With the Echo Show 15, Amazon has its largest Echo with a display to date. Now the smart device gets an update. Thanks to it, the Echo becomes a Smart TV.
When Amazon introduced the Echo Show 15 in September 2021, expectations of the device were high. It should be nothing less than the control center for the home network. On the Echo, users can arrange widgets, find out about appointments, store messages for the family or – typical for Echo – listen to music. The whole thing is controlled via the 15.6-inch touchscreen. The Echo Show 15 is the largest Echo device with a screen to date. However, so far it has only been able to convince relatively few users. The surface was too rigid and the functions too limited for many. Now Amazon is delivering an update that turns the Echo Show 15 into a smart TV.
Amazon rolls out smart TV update for the Echo Show 15
The Echo Show 15 can be described as a smart display due to its flat design and its ability to be hung on the wall. Alternatively, it can also be placed on a table with a stand. With the update that has now been rolled out, Amazon uses these basics very well. From now on, the Echo Show 15 is also suitable as a television. Although users have so far been able to access content on Amazon Prime Video, for example, operation was rather cumbersome and the choice of alternative streaming providers was severely limited. With the update to version number 7.5.0.0 (PS7500.3991N/3991), Amazon is bringing its Fire TV interface to the Echo Show 15. And that brings various advantages for users.
A number of streaming providers can now be accessed via the Echo Show 15, including Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+ and YouTube. Users can find the right apps clearly on the new interface, which can be accessed by clicking on the new Fire TV icon in the top right corner of the start screen. If it is clicked, the TV interface appears, which users are also familiar with from the Fire TV Stick. Also with the update comes the ability to operate the Echo Show 15 by remote control. Not only the remote controls of the Fire TV devices are compatible, but also Amazon’s new Alexa voice remote control Pro with additional buttons.
Hardware perfectly suited for TV function
Thanks to the new smart TV function that was rolled out via update, the Echo Show 15 becomes a small TV that is well suited for the kitchen, for example. The playback takes place in full HD at most, a speaker is also integrated in the device. The integrated 5-megapixel camera can be blocked with a slider if desired.
The Echo Show 15 can be hung on the wall and has a black frame reminiscent of a picture frame. However, it is also a bit thick and does not sit flush with the wall. Another shortcoming can be the cable, which is only 1.5 meters long, which could be a bit short for a wall installation. Since Amazon relies on a proprietary connection, it cannot be easily exchanged.