Amazon Echo Time is a $199.99 smart alarm clock designed for the nightstand, with a circular touchscreen, Alexa+ and an optional feature that uses sensors to time a wake-up. Amazon says the camera-free device is available now in the United States in three colors.
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A bedside clock with an optional smart alarm
The spherical Echo Time has a 3.2-inch circular touchscreen and hundreds of clock faces, ranging from analog styles to seasonal designs and licensed characters. Owners can customize the information shown on screen or ask Alexa to change the clock face.
The feature that sets it apart is an optional smart alarm. Amazon says its Omnisense technology combines room-temperature and presence sensors with ultrasound that detects breathing and proximity. The company says the device uses those signals to detect lighter sleep and choose a wake-up moment within a 10-to-60-minute window of the set alarm, without requiring a wearable.
That’s Amazon’s description of how the alarm is intended to work; we haven’t tested its sleep detection or whether it makes waking up easier. Sleep sensing is opt-in, and the company says it can be switched off through device settings in the Alexa app or by muting the microphones.
The display can also brighten gradually as an alarm approaches. In the evening, Amazon says it shifts to a dimmer night mode that shows the time or next alarm and reduces blue light. Alarm tones start quietly and build with successive snoozes, up to four times.
Alexa, privacy and the kids version
Echo Time has no camera, but it does have microphones for Alexa. Amazon says visual indicators show when Alexa is listening, and a dedicated button turns the microphones off. Certain features require Alexa+, which Amazon says is included with Prime membership; our Alexa+ coverage explains the membership details.
Alexa can handle requests such as setting an alarm and a reminder, playing relaxing music or adjusting a compatible thermostat. As with any connected assistant, those capabilities depend on the relevant services and compatible devices.
Amazon also offers an Amazon Kids Echo Time, with Kids+ features and parental controls through the Amazon Parent Dashboard. Its Sleep Studio feature offers curated wind-down content, and parents can set sleep schedules. The kids model includes one year of Kids+.
Price and availability
In the U.S., the standard Echo Time costs $199.99 and comes in Graphite, Glacier White or Coral Pink. A matching adjustable stand costs $39.99 separately. The Amazon Kids Echo Time starts at $209.99 and comes in Galactic Grape or Cosmic Lime.
