The Amazon Fire TV Cube is here! Amazon has promised a unique blend of connecting traditional cable TV with Alexa voice control. While the company has dipped its toes in this water with the Fire TV Stick, the TV Cube is a pretty big leap. What is everyone saying about the newest cable box? Is it worth all the hype? Does it really revolutionize the living room? Or is it just a goofy gadget with niche appeal? Well, we’ve got a review roundup for you right here! Let’s talk TV!
What the Fire TV Cube Does
The Fire TV Cube is an Alexa-powered entertainment device designed to let you use voice commands to control your TV hands-free. Basic functions, like turning the TV and cable receiver on and changing channels is all handled through voice commands. This is actually quite awesome: walking in from a long day and getting your entertainment with just your voice feels really luxurious. While you’ll still have to use a remote control for more advanced functions, this is a huge step in the right direction!
Amazon has been leading the pack in smart home technology since they first launched the Amazon Echo. Their Alexa personal assistant has grown more responsive and intelligent with each update. New technology like the TV Cube are natural extensions of the ongoing smart home revolution. The TV Cube has excellent voice recognition, hearing users over speakers even in loud rooms. The Cube then mutes the sound until the command is completed.
The best part, though, is that setting the device up is easy and simple. While some smart home technology has quite a learning curve, this one can be set up in a few minutes. Once you’re hooked up, it’s easy to start channel surfing with just your voice.
What’s the Catch?
The Fire TV Cube isn’t perfect, though. Some devices are simply beyond the technology and can’t be voice controlled. For instance, game consoles and Roku devices aren’t able to be controlled via voice. In order to use those devices, you’ll need their controllers on hand. This means the TV Cube doesn’t live up to its promise of removing all remotes from your coffee table.
Another odd design choice, the remote that comes with the TV Cube has no volume or mute buttons. This is underscored by the remote’s inability to control any other devices. It begs the question of what, exactly, the device has a remote for, given that it’s entirely voice controlled on its own.
Is it Worth it?
For more complicated set-ups, Amazon’s newest device isn’t a replacement for a standard universal remote. However, for simpler home entertainment set-ups, it’s a great alternative. If you’ve already invested in a smart home suite with Alexa, the TV Cube is a no-brainer.
If you’re still on the fence about Alexa, the TV Cube might just be what pushes you to check the technology out. Amazon’s new cable box retails for $120, and it’s a solid purchase. If you’re looking to channel surf with voice controls, this is a great buy. However, if voice commands don’t excite you, skip this one.
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