1There’s More Than Meets the Eye in Amazon’s Echo Look Style Assistant
Amazon continued to expand its line of smart internet of things devices with the April 26 introduction of a new device it’s calling the Echo Look, a home camera that connects to the network over WiFi and snaps a picture of a person standing in front of it. The device then analyzes the person’s wardrobe and provides on-the-fly style advice. But further investigation reveals there’s far more to the Echo Look than some fashion help. Speculation abounds that the camera could be used in myriad other ways with just a few software updates. Style is just one way Amazon will try to attract users. In the following slides, eWEEK will discuss the $200 device and explain why there could be more to this device’s design than meets the eye.
2The Echo Look Is a Fashion-Forward Device
3It Includes Amazon Alexa Integration
4It Works With Full Voice Control
5It’s Designed for the Style Conscious
Amazon’s Echo Look comes with a feature called Style Check, which tells users whether one outfit or another is best for them. To use the feature, users must take a picture of themselves in two different outfits and the images are processed through an algorithm that evaluates them based on fit, color, styling and trends. Amazon’s fashion specialists also provide their opinions.
6It’s Small and Inconspicous
7Users Can Catalog Their Fashion Looks
8Audio Playback Is Built-In
9Will Amazon Add New Features?
Many people have speculated that Amazon has more planned for the Echo Look than just fashion. Rumors say the Echo Look could be updated with firmware that expands its features, turns it into a security camera and more. It’s possible Amazon’s Echo Look eventually could become much more than a fashion device.
10There Are Privacy Concerns
Some privacy experts aren’t so sure about the Echo Look. They wonder, for instance, what happens to the images people take after they’re evaluated by Amazon’s algorithms. And with a camera watching them, some wonder what kind of security safeguards Amazon has in place to prevent hackers from watching them in their bedrooms. All are worthy considerations and it’s a good idea to turn off the camera.
11Here’s How Much Echo Look Costs
The Amazon Echo Look is available by invitation only through the e-retailer’s website. It’s available for $200 and, when it’s made available, will qualify for free shipping to Prime customers.