As someone with six Amazon Echo smart speakers in my house, one would think I have a good grasp on what works best. However, my favorite, the Echo Dot with Clock, has been discontinued by Amazon. This decision, while not fully explained by Amazon, has left many customers like me disappointed and confused.
Initially, I thought the discontinuation might be due to hidden defects, as my own Echo Dot with Clock experienced freezing issues. However, after receiving a replacement and successfully hard resetting it, the device started working properly again. Therefore, the real reason behind the discontinuation remains a mystery.
In my search for a replacement, I opted for the Echo Spot, priced at $80. While it boasts a screen in place of the dot-matrix display, I found it lacking in comparison to the Echo Dot with Clock. The screen, while suitable for a dimly lit bedroom, lacks the visual appeal I had grown accustomed to with the Dot. Furthermore, the design of the Spot, with its upward tilt, seems geared towards nightstand use, which does not align with my tall dresser setup.
A Different Perspective
Despite my reservations, my colleague Jennifer Pattison Tuohy holds a differing view on the Echo Spot, finding it more favorable. However, she notes that the audio quality is not as impressive as the Dot and that basic functions like setting alarms are not as convenient on the Spot as on other smart displays. The primary advantages she highlights are music playback controls and the ability to display multiple pieces of information simultaneously.
The Return to the Dot
Since my Echo Dot with Clock started working again after the replacement, I have decided to return the Echo Spot and the credited money back to Amazon. The familiarity and functionality of the Dot with Clock far outweigh the slightly improved features of the Spot, making it the preferred choice for me.
The discontinuation of the Echo Dot with Clock by Amazon has left consumers like me grappling with finding a suitable replacement. While the Echo Spot offers some enhanced features, it falls short in areas that were vital to the appeal of the Dot with Clock. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for companies like Amazon to carefully consider the impact of such decisions on their customers’ overall experience.
Leave a Reply