SRC Explorers View the Echo Show and Respond

The Saratoga Explorers are introduced to the Echo Show, an enhancement by Amazon of the Echo family of voice operated AI devices, which now features a display screen. The demonstration begins with a voice command to call someone at a remote location. In moments, the call is placed and the group is visible to the person called and there is voice to voice connection. and the recipient is seen on the device by the group.

Members were immediately curious about the gadget, and expressed both amazement at the ease of connection and visual display as well as some mixed feelings:

The good

• Different from Face Time - especially the better display and sound than smartphone or iPad
• Ease of visiting friends or family in a group setting

The not so good

• Setup seems complex for inexperienced users
• Expensive
• Privacy questioned, especially in 'Drop In' mode (intrusive/alarming)

On balance, the impression was good, considering ease of use if both sides of the conversation are using the device.