Online retail giant Amazon is set to host its annual devices event tomorrow, during which it is expected to unveil updates to a range of products in its extensive lineup. The event, which has become a regular feature in Amazon’s calendar, will likely include new Fire TV sticks, Echo speakers and displays, Ring cameras, Blink devices, and an eero WiFi system.
David Limp, Amazon’s senior vice president of devices and services, provided a teaser on his LinkedIn account. He stated, “The Devices & Services team has already had a very busy year, and now that Amazon’s HQ2 is officially open, it only feels right to gather there in a few months to share a bit more of what we’ve been working on. Mark your calendar for 9/20 for some news from us!”
This year marks a transitional period for Amazon, as Limp has announced his retirement. Consequently, the September 20 event will be his final appearance on stage for this event. Limp has played a pivotal role in driving innovation through Amazon’s devices, setting the tone for the company’s inventive endeavors. Interestingly, Microsoft Chief Product Officer Panos Panay has been chosen as Limp’s successor. Coincidentally, Microsoft is also planning to hold its Surface event on the same day.
Unlike previous years, Amazon’s livestream for the event will not be available to the public. However, Cord Cutters News will be providing real-time updates throughout the event.
Here are some of the devices that are highly anticipated to be announced tomorrow:
Fire TVs:
Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission indicate that new Fire TV models are likely to be showcased at the event. It is expected that one of the devices will support the WiFi 6 standard, while another will support the latest WiFi 6E standard, which offers faster speeds at a higher frequency. This suggests the release of a standard Fire TV Stick as well as a higher-end model, potentially named the Fire TV Stick 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
In the weeks leading up to the event, Amazon has been running sales on their Fire TVs, leading to speculation that both the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and the Fire TV Stick 4K could receive updates as Amazon clears out stock. The current Fire TV Stick 4K Max was launched in early October 2021, aligning with Amazon’s historical pattern of releasing updates every two years.
Echo speakers and displays:
It is highly likely that Amazon will introduce new Echo speakers. It has been two years since the company unveiled a flagship Echo speaker, with the smaller Echo Dots receiving their refresh in 2022. Additionally, it is possible that Amazon will announce updates to its smart displays. The Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 10, both over two years old, could receive their own refresh, similar to the Amazon Echo. Therefore, it is probable that we will see one or more new Echo devices this year.
eero WiFi Mesh Network:
Amazon’s eero mesh WiFi system is regarded as one of the best in the market. The standard eero 6 Mesh WiFi router will be three years old later this year, and while there is a newer, more expensive Pro Version, speculation suggests that Amazon may release a more affordable standard eero mesh WiFi network.
Fire Tablets:
While Amazon recently released the new Fire Tablet Max 11, there is still a possibility of an update to the smaller Fire Tablet 7. We will have to wait for the event to confirm.
Alexa Improvements:
Amazon’s inclusion of Alexa, a functional and intelligent digital assistant, played a significant role in creating the smart speaker market. Over time, Alexa’s capabilities have expanded, but with the emergence of AI systems like ChatGPT, Amazon may take the opportunity to discuss enhanced features of the assistant during the event.
These are the devices we anticipate Amazon will unveil tomorrow. Stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage of all the announcements made during the event.
