate Monitoring: Enables remote observation of gate positions.
• Portability: The hard case allows for convenient movement between sites.
• Durability: Designed to withstand the rigors of a construction environment.
• Visual Identification: The orange color provides quick recognition on a jobsite.

The purpose-built system aims to enhance security and oversight on construction projects.

It offers a practical solution for contractors seeking to remotely manage and safeguard their worksites.

Updates from Blink

In 2017, Amazon completed the acquisition of Blink. Subsequently, in 2018, another security camera manufacturer, Ring, was also brought under the Amazon umbrella.

Despite these acquisitions, Amazon has chosen to maintain both brands as separate entities. Blink continues to operate as the more budget-friendly option within the Amazon security ecosystem.

New Product Announcements

This morning, Blink unveiled several new products designed to expand its offerings. These include a cost-effective smart doorbell, a versatile floodlight mount, and a convenient solar panel mount.

• Smart Doorbell: Priced at $50, this doorbell features 1080p video resolution and boasts an impressive two-year battery life.
• Floodlight Mount: Available for $40, this mount is compatible with existing Blink outdoor cameras, adding enhanced illumination capabilities.
• Solar Panel Mount: Offered at $50, this mount provides a sustainable power source for Blink outdoor cameras.

The newly announced products aim to provide accessible and reliable home security solutions. They build upon Blink’s existing range of affordable security cameras.

Note: Initial pricing information contained inaccuracies, which have now been corrected.

Astro

Amazon has developed a mobile robot designed for in-home use, resembling a compact, Alexa-integrated version of Wall-E. Initial availability will be offered to "Day One" customers at a price of $999, with the cost subsequently rising to $1,449.

This innovative device boasts a range of functionalities. These include home mapping and enhanced security features. A comprehensive analysis of Astro’s capabilities can be found in Brian Heater’s detailed report.

Key Features

• Home Mapping: Astro is capable of creating a detailed map of your living space.
• Security Capabilities: The robot offers features designed to enhance home security.
• Alexa Integration: Astro functions with voice commands through Alexa.

The robot’s introduction marks a significant step in Amazon’s exploration of robotics for consumer applications. Its phased rollout allows for gathering user feedback and refining the technology.

Potential buyers interested in early access should explore the "Day One" program. This program provides an opportunity to acquire the device at the introductory price point.