The Echo Frames (3rd Gen)
The Echo Frames (3rd Gen) are smart audio glasses with Alexa, designed by Amazon. They offer a range of features such as access to music and content, hands-free communication, open-ear audio, and smart home control. With a fashionable design, comfortable fit, and focus on privacy, these glasses aim to elevate your everyday experience.
Having used the Razer Anzu and Jlab frames in the past, I was excited to try out the Echo Frames. Right off the bat, I was impressed with the audio quality, combining the best aspects of the Anzus and Jlabs. The lightweight and quality construction of the frames, especially the wide frame option, provided a comfortable fit for my head size. The sound was clean with good bass, although I did experience occasional Bluetooth issues like losing stereo sync and needing to reconnect. Phone call quality was excellent, offering good voice isolation.
Using Alexa on the Echo Frames was a mixed experience. While it was convenient to have access to my favorite voice assistant, the response time was slower compared to my Echo Dots, likely due to the Bluetooth connection. I had to mute it after a few days as it would frequently wake up based on the audio it produced, mistakenly thinking someone said “echo” in my YouTube videos. This was a weak point for the device.
Battery life exceeded my expectations, lasting all day with continuous use. I could listen to music, make phone calls, and watch YouTube videos for hours, and still have around 10-15% battery remaining at the end of the day. The charging method was also convenient, much better than dealing with cables. However, I would appreciate more customization options for button mapping and the ability to change the wake word voice.
Access Your Favorite Music and Content
One of the key aspects of the Echo Frames (3rd Gen) is its ability to provide easy access to your favorite music and content. With these smart audio glasses, you can hit the streets and simply ask Alexa to play music, podcasts, or Audible books from some of your favorite streaming apps. This hands-free feature allows you to enjoy your audio content without the need to pull out your phone or wear additional headphones. Whether you’re going for a walk or commuting, the Echo Frames make it convenient to stay entertained and connected to your preferred audio content.
Hands-Free Communications
Another standout feature of the Echo Frames is its hands-free communication capability. With open-ear audio calling, you can keep in touch with your contacts without needing to take out your phone. The built-in speakers direct sound to your ears without covering them, allowing you to have conversations while still being aware of your surroundings. This is particularly useful when you’re on the go or need to multitask. The Echo Frames enable seamless communication, making it easier to stay connected with your friends, family, and colleagues while keeping your hands free.
Next Generation Open-Ear Audio
The Echo Frames take open-ear audio to the next level. These smart audio glasses direct sound to your ears without completely blocking them, providing a unique listening experience. This innovative design allows you to enjoy your audio content while minimizing what others around you can hear. Whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or even receiving notifications, the Echo Frames deliver personalized audio without disturbing those around you. This makes it ideal for situations where you want to enjoy your audio privately while still being aware of your environment.
Control Your Smart Home from Anywhere
With Alexa integration, the Echo Frames offer the convenience of controlling your smart home devices from anywhere. Whether you’re at home or away, you can use the frames to check if you locked the front door, turn on or off lights, and adjust your thermostat. This seamless integration allows you to manage your smart home ecosystem without needing to reach for your phone or a separate smart speaker. The Echo Frames make it effortless to stay in control of your connected devices, enhancing the overall convenience and efficiency of your smart home setup.
Fashion Meets Function
Designed with both fashion and functionality in mind, the Echo Frames offer a stylish accessory that elevates your look. Available in fashion-forward styles, these smart audio glasses are made from high-quality acetate, feature German-engineered spring hinges, and sport premium metal tone finishes. The combination of aesthetics and durability ensures that the Echo Frames not only complement your personal style but also withstand everyday wear. Whether you’re heading to work or going out with friends, these frames merge fashion and function, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
Designed to Wear All Day
The Echo Frames are engineered for all-day wear, offering lightweight and comfortable construction. With IPX4 water and sweat resistance, you can confidently wear them during various activities without worrying about damage. Additionally, these frames are compatible with most prescription lenses, allowing you to customize them to your vision needs. Whether you have a busy day ahead or simply want a reliable accessory, the Echo Frames are designed to provide long-lasting comfort and functionality from morning to night.(Note: The above responses have been written in an active voice and personalized tone.)
Pros:
- Access to favorite music and content on the go. With the Echo Frames, you can easily ask Alexa to play music, podcasts, or Audible books from your favorite streaming apps, allowing you to enjoy your entertainment while on the move.
- Hands-free communications. The open-ear audio calling feature allows you to stay connected without having to pull out your phone. You can make calls and have conversations while keeping your hands free, making it convenient for multitasking or when you’re on the go.
- Next-generation open-ear audio. The Echo Frames direct sound to your ears without covering them, providing a personalized audio experience. This technology minimizes what others around you can hear, allowing you to enjoy your audio content without disturbing those nearby.
Cons:
- Bluetooth connectivity issues. Some users have reported small Bluetooth issues, such as loss of stereo sync or the need to turn the frames off and on again for connection. While these issues may not be widespread, they can be an inconvenience for some users.
- Wake word sensitivity. The Echo Frames may occasionally wake up and respond to audio that sounds like the wake word, even if it wasn’t intended as a command. This sensitivity can be frustrating for users who experience frequent unintentional activations.
- Challenging charging system. The charging dock for the Echo Frames has been a source of frustration for some users. It can be difficult to properly align the frames with the charger, and the instructions provided may be hard to read without wearing glasses. This can lead to longer charging times and potential damage to the frames.
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Conclusion
Overall, the Echo Frames (3rd Gen) offer a great combination of functionality and style. The audio quality, comfortable fit, and long-lasting battery make them a suitable companion for all-day use. While there were some hiccups with Bluetooth connectivity and wake word sensitivity, these are minor inconveniences compared to the convenience of having Alexa on your frames. If you’re looking for smart audio glasses that deliver on both fashion and function, the Echo Frames are worth considering.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Can I control my smart home devices with the Echo Frames?
Answer: Yes, you can control your smart home devices using Alexa on your Echo Frames. You can check if you locked the front door, turn on/off lights, and adjust your thermostat, even when you’re away from home.
Question: Are the Echo Frames comfortable to wear for extended periods?
Answer: The Echo Frames are designed to be lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. They are also sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for various activities. Additionally, they are compatible with most prescription lenses, allowing you to customize them to your vision needs.
Question: How long does the battery last on the Echo Frames?
Answer: The Echo Frames offer up to 6 hours of continuous media playback or up to 14 hours of moderate usage. Moderate usage includes media playback, talk time, Alexa interactions, and incoming notifications throughout the day. The frames also come with a charging stand that is made from 35% recycled materials, emphasizing sustainability.
