I have learned that Amazon is working on two new Fire TV models which will both be capable of 4K HDR video at 60 fps. The first new model uses a dongle form factor that hangs off of a permanently attached HDMI cable, similar to the Google Chromecast. It will be a mid-tier model positioned between the existing Fire TV Stick and a new top-tier model. The second new Fire TV is a cube shaped set-top box that will be Amazon’s new flagship model. It has far-field microphones, a built-in speaker, and an LED light bar that give it the same functionality as an Amazon Echo Dot for hands-free Alexa interaction and control. It also has an IR emitter which allows it to control your television and other A/V equipment. Read more ›

Amazon will be releasing a new Fire TV model which falls in between their current 2nd generation Fire TV Stick and 2nd generation Fire TV. This information is based on a benchmark I’ve discovered and other information I’ve acquired. The new model will support 4K UHD playback at 60 fps and high dynamic range (HDR) video, which is superior to all existing Fire TV models, although I expect the new model to be sold alongside both existing Fire TV models. This will be Amazon’s first HDR capable streaming device and is meant to be an entry-level model for 4K HDR streaming, to compete with the Chromecast Ultra. The new device will run a version of Fire OS that is based on Google’s latest Android 7 Nougat operating system, which is a significant upgrade from their current Fire TV lineup that runs Fire OS 5 based on Android 5.1 Lollipop. Read more ›

One of my scripts that regularly crawls various sites, in hopes of finding information about upcoming hardware, found the image you see above sitting on Amazon.com. It appears to be an unreleased home security camera from Amazon, to compete directly with products like the Nest Cam. Surrounding the camera lens appear to be 4 infrared LEDs for night vision. The stand and body style imply the camera is for indoor use only.

The blue light ring around the lens is certainly reminiscent of the Amazon Echo’s light ring, so it’s possible the camera will also serve as an Echo Dot of sorts. The two small openings at the top are very likely microphones and it’s not uncommon for indoor camera’s to have built-in speakers to facilitate intercom-style communication, so all the necessary hardware components could be in place to speak with Amazon’s Alexa using just the camera. Given the success of Alexa, it’s almost guaranteed the voice assistant will play some role in this new product.