The Amazon Echo Buds, which launched in 2023, have received a slew of updates that enhance their functionality while maintaining their affordability. As a major player in the earbuds market, Amazon has catered to customers seeking both high-end and budget-friendly options. The Echo Buds, priced at $50, fall squarely into the latter category, making them an attractive choice for those on a budget.
One of the most significant updates is the addition of tap controls. Users can now customize the actions triggered by a tap gesture, allowing them to perform full Alexa actions or multiple actions as part of a routine. The long-press options have also been expanded to include play/pause, next/previous track, volume, voice assistant, and mute, or users can disable the long-press option altogether. This added flexibility makes the Echo Buds more user-friendly and convenient to use.
Another significant update is the ability to change the wake word for hands-free commands. Gone are the days of being bound to the traditional “Alexa” wake word; users can now opt for “Echo” or even disable it altogether. This feature is likely to be a major draw for those who want more control over their earbuds.
To access these new features, users simply need to ensure their Echo Buds have the latest firmware. The process is straightforward: charge the earbuds to at least 30%, update the Alexa app, and then let the update run automatically when the buds are placed in their charging case. Amazon recommends giving the update 30 minutes to complete, but users are unlikely to notice any downtime.
Amazon Echo Buds
The Amazon Echo Buds’ affordability is one of their biggest selling points. Priced at $50, they are a fraction of the cost of many other high-end earbuds on the market. The case is also pocket-friendly, charging via USB-C and easily storable. While users will need to supply their own charging cable, this is a minor inconvenience.
The Echo Buds will undoubtedly face competition from Beats’ upcoming Solo Buds, which will boast a higher price tag of $80. However, for those seeking affordability without sacrificing too much in terms of features, the Echo Buds are an excellent option.
As the earbuds market continues to grow, Amazon’s incremental updates to the Echo Buds demonstrate a commitment to improving their products without breaking the bank. With their customizable tap controls, newfound flexibility with wake words, and affordable price point, the Echo Buds are an excellent choice for those seeking a basic yet functional pair of earbuds.
