Amazon is taking Microsoft's naming approach to hardware devices, as they've just introduced the somewhat more privacy focused Echo Show 5. The naming comes from the device's 5.5-inch screen, which is quite a bit smaller than the 10.1-inch display on the larger Echo Show.
This nestles the Echo Show 5 right in between the Echo Dot and regular Echo Show, and makes an excellent option for someone looking for a more compact device.
In addition to just being a slightly smaller Echo Show, the Show 5 does appear to be a shift in Amazon's stance regarding privacy. The camera features a mechanical switch so you can completely cover it up, just in case you're concerned about any prying eyes. Another kill switch nixes the connection to the camera and microphone, too.
Alexa has also picked up some extra privacy features and will now allow users to delete their current day's recordings. Simply say “Alexa, delete everything I said today” or “Alexa, delete what I just said” after a command to control erasing your voice command history. Unfortunately you won't be able to do much past that (like deleting everything you've said in the past month) but it's a step in the right direction.
At just $89, the Echo Show 5 seems like a pretty good device to expand your smart home. It ships on June 26th.
Buy it now: Amazon
