Your Echo Show 15 Can Now Function As A Fire TV With Spatial Audio

Amazon has released a new update for the Echo Show 15 that turns the smart display into a Fire TV that can be used with an Alexa Voice Remote.

Amazon has released a new software update for the Echo Show 15 that transforms it into a Fire TV, and also adds spatial audio in the process. The Echo Show 15 has a large 15.6-inch display and can be hung on a wall in vertical or horizontal orientation. Users can also purchase an optional stand if they would rather have it sitting on flat a surface. Those who choose this option can also switch between having it sit vertically or in landscape mode.

The Echo Show 15 works like any other Echo Show device. Its LCD display supports touch input and users can choose to interact with its Alexa voice assistant. Users can ask questions, create shopping lists, and view the weather, but the functionality goes beyond that. Amazon also lets Echo Show 15 users watch videos on the smart display, but the available streaming apps have been limited, until now.

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Back in September, Amazon promised that an update would be made available for its biggest smart display that would turn it into a portable Fire TV. The free software update has now begun to roll out to existing customers and will also be available on new devices, according to a press release. Existing users can access the new features by downloading a software update. To do this, swipe down from the top of the screen, select ‘Settings’ and tap on ‘Device Options.’ Select ‘Check for Software updates‘ and download the update if available. Amazon says the Fire TV experience will install during setup for new users.

Echo Show 15 Works With Alexa Voice Remote

Once the Fire TV experience is available on the Echo Show 15, users can download any of the Fire TV compatible streaming apps, including HBO Max, YouTube, Disney+, Peacock, Hulu, and Paramount+, among others. Once downloaded, users can summon Alexa to open a streaming app or play a show or movie, provided the title is available on a streaming app they’re subscribed to. While voice input can be convenient for some, others may prefer using different methods, like the Alexa Voice Remote (3rd Gen). With the remote, users can navigate the Echo Show 15’s interface just as they would on a smart TV.

Amazon is offering a limited time deal on the Alexa Voice Remote for Echo Show 15 users that knocks $20 off the remote’s $29.99 price. This deal can be redeemed right from the smart display. New buyers can purchase the Echo Show 15 and Alexa Voice Remote (3rd Gen) for $194.99, which works out to a discount of $84.99.

Those who don’t want to pick up a new remote can use the virtual remote in the Amazon Fire TV app or the virtual remote on the screen of the Echo Show 15. In addition to bringing the Fire TV experience to the Echo Show 15, the update also brings spatial audio to the smart display. Spatial audio greatly enhances the audio experience on the Amazon Echo Show 15 by creating a more immersive sound experience akin to a wide stereo system when watching movies and TV shows.

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Source: Amazon