Amazon Echo Frames (3rd Gen) Review

5 min read 14-11-2024

The third generation of Amazon's Echo Frames, while maintaining its sleek and discreet design, offers a significant upgrade in functionality and user experience. These smart glasses are no longer just a futuristic gadget but a viable option for anyone seeking a hands-free way to interact with Alexa.

Design and Comfort: A Discreet Smart Companion

The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) remain true to their minimalist aesthetic. They're essentially a regular pair of glasses with integrated technology, resembling a more refined and sophisticated version of their predecessors. The frames are crafted from lightweight, durable polycarbonate, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. The sleek, modern design comes in three stylish color options – Black, Blue, and Tortoise – ensuring they complement any outfit.

A key improvement in the design is the placement of the speakers. The 3rd generation features a redesigned speaker arrangement, positioned in the temples, which delivers a more immersive audio experience while also enhancing the privacy of the wearer. This design choice eliminates the need for bulky earpieces, making the glasses more discreet and allowing for better ambient sound awareness.

Performance and Features: Seamless Integration with Alexa

The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) operate on the power of Alexa, offering a seamless integration into your smart home ecosystem. With just a simple tap on the temple or voice command, you can access a multitude of functionalities, including:

Making Calls and Sending Messages: Using Alexa's voice calling and messaging features, you can easily connect with loved ones or colleagues hands-free. This is particularly convenient when you are on the move or in situations where holding your phone isn't practical.
Playing Music and Audiobooks: Enjoying your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks is effortless with the Echo Frames. The speakers deliver clear and crisp audio, allowing you to immerse yourself in your listening experience.
Setting Reminders and Alarms: The Echo Frames can serve as a personal assistant, helping you stay on top of your schedule. Set reminders for important tasks or appointments, and receive timely alerts directly on your glasses.
Controlling Smart Home Devices: Manage your smart home devices, including lights, thermostats, and appliances, with voice commands or simple taps.

Battery Life: A Full Day of Smart Functionality

The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) boast a remarkably improved battery life compared to their predecessors. With a single charge, they can provide a full day of usage, making them a practical choice for everyday use. The charging case, which doubles as a carrying case, is designed for convenient charging.

Privacy and Security: Taking Precautions

While the Echo Frames offer a wealth of features, it is crucial to consider the implications of privacy and security. Amazon has implemented several measures to address these concerns, including:

Limited Data Collection: Amazon only collects the information necessary to function, such as device identifiers, usage data, and voice recordings, and it doesn't store your audio recordings without your explicit consent. You can always review and delete your recordings directly from the Alexa app.
Secure Communication: Data transmission between the glasses and the cloud is encrypted, adding another layer of protection.
Optional Privacy Features: You can choose to disable features that require voice recognition, such as "Alexa, call..." or "Alexa, play..."

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks

Pros:

Sleek and discreet design: The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) seamlessly blend into your everyday style.
Enhanced audio quality: The improved speaker placement delivers clear and immersive audio.
Excellent battery life: A single charge provides a full day of usage.
Seamless Alexa integration: Control your smart home devices and access Alexa's functionalities hands-free.
Comfortable to wear: Lightweight design makes them comfortable for extended wear.

Cons:

Limited audio volume: The speakers are designed for personal listening, so they may not be loud enough for shared audio experiences.
No touchscreen functionality: You can't use touch gestures to interact with the glasses.
Privacy concerns: As with any voice-controlled device, there are potential privacy concerns.
Higher price point: The Echo Frames are more expensive than standard glasses.

User Experience: Practicality Meets Style

The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) represent a significant step forward in the development of smart glasses. They strike a balance between practicality and style, offering a discreet and convenient way to interact with Alexa. We found them particularly helpful for:

Making calls on the go: The hands-free calling feature is convenient when you're driving or in situations where using your phone is difficult.
Listening to music and podcasts: The clear and crisp audio makes it enjoyable to listen to music or podcasts on the move.
Controlling smart home devices: Managing your smart home devices with voice commands adds a touch of convenience to your daily routine.

However, the Echo Frames are not without their limitations. The audio volume is not suitable for sharing audio with others, and the lack of touchscreen functionality may be a drawback for some users.

Comparison with Competitors: Finding the Right Fit

The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) face competition from other smart glasses on the market, such as:

Ray-Ban Stories: These glasses offer a more stylish design with built-in cameras for capturing photos and videos.
Bose Frames Tempo: These glasses focus on providing an immersive audio experience with a focus on sports and fitness.
Vuzix Blade Upgraded: These glasses offer a more comprehensive suite of features, including built-in cameras and AR capabilities.

The best smart glasses for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a discreet design with seamless Alexa integration, the Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are a strong contender.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

Q1: Can I use Echo Frames (3rd Gen) with prescription lenses?

A: Yes, the Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are compatible with prescription lenses. You can either purchase them with your prescription directly from Amazon or take them to an optometrist for lens replacement.

Q2: Are Echo Frames (3rd Gen) waterproof or water-resistant?

A: The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are not waterproof or water-resistant. They are not designed for use in wet environments.

Q3: Can I listen to music on both ears with Echo Frames (3rd Gen)?

A: The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are designed for personal listening. You can listen to music through both speakers, but the audio will not be stereo sound.

Q4: What is the range of the Bluetooth connection on Echo Frames (3rd Gen)?

A: The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) have a Bluetooth range of approximately 30 feet.

Q5: Can I use Echo Frames (3rd Gen) with my Android phone?

A: Yes, the Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

Conclusion: A Step Forward in Smart Glasses Technology

The Amazon Echo Frames (3rd Gen) represent a significant step forward in smart glasses technology. They offer a discreet and convenient way to integrate Alexa into your daily life, making it easier to stay connected, manage your smart home, and enjoy entertainment. While they may not be perfect for everyone, they are a viable option for those seeking a stylish and functional smart glasses solution. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and integrated features in future generations of smart glasses, making them an increasingly integral part of our digital lives.