Amazon Unveils Echo Time: Smart Alarm with Sleep Sensing

Amazon recently introduced the Echo Time, a new smart alarm clock priced at $199.99. This device features a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a vast selection of customizable clockfaces. A key innovation is its sleep-sensing technology, designed to detect movement and breathing to identify sleep stages and wake users at an optimal time within an hour of their set alarm.

The Echo Time addresses some limitations of previous models, such as allowing alarm setting via the touchscreen to avoid disturbing others. It prioritizes clock display, reverting to it after other Alexa commands are completed. For enhanced bedside privacy, it lacks a camera and includes a display that can dim to under 0.3 nits. The device also incorporates a smart home hub, supporting Zigbee, Thread, and Matter protocols.

Additionally, Amazon offers two kids' editions for $209.99, which include a year of Amazon Kids Plus and tailored features like guided bedtime routines and animated characters on their clockfaces. The larger screen size compared to its predecessor is a notable upgrade, though its overall dimensions might be considered large for some bedside tables. An optional stand is available to adjust the screen angle.