Amazon just announced a wave of new Alexa-equipped Echo devices. There’s a wall clock that lets you set timers, something called Echo Input that let’s you add an Alexa/Echo to an existing speaker via Bluetooth or 3.5mm headphone jack. There’s an Echo subwoofer and Echo Amp (think stereo equipment), and an Echo smart plug (use your voice to turn things on and off).
But my favorite? The Amazon Alexa Microwave. Yes, a microwave that lets you use your voice instead of pressing buttons. And it’s only $59.99.
I expect this thing to fly off the shelves, especially to college students. I wonder how long it will be until one of these devices makes its way into a movie or TV show plot. The microwave ships November 15th, in plenty of time for the holidays.
With every Google and Amazon announcement, I line yet another hat with tinfoil. I’m just creeped out at all of the surveillance that goes on in the name of commerce.
I don’t trust Amazon enough to buy their Alexa products. But the microwave is kind of cool. Home appliance interfaces are generally ridiculous.
note that it requires an accessory Echo to do the listening. if you don’t have one (i don’t), you have to press the button on the front first and then give it the voice command. lame.
Pretty soon, your toilet paper dispenser is going to be embedded with Alexa.
You: “Oh shoot, the toilet paper is almost out.”
Alexa: “Are you sure that’s enough squares? You need squeezably soft Charmin to get the job done right. Remember those cute dancing bears who won’t go in the woods with out it? Just say the words “Alexa, buy Charmine giant pack” and because we have a warehouse nearby, you’ll have it in fifteen minutes, with only a $20 rush delivery charge! And if you had an Alexa Deadbolt on your front door, you could remotely let the delivery person in so he could hand it to you personally!”
I wonder how long it will be until one of these devices is discovered to have been used to steal confidential information.
No kidding, an Alexa microwave is probably useful for people who have poor coordination or trembling hands or the like.
(Note that it’s a microwave that *interfaces* with an Echo device; it does not contain the capability on its own.)
Save some for me. I know at least one person on FB who’ll hear about this during the next Amazon Prime Day and shriek about wanting it to all their little friends.
“Alexa, wipe my..” Never mind…