New Echo smart speaker released today as Amazon takes aim at Google Home

Smart speakers continue to boom in popularity with Google and Amazon battling it out for a space in your home.

The Google Home and Amazon Echo continue to lead the way with these intelligent devices becoming some of the biggest selling gadgets on the planet.

When this revolution first began these music makers just included a speaker but over the past few years, things have changed with the introduction of a display.

Google recently announced the launch of its new Nest Hub Max which includes a large 10-inch display.

Nest Hub Max also features a powerful audio array and has a built-in Nest Cam that allows users to monitor what is going on in their home when they are out and about.

Amazon already has its £219 Echo Show but now there’s a new all-screen device which arrives in homes at a much cheaper price.

The all-new Echo Show 5 has officially gone on sale today and features all the usual Alexa-powered smart skills but it also adds a 5.5-inch screen and in-built camera to mix.

As well as offering that display there’s also some decent speakers which Amazon says offers rich and full audio.

A new smart home dashboard is also included which gives you even more control over compatible smart home devices and groups. You can also view your smart home camera feed and thermostats, access recently used devices, and manage smart devices by group.

With a screen included you can play some more visual games such as Pointless and Deal or No Deal plus make video calls to friends and family.

Amazon has also now added an ambient lighting mode which auto-adjusts the brightness of the screen based on the light in the room.

“Since we launched the first Echo Show device, customers have told us that they love asking Alexa to show them things—whether it’s asking for their favourite recipes to cook along with, their shopping list, or music lyrics. With Echo Show 5, we’ve made it even easier and affordable for customers to add a smart display to every room of their house,” said Jorrit Van der Meulen, VP Amazon Devices EU.

“The compact form factor is perfect for a bedside table or desk, plus it has a camera shutter for added peace of mind, and new Alexa privacy features that are coming soon to the UK for even more control.”

Echo Show 5 is available in Charcoal and Sandstone for £79.99.

source: express.co.uk