Amazon has announced the Echo Flex which is a device that plugs into a wall outlet, and it allows users to access their Alexa system through the device. Amazon has priced the Echo Flex at $24.99, and it will come with a USB port so the outlet can still be used for charging. The USB port will have an API, which allows for a motion sensor or nightlight. The device will have a speaker though Amazon has stated that the speaker will be approximately as loud as a smartphone.
The new Echo Flex device will allow customers to access Alexa features in different rooms. This allows customers to be more connected with their smart home system in a convenient and streamlined way. Additionally, the price allows it to be a simple add-on to any smart home system.
Image Credit: Amazon
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Wall Outlet-based Smarthome Devices
- The trend of creating smarthome devices that connect directly to wall outlets will continue to grow as it allows for a space-saving, centralized access point for multiple devices.
- Affordable Smart Home Accessories
- An increase in affordable add-ons that improve the smart home experience will create opportunities for disruptive innovations in the smart home industry.
- Multi-room Smart Homes
- As more devices like the Echo Flex are introduced, we can expect to see an increase in multi-room smart home systems that are more convenient for users.
Where This Applies
- Consumer Electronics
- The consumer electronics industry will benefit from the sales of cost-effective, user-friendly smart home accessories such as the Echo Flex.
- Home Automation
- The home automation industry will continue to be disrupted with better and more convenient smart home devices that allow for greater connectivity and ease-of-use.
- Commercial Real Estate
- Commercial real estate builders and managers can capitalize on these trends by incorporating smart home technologies into new office spaces to meet the growing demand for connected features.
