The pursuit of seamlessly integrating computers into our daily lives continues, with smart glasses emerging as a prominent contender. Amazon’s third-generation Echo Frames refine the audio smart glasses concept, offering a compelling blend of functionality and convenience. While they lack a display, the tight integration with the Amazon ecosystem makes them an attractive option for those seeking hands-free access to Alexa and smart home control. This review delves into the design, audio quality, Alexa integration, and overall value of the latest Echo Frames.
The key improvements in this iteration are focused on enhancing the user experience. We’ll explore how these updates contribute to making the Echo Frames a practical and enjoyable wearable device.
Design and Comfort: A Sleeker Look and Feel
Amazon Echo Frames are water resistant so a bit of rain or snow is okay.Amazon has slimmed down the earpieces of the third-generation Echo Frames by 15%, making them resemble regular glasses more closely than their predecessors. While still noticeably thicker than standard frames, they offer a more discreet aesthetic. With five frame styles and three lens options for each, users can choose a combination that suits their personal style. The tested model featured black rectangular frames with prescription-ready clear lenses. Other options include a two-tone gray frame with black earpieces, square black frames, round blue frames, and cat-eye brown frames.
The Echo Frames are surprisingly comfortable. Weighing just over an ounce (38 grams), they feel like regular glasses. Adjustable ear tips further enhance the fit, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort. Be sure to consult Amazon’s sizing guide before purchasing, as each frame style has different dimensions. For larger sizes, the Carrera smart glasses, which incorporate the same Amazon technology, are available at a slightly higher price.
Enhanced Audio Quality: A Significant Upgrade
Echo Frames plays your favorite holiday tunes on Amazon Music, but you can use other services.As audio is the primary function of the Echo Frames, sound quality is paramount. Amazon has made substantial improvements in this area, doubling the speaker volume, tripling bass strength, and enhancing microphone clarity. The result is a richer and more immersive listening experience. While good-quality earbuds or headphones still offer superior audio fidelity, the Echo Frames provide ample volume and surprisingly decent bass for their size. Sound leakage, a concern with previous versions, has been significantly reduced, offering a more private listening experience.
Microphone performance has also received a major boost, with Amazon claiming up to ten times better voice recognition. This improvement is noticeable both when interacting with Alexa and during phone calls. Background noise is effectively filtered, ensuring clear communication even in moderately noisy environments. Privacy concerns are addressed with a convenient double-click mute function on the right front button, and the glasses automatically enter sleep mode when folded.
Seamless Alexa Integration: Your Voice Assistant at Your Ear
Alexa offers voice control, but four buttons allow quick, silent adjustments.The integration with Alexa is a core feature of the Echo Frames. Users can leverage Alexa’s capabilities for tasks like setting timers and alarms, creating notes and lists, and accessing information. The Echo Frames offer a convenient hands-free way to interact with the digital assistant. While not as conversational as AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Alexa provides useful responses to a wide range of queries. Notification management is facilitated through a customizable VIP Filter, allowing users to prioritize important alerts. Firmware updates are handled seamlessly through the Alexa app.
Ecosystem Integration and Compatibility: Expanding the Possibilities
Echo Frames are as light as regular glasses and comfortable enough to wear all day.The Echo Frames seamlessly integrate with the Amazon ecosystem, providing access to services like Kindle eBooks, Amazon Music, and Amazon shopping. Free content is readily available, including Kindle books and free radio playback on Amazon Music. Control of Alexa-compatible smart devices is also possible, allowing users to adjust lighting, thermostats, and other connected devices. The Echo Frames can function as a Bluetooth headset, connecting to two devices simultaneously and automatically switching between audio sources.
While deeply integrated with Amazon services, the Echo Frames offer compatibility with other digital assistants and music providers. A long press on the right rear button allows access to Siri and Apple Music on iPhones, while Android users can connect to Spotify and Google Assistant.
Battery Life and Charging: Adequate for Daily Use
Echo Frames look like normal glasses, but I still drew a crowd when wearing them.With moderate usage, the Echo Frames offer up to 14 hours of battery life, a 40% improvement over the previous generation. Continuous audio playback reduces this to around 6 hours. The included charging dock replenishes the battery in 2.5 hours. While a charging case would enhance portability, the current battery life is generally sufficient for daily use. A low-power mode is available to disable the always-listening feature, extending battery life further.
The third-generation Amazon Echo Frames sitting on their charging base.The charging base requires a specific placement of the glasses for proper charging. While the quick start guide provides instructions, it could be more explicit. Ensuring the lenses face upward and positioning the temples correctly is essential for a successful charge.
Should You Buy the Amazon Echo Frames?
The Echo Frames offer a unique blend of convenience and functionality. Priced at $270 (with frequent discounts to $195), they are a more expensive alternative to earbuds like the Amazon Echo Buds, which offer similar features and a charging case. However, for those who prefer an open-ear design and the comfort of glasses, the Echo Frames present a compelling option. They provide seamless access to Alexa, smart home control, and audio playback, all in a discreet and comfortable package. While smart glasses with displays offer a different experience, the Echo Frames carve out a niche for users seeking a more audio-focused approach to wearable technology.
