"Pricier components seem to be a driving force behind the bigger price tags. The new speakers, for instance, feature AZ3 and AZ23 Pro processors that include a new "AI Accelerator designed to run AI edge models," according to Amazon's announcement. The processors are supposed to enable "better conversation detection" alongside improved mics for blocking out background noise "and improving Alexa's ability to detect the wake-word by over 50 percent.""
"Similarly, Amazon's new Fire TVs with Alexa+ have higher starting prices than the regular Alexa-based models that preceded them. The updated Fire TV Omni QLED Series ranges from $350 to $1,200 for 50- to 75-inch models. The preceding series launched in 2023 for $350 to $1,100. The new Fire TV 2-Series has a higher entry point too ($160 versus $200), though Amazon's new Fire TV Stick Select with Alexa+ is cheaper than its other 4K sticks at $40."
Several new Amazon Alexa+ devices launched with mostly higher prices compared with prior models, including the $180 Echo Show 8 (up from $150) and higher-priced Fire TV lines. Amazon also introduced an $220 Echo Show 11 that is cheaper than the 2021 Echo Show 10. Fire TV Omni QLED now ranges $350–$1,200, and the Fire TV 2-Series entry price increased. Multiple factors such as inflation, tariffs, and production costs could affect prices. Amazon states the devices include improved sound, responsiveness, and features. New AZ3 and AZ23 Pro processors add an AI Accelerator, enhanced wake-word detection, vision transformer support, and an Omnisense sensor platform.
Read at Ars Technica
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