My favorite new feature on the third-generation Echo Show 8 is the addition of widgets. These widgets transform the smart display into a more user-friendly touchscreen controller, allowing you to access information quickly and easily without relying solely on voice commands. It’s almost as versatile as a tablet or phone, but with the added advantage of being a device that anyone in my household can use. However, while this is a great addition, it may not be a compelling enough reason to upgrade from the second-generation model, especially considering that widgets are also being added to that version. Amazon’s decision to bring this feature to the second-gen Show 8 is a smart move.
In addition to widgets, the second-generation Echo Show 8 is also receiving another new feature from the third-gen model called Adaptive Content. This feature adjusts the screen based on your proximity to it, making it more convenient to use across the room. With the second-gen Show 8 currently on sale for $60, down from its original price of $129.99, it becomes a more appealing option, especially when considering the slight differences between the two models.
That being said, the new Show 8 does offer some impressive features that make it worth considering, particularly if you’re in the market for a smart home controller. Notably, it is the first Amazon smart display to serve as a fully functional smart home hub. It now supports Zigbee and Thread, allowing you to add and control a wide range of smart devices in your home. Additionally, it serves as a Matter controller and Sidewalk hub. The inclusion of Amazon’s AZ2 chip also enhances the touchscreen responsiveness and overall speed of the device.
For those who are new to the world of smart home devices or looking to expand their existing setup, the new Show 8 is a fantastic starting point. It offers a wide range of features at a reasonable price point, even though it is $20 more expensive than its predecessor at launch. In addition to its smart home capabilities, it functions as an Alexa smart speaker with a screen, allowing you to set timers, ask questions, play music, and even use it as a home intercom. The screen also adds additional features such as video calling, movie watching, and visual answers to questions. Furthermore, it serves as a decent digital photo frame.
One important consideration when bringing connected devices into your home is data privacy. The Echo Show 8 collects voice and smart home device interactions with Alexa, although its onboard camera does not record any video and can only be used for livestreaming. Voice interactions are encrypted in transit and stored securely in Amazon’s cloud. Users can review and delete this data at any time through the app or Amazon’s Alexa Privacy Hub. Additionally, users can choose to opt out of allowing Amazon to use their recordings to improve Alexa.
Another aspect that sets the new Show 8 apart from its predecessor is the enhanced sound quality. While previous Show 8 models already boasted decent sound for smart displays, the third-gen version features a redesigned speaker system and spatial audio. In testing, it performed significantly better than the first-gen Show 8 and even held its own against a second-gen HomePod, despite the latter offering better clarity.
Despite its many impressive features, it’s important to note that the Echo Show 8 is still an Amazon smart display, meaning its primary purpose is to encourage users to spend more money with Amazon. If left unoptimized, the device can bombard users with “product tips” and suggestions for using Alexa. However, by toggling off unnecessary options and settings, it’s possible to transform the Echo Show 8 into a decent digital photo frame. Users can even pay an additional $10 for the Echo Show 8 Photos Edition for a cleaner photo frame experience, although there are better options available if that’s your primary goal.
Overall, the third-generation Echo Show 8 offers notable improvements over its predecessor, including the addition of widgets, enhanced sound quality, and expanded smart home capabilities. Whether it’s worth upgrading from the second-gen model depends on individual preferences and needs. For those new to smart home devices or looking for a versatile smart display at a reasonable price, the new Show 8 is a solid choice. However, if you already own the second-gen Show 8 and don’t feel the need for the new features, it may be more cost-effective to stick with your current device.
