Too lazy to use the remote control to turn on the TV? Can’t figure out which one to use?
Ask Alexa, starting June 21. That’s when Amazon will begin selling its first voice-activated device — a 4K Ultra HD set-top box that operates TVs and set-top boxes, along with other electronics, by using voice commands.
Generating tons of buzz is the soon-to-debut Fire TV Cube, with an MSRP of $119.99 that is being offered to Prime members for $89.99 and free shipping.
“Fire TV Cube is the first hands-free streaming media player with Alexa, delivering an all-in-one entertainment experience,” Amazon notes. “From across the room, just ask Alexa to turn on the TV, dim the lights, and play what you want to watch.”
Powering the Fire TV Cube is “far-field voice recognition,” plus eight microphones and beamforming technology. “Fire TV Cube hears you from any direction,” Amazon says.
Then, there are the typical Alexa-powered options: Fire TV Cube has a built-in speaker that lets consumers check the weather, listen to the news, and control compatible smart home devices when the TV is off.
While Fire TV Cube supports a wide range of brands, the capabilities of your specific device may vary. Fire TV Cube will support sleep timers later this year. Alexa Calling & Messaging, multi-room music, and Bluetooth connections to mobile phones are not currently supported on Fire TV Cube.
So, how does it work?
Here’s how Amazon’s marketing team is pitching its newest voice-activated device:
Fire TV Cube is the first hands-free streaming media player with Alexa, delivering an all-in-one entertainment experience. From across the room just say, “Alexa, play Billions” and Fire TV Cube turns on your TV and starts playing the SHOWTIME drama, allowing you to control your entertainment with voice commands. Watch as thousands of movies and TV episodes come to life with vibrant colors and detailed contrast in 4K Ultra HD and HDR.
