Amazon Echo devices always listen for their wake word, but users can mute the microphone entirely using the mic-slash button on top of the device, which triggers a red light when active. Alternatively, users can adjust data retention settings in the Alexa app under Alexa Privacy to choose how long voice recordings and transcripts are kept, including options to delete them by voice command on supported devices.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-18
A troubleshooting guide outlines steps for fixing frequent Amazon Alexa problems, including setting up Voice ID when the assistant misunderstands speech, enabling Brief Mode or a Brief personality style to reduce wordy replies, changing the Wake Word if it activates accidentally, and grouping multiple Alexa devices by room so audio plays from the correct speaker. Each fix is accessed through settings in the Alexa app or by giving Alexa specific voice commands.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-17
Engadget's review describes the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro as a full Android tablet that defaults to Amazon's own apps—Kindle, Luna, Prime Video, Audible and Silk—while still allowing access to Google apps and the Play Store. The home screen includes an Alexa+ chat widget and a Google search widget, and the device reportedly handles video and Dolby Atmos audio well for its size.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-15
Amazon announced new high-end Alexa tablets ranging from $230 to $550, available for preorder and shipping from October 14. The company also revealed it will phase out its lower-cost Fire tablets, shifting focus toward more expensive devices. This move marks a strategic change aimed at increasing profit margins on its hardware offerings.
cnbc.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon announced a new lineup of Alexa tablets, including a 12-inch model featuring a specialized anti-glare Nanomatte display developed with Corning. The flagship Alexa Tablet 12 Pro boasts a 4nm 8-core processor, up to 16GB RAM, and a 280 PPI, 120Hz display, with options for standard or Nanomatte screens. Accessories like a stylus and keyboard are also introduced for enhanced productivity.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon announced that its latest Alexa Tablets will now include full access to the Google Play store, expanding beyond the company's own app ecosystem. The new models, including the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, 11, and 8, will be available in multiple countries starting mid-October. Previously, Amazon tablets only supported the Amazon Appstore, limiting app choices.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-08
Panos Panay, Amazon's SVP of Devices and Alexa, revealed plans for more Alexa-branded hardware and a new design language called 'Neo.' He confirmed that the recently announced Alexa Tablet series marks Amazon's first product explicitly branded with Alexa, hinting at future devices. Panay also mentioned ongoing development of a new interface style, suggesting a broader redesign effort across Amazon's hardware lineup.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon has introduced the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, a new device replacing its Fire tablet line, with starting prices of $499 for the base model and $549 for a premium version. The tablet features a 12-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Atmos speakers, and a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 processor, aiming to compete with the iPad Pro. Amazon emphasizes deep Alexa integration and a focus on delivering a premium experience at an affordable price point.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon has introduced the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, positioning it as the new top-tier device, overtaking the Fire HD 10 in their lineup. The tablet features a 'nanomatte' display designed to mimic paper and a new processor to support Alexa+ AI capabilities. While it remains below premium tablets like iPads and Galaxy Tabs, it marks a notable upgrade over its predecessor.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon has unveiled a new series of Alexa Tablets featuring an aluminum chassis and running on Android 16, with an upgrade to Android 17 planned for early 2027. These devices replace Fire OS with a standard Android experience, allowing users to access the Google Play Store and a wide range of apps, while integrating Amazon’s media and AI functionalities. The tablets also offer features like seamless content syncing across devices and a specialized Kindle mode for reading and battery optimization.
cnet.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon has introduced a new series of Alexa Tablets replacing its Fire lineup, featuring aluminum bodies and official Android 16 OS with access to Google Play. The lineup includes three models: 12 Pro, 11, and 8, priced from $230 to $500, with kids' editions available for the smaller devices. Shipping begins October 14, and Amazon commits to four years of software updates.
wired.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon introduced a new series of Alexa tablets, including the 12 Pro, 11, and 8 models, all running on Android and offering access to the Google Play Store. These devices feature aluminum unibody designs, high-resolution screens, and enhanced performance capabilities, with the 12 Pro model boasting a 12-inch display and advanced hardware. Amazon also announced accessories like a Pro Pen and Pro Keyboard to expand tablet functionality, with prices starting at $499.99.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-10-08