Amazon Is Launching a Better, Cheaper Version of Its Smaller Echo Speaker

Amazon is launching a cheaper version of its smaller-sized home assistant, the Echo Dot, that it claims will be better at recognizing your voice from afar. The device is up for preorder starting Wednesday and will be shipping next month. The new Echo Dot, which will be priced at 49.99 compared to its original price of 89.99, includes a more powerful speech processor and will be available in black and white color options. Amazon is also allowing anyone to purchase the Echo Dot, whereas it was originally only available for those with a Prime account and an Amazon device that supports its Alexa assistant. The Echo Dot, unlike its larger sibling, isn't meant to function as a primary home entertainment speaker.