The Amazon Echo continues to dominate the market with its big features and cheap price making it a must-have device.
This intelligent gadget can perform all manner of tasks via simple voice commands with users able to switch on the lights, play music and get news and weather updates simply by speaking to it.
Another reason this speaker continues to impress are the regular updates that Amazon pushes out to its Echos with new features arriving throughout the year.
In a recent change the online retailer announced it was launching Alexa Skill Blueprints which allows owners to create their own Echo commands and ways of interacting with Alexa without needing to learn code.
Now there’s another update coming to Echo devices which allows these intelligent devices to instantly know who’s talking to them.
Until now, the speaker would respond to everyone in the same way but this latest update enables the built-in Alexa assistant to recognise individual users within a household and deliver personalised experiences based on who’s speaking, including Calling & Messaging, Music, Shopping and Flash Briefings.
Although this is a seriously clever addition it may divide opinion with some still cautious about using smart devices and artificial intelligence.
The thought that this speaker can actually know who’s talking to it may not be for everyone but Amazon is clear that it’s an optional extra.
Amazon also states that its speakers aren’t listening to conversations with Echo devices designed to detect only your chosen wake word.
If you own an Echo and want to give it a try it’s very simple to set up with customers in the UK able to enrol in Alexa Speaker ID by simply asking Alexa to learn their voice.
All you need is a compatible Alexa-enabled device and registered Alexa account.
If you have these then just ask, “Alexa, learn my voice.”
You’ll then need to follow the verbal instructions to teach Alexa your voice.
Amazon says it will take Alexa about five minutes to recognise a voice.
Just ask “Alexa, who am I?” to confirm.
Recognition across your Alexa-enabled devices in the Household is automatic once enrolled.
Amazon recently slashed the prices of its devices and there’s still a deal available own the standard Echo.
This smart speaker currently costs £54.99 – a saving of £35.