Amazon Unveils 21 inch Echo Show w/ Matter, Thread, Zigbee
Amazon has announced possibly the largest smart home display to date, offering a 21 inch screen. Not content with just being the biggest, the new Echo Show 21 also offers a Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and even a Zigbee hub inside.
When screens were first introduced to Echo devices, they enhanced how customers used Alexa by combining voice commands with visual information. This allowed users to view family calendars, reminders, news updates, and photos. Echo devices are still popular for household organisation and streaming video content, leading to the creation of the Echo Show 15 – a wall-mountable smart display designed to complement home décor and improve on a variety of features.
Echo Show 15 and Echo Show 21 Enhancements
The Echo Show 21 has been introduced as the largest Echo Show yet, with nearly double the screen size of the Echo Show 15. It features improved audio quality with enhanced bass, room adaptation technology, and noise reduction for clearer calls. The upgraded auto-framing camera offers double the field of view and 65% more zoom than the Echo Show 15, ensuring users remain in the frame during video calls.
Both devices include a built-in smart home hub compatible with Matter, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, and (Matter over) Thread devices for seamless smart home management. They are also equipped with Wi-Fi 6E for smoother streaming.
Key Features
- Improved Smart Home Integration: Compatible with a range of smart home devices and protocols, the Echo Show 15 and 21 provide quick control of devices like lights, switches, and plugs, as well as viewing camera feeds.
- Enhanced Display and Widgets: Display household information, such as calendars, to-do lists, and sports scores, with customisable widgets.
- Entertainment: Stream content from apps like YouTube, Paramount+, and Prime Video. The Echo Show 21’s larger screen improves the viewing experience, with AI-enhanced search for films and shows. Content can seamlessly transition between devices, such as from the Echo Show to a Fire TV.
- Audio Features: Access music, podcasts, and radio in a centralised hub, and group playback across Echo speakers.
- Digital Photo Frame: Use the large screen to display family photos or curated art, with unlimited storage for Prime members via Amazon Photos.
Pricing and Availability
- Echo Show 15: US$299.99
- Echo Show 21: US$399.99
Both come with an Alexa Voice Remote and wall-mounting equipment. Optional accessories include snap-on frames ($34.99–$39.99) and a premium counter stand ($99.99).
Both the updated Echo Show 15 and Echo Show 21 models are now available for purchase on Amazon.com.
