As a long-time user and advocate of Amazon Echo devices, I was disheartened to learn that Amazon has decided to discontinue the Echo Dot with Clock. This particular model, with its fabric-covered LED dot matrix display, was my personal favorite due to its unobtrusive design and easy accessibility to time. However, Amazon has chosen to replace it with a more expensive and less visually appealing model without providing a clear explanation for this decision.
Initially, my assumption was that the discontinuation of the Echo Dot with Clock might be due to hidden defects in the product. I had experienced issues with my own device freezing and becoming unresponsive to voice commands, which led me to believe that there may have been underlying problems with the model. However, after receiving a replacement Echo and going through the setup process multiple times, I was able to resolve the issue and get my device working again.
Replacement with Echo Spot
In search of a replacement for the beloved Echo Dot with Clock, I turned to Amazon’s Echo Spot, a spiritual successor with a screen display. Despite the higher price tag of $80, I found the Echo Spot to be inferior for my intended use. The screen, while not overly bright, lacked the visual appeal of the dot matrix display and constantly reminded me of a cheap screen. Additionally, the design of the Echo Spot, with its tilted screen meant for nightstand use, did not suit my tall dresser setup as I do not have nightstands in my bedroom.
My colleague, Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, is currently working on a full review of the Echo Spot and has found it to be a better option compared to my experience. However, she noted that the audio quality of the Echo Spot is not as good as the Echo Dot, with the audio being more directional. Furthermore, the Echo Spot lacks basic functionalities such as setting an alarm with touch, a feature available on other smart displays. While the Echo Spot offers benefits such as music playback controls and the display of time, date, temperature, and weather simultaneously, these features do not outweigh the drawbacks I have encountered with this model.
Final Verdict and Return
Now that I have resolved the issues with my Echo Dot with Clock and it is working perfectly again, I have made the decision to return the Echo Spot and the credit that Amazon provided me for the replacement device. Despite the disappointment of the discontinuation of my favorite Echo model, I am satisfied with the performance and design of the Echo Dot with Clock and will continue to use it in my daily routine.
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