Amazon Debuts Echo Plus Speaker With Integrated Smart Home Hub
Amazon Unveils Improved Alexa Home Hub, Mini Spot
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Amazon.com Inc. debuted a new high-end version of its Echo speaker with a smart-home hub system built in, stepping up a fight with Alphabet Inc. and Apple Inc. for digital control of people’s homes.
The upgraded device, called the Echo Plus, has better sound that older models and costs $150, down from the current $180 price, Amazon said at an event in Seattle on Wednesday. The smart home hub lets user more easily connect and control other accessories including lights, thermostats and locks, with their voice. This was possible before, but the set-up was more complicated.