Amazon continues to make waves in the tech realm with Echo Frame smart glasses. This product is part of the company's ongoing effort to integrate its Alexa voice assistant into every device possible. This time, you get to use Alexa's voice controls through the speakers built into the temples.
After the first two mediocre iterations, Amazon seems to have hit the mark with Echo Frames 3rd Generation. Unlike many augmented reality (AR) smart glasses or products with integrated cameras for visual functions, Amazon solely focuses on phone connectivity and audio functions, such as reading text messages.
All this sounds exciting, but the high Echo Frames price tag raises some questions. I'm here to give you the ultimate Echo Smart glasses review. Together with the team of experts at Cybernews, I’ve checked all the user reviews, specs, and ratings to show you the real value of this product.
Echo smart glasses overview
When I decided to do a complete Echo Frames review, I was overwhelmed by the differences in thoughts and opinions. The first thing I’ve noticed is the improvement in design compared to previous generations of these glasses. With the third iteration, Amazon finally created a subtle and stealthy design. Sure, the model is not as stylish as Ray-Ban Metas, but the company finally managed to hit the bull’s eye with the design and make them lighter when compared with the previous generation.
While you can use Echo Frames as sunglasses, I prefer prescription glasses. Amazon offers discounts if you use prescription glass from their partner companies, sometimes up to 25%. I also liked the customization aspect. You can replace the dummy lenses with your prescription lenses without breaking a sweat.
As for functionalities, I wasn't exactly impressed, and that’s mainly due to a lack of visual features. There’s no AR or cameras within the frame, so I figured the rest had to be good to justify the price tag.
| Display: | No display screen |
| Audio: | Enhanced, open-ear audio |
| Dimensions: | Find Your Fit custom option |
| Connectivity: | Bluetooth, Alexa device connectivity |
| Weight: | 37g-46g |
| Phone compatibility: | iPhone 11 or newer (iOS 14.0+), Android 9.0 or higher (for example, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Galaxy S24 Ultra, ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro) |
| Camera: | No integrated camera |
Echo smart glasses: pros and cons
The best way to get a realistic impression of the Echo Frames (3rd Generation) is by breaking its qualities down into pros and cons. For everyday use, I found them to be pretty convenient. They are a perfect option for those who appreciate Alexa's companionship and features being just a click away. But here’s a more in-depth overview of the main advantages and disadvantages:
What are Echo smart glasses?
I’ve heard a fair share of misconceptions about the Echo Frames smart glasses, and I’m here to shed some light. If you were hoping for some fancy visual features, AR, or anything else related to the lenses, I may have to disappoint you. Unlike AR or VR glasses, all the main features of the Amazon Echos are in the frame.
In addition to prescription glasses, they also come in the form of sunglasses. Therefore, Echos can replace your everyday glasses or at least provide another option when you want to use Alexa or get some background music.
The design is somewhat basic yet stylish enough to combine classic eyewear with voice commands. Alexa connectivity is their biggest benefit, as you get to enjoy her assistance anytime, anywhere.
You can connect the glasses to the Alexa app on your device, as long as you have Android 9.0 or higher or iOS 14.0 or higher. Through Bluetooth connectivity, Echo Frames seamlessly connect with your mobile device to stream music or listen to audiobooks.
Integrated open-ear speakers produce relatively crisp sound while allowing you to keep your privacy. There are two buttons you can use for answering calls, using media playback, or listening to messages.
Echo smart glasses features and specifications overview
For the main part of my Echo glasses review, I'll focus on specs and features. As I’ve said before, the lack of camera and AR functions can be tolerated if the expense is reasonable. Given that these glasses have a slightly higher price point, you’ll need all the info you can get to make an informed decision.
Design and build
In terms of design and shape, Alexa glasses offer a remarkable variety of choices for prescription glasses and sunglasses. These include several color and design options, such as gray rectangle, brown cat eye, blue round, and black square. Thanks to the ergonomic and lightweight design, the build is sturdy yet comfy for long hours of use.
Of course, not every pair will fit you perfectly, so you can customize them for a perfect match. Amazon has a great fit selection guide; you can even compare it with your current glasses to ensure the best fit. Moreover, you can specify measurements like the frame width, nose bridge, temple arm length, and lens width before ordering.
Audio quality
Another major improvement of the Echo Frames Gen 3 compared to earlier models is the audio quality. Alexa is directly connected through open-ear speakers, and the assistant feature allows you to connect with other audio-based apps.
While the audio quality is fairly high, it's no match for regular earbuds. That said, Amazon is not to blame for this shortcoming since the open-ear system is not as centralized and requires some adjustment.
Display or visual features
Now, this one is a major concern with both Amazon Echo Frames sunglasses and prescription glasses – there are simply no visual features. You won’t get a display screen like with AR glasses, nor will you get an integrated camera like with Ray-Ban Metas.
So, if there’s something that doesn’t justify the high price tag, it’s the lack of visual features. Therefore, Alexa Frames are mainly intended for those who need a more accessible way of using Amazon’s assistant.
Battery life
The next thing I checked for my review is the Echo Frames’ battery life, and I have to say it’s remarkable. All things considered, most smart glasses have a battery life of around 4 hours. Echo smart glasses push that to 6-8 hours of continuous use at 80% volume. That means you can use the media playback function, have hours of talk time, and still get at least 6 hours.
Amazon also states that with moderate usage without excessive operation of audio functions, you’ll get up to 14 hours of battery life. Most user reviews have confirmed that claim, so you can charge these overnight and never run out of battery during the day.
Connectivity
Another benefit of Echo Frame glasses is their great battery life and convenient connectivity. You only need Bluetooth to connect the glasses with an Alexa app, even on Android 9.0. Therefore, you can use the Alexa app on older devices, unlike Ray-Ban Meta, which requires Android 10.0 or higher.
That said, I have to point out the limited capabilities in terms of apps and phone features. While Alexa will manage everything for you, from text messages to phone calls and music, you can’t directly connect the glasses with specific apps like Spotify.
How much do Echo smart glasses cost?
Here comes the tricky part – the fairly high price of Echo Frames, which start in the premium range. Instead of getting Echo Frames prescription lenses integrated, you’ll receive dummy lenses, which means you need aftermarket lens installation. The sunglasses version also falls into the premium category, which is a very high price for the features offered.
The bottom line is that Echo Frames simply have a very high price tag. However, it’s important to note that pricing can change frequently, so it’s always best to check directly with the provider for the most current prices. For the latest information, be sure to visit Amazon and check the price.
How to use Echo smart glasses
Connecting the Echo Frame smart glasses with your mobile device is as simple as it gets. The same goes for their overall usage, so here’s how you set them up:
- You can download the Alexa app from your device’s native app store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store).
- Plug in the included charging stand and place your glasses into the stand.
- Make sure the lenses are facing up.
- Wait about five seconds for the pulsing light to start.
- If it blinks red, disconnect the glasses and lay them down again.
- If it blinks orange, take them off the stand and put them on.
- Now, use the Alexa app (only for Android 9.0 or higher and iOS 14.0 or higher) and tap on Devices.
- Tap the plus icon and use the Add Devices option to add your glasses.
It’s more or less smooth sailing from there. You can reduce the volume to 80% for optimal battery life and go about your day. You should also note the color of the little LED lamp at the top of the frame. The muted microphone glows red; the white color is your phone’s native assistant, while the blue color indicates Alexa.
Echo smart glasses user experience and reviews
During the research for my Amazon Echo Frames review, I stumbled upon many positive testimonials and a lot of backlash. I’ve compiled the most prominent pros and cons based on reviews from YouTube, Reddit, and Amazon itself.
The first thing I found is that, compared with the previous gen, Amazon Echo Frames 3rd Generation went through a lot of improvement in design and weight. With a weight range of 37-46g, they are as lightweight as any smart glasses.
Another positive aspect is the seamless integration of Alexa, perhaps even the best attempt at AI glasses yet. On the other hand, most users still can’t justify the high price. My personal complaint is the lack of an integrated camera since some competitors include that option for pretty much the same price.
Our methodology
My review of the Alexa Echo Frames is based on user experience and feedback from platforms like Reddit, Trustpilot, Amazon, and others. Through these user reviews, I wanted to give you unbiased takes from real owners of Alexa sunglasses and prescription models.
In addition, I went through ratings and reports to warn you of any potential drawbacks and red flags noted by consumers. With that in mind, these are the main criteria I used to rate Echo Frames:
- Availability and reputation (15%). Checking platforms like Trustpilot and forums helped me get a sense of the overall user ratings. I also wanted to make sure they were easy to order, and Amazon’s service and on-platform reviews helped me make the final verdict.
- Smart features (35%). Considering their very competitive price, my biggest focus while reviewing the Echo Frames was on their smart features. I wanted to see how they rate compared with other smart glasses at the same price point, like the Ray-Ban Metas.
- Smartphone compatibility and connectivity (25%). Compatibility was an important aspect of my review since I wanted to see how optimized these glasses were for various devices. For instance, Android 9.0 or higher compatibility was a nice touch since I’ve rarely seen smart glasses with such widespread Android coverage.
- Use cases and functions (25%). Last but not least, I checked all the functions. These are advertised as Alexa assistant glasses, so I primarily focused on that aspect. But I also wanted to see how they stack up in terms of the quality of the speakers and integration of smartphone apps.
Our final verdict on Echo smart glasses
After going through countless Echo Frames Amazon ratings and user reviews, I finally feel ready to give you my ultimate verdict on whether these are worth your money. It depends on your needs – if you’re looking for a solid design with a sturdy frame for everyday use, Echo Frames check those boxes.
They are also among the best smart glasses with integrated AI assistants. Plus, I have to say I was impressed that you can ask Alexa for their latest recorded location on another device in case you lose them.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a pair of smart glasses with other features, perhaps you should check other options like Ray-Ban Metas for the same price.
FAQ
What devices are compatible with Echo smart glasses?
The Echo Frames 3rd Gen glasses are compatible with both Android and iOS mobile devices. You just need to install the Alexa app on your phone, assuming you’ve got Android 9.0 or higher or iOS 14.0 or higher. Make sure you have the latest version of the Alexa app, click on Devices, and hit the plus sign to add your device.
Do they support AR features?
No, Echo 3rd Gen glasses don’t support any AR features. They don’t have any visual features, such as an integrated camera or any other options related to visuals or the lenses themselves, either. That means you can’t use Alexa for some of the functions that other competitors, like Ray-Ban Metas, offer.
How long does the battery last?
The battery life of Amazon Echo Frame glasses ranges between 6 and 8 hours at 80% volume, even while using media playback and other audio functions like phone calls. On a lower usage rate, they can last up to 14 hours, which is longer than most smart glasses. So, charging them overnight will usually do the trick and allow you to use them all day long.
Are Echo smart glasses waterproof?
As Amazon claims, Echo Frames are resistant to water splashes and sweat, but they are not waterproof. They have not been tested for an IPX4 grade or other waterproof certificates like the Ray-Ban Metas and other smart glasses. According to Amazon, you should not rinse the glasses under running water.
What is included in the box?
When you buy Amazon Echo Gen 3 glasses, you will get glasses with dummy lenses for prescription glasses along with a charging port. However, you will also need a cable to charge the glasses. Since the 5W USB power adapter is not included in the pack, you will need to purchase it separately.
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