Amazon Echo (2nd Generation)

Amazon designed the next-gen Echo (pictured in Sandstone) to fit in better with your furnishings. The original Amazon Echo speaker was a breakthrough product — it quickly got many of us accustomed to using voice control in the house. But that tall, techy-looking cylinder really stuck out when you placed it in the middle of the living room. Since we've now welcomed Alexa as part of our home, Amazon redesigned this next-generation Echo to blend more neatly into all types of décor. Each compact speaker includes a removable outer "shell" that's splashed in low-key, muted tones. But don't worry, you still get the same Alexa voice assistant treatment and the already iconic "pretty blue light." Order pizza, ask questions, or control smart home devices — all hands-free. Our favorite use for Alexa voice control? Has to be music. If you want the Echo to play some background tunes, just say "Alexa," and tell it what you want to hear. It's easy to select songs and playlists. Tell Alexa to mix and match from Pandora®, ...