AMAZON

Devices of line Echo get motion detection feature using ultrasound

A new motion-sensing feature is available for fourth-generation Amazon Echo Dot devices. The tool uses ultrasound to detect motion in the room, activating other connected devices, such as turning on your smart lights.

Some Amazon Echo devices can now detect moving objects with a new motion detection feature. The gadget recognises movement through ultrasound technology, which can sense people in your home and then trigger other connected devices to switch on or off, such as smart lights or fans.

Amazon teased this motion-sensing tool at its fall hardware event in September.  As The Verge explains, the Echo or Echo Dot will emit an inaudible ultrasound wave, reflecting off objects it detects nearby. The device's microphone then captures these reflected waves, enabling it to spot movement in the room.

The feature is available on fourth-generation Echo and Echo Dot devices, where you can enable the tool through the Alexa app. Alternatively, you can use the motion detection tool to trigger Alexa routines, such as playing music or turning on the TV when the gadget detects movement.

The Echo Dot is not the only Amazon gadget to have a movement sensing feature; Echo Show devices can also detect motion. However, this tool uses a camera rather than ultrasound to sense people or objects. Also, Google Nest smart displays and mini speakers have motion detection using similar ultrasound technology.

Polly Allcock