Amazon Fire TV’s Alexa Voice Remote is getting a big new update. The company has announced the third generation of its Alexa Voice Remote. The new remote features preset button for quick access to Prime Video, Netflix and Amazon Music. The remote also includes a guide button so you can quickly view a consolidated channel and program listings from live TV apps.
Also Read: Amazon to manufacture electronic devices in India, starting with the Fire TV Stick
Smart TV makers have been increasingly adding these hotkeys for streaming services on their remote. Depending on whom you ask, it is either a convenience or just an unwelcome addition to an otherwise useful remote. The reason that opinion is divided about these hotkeys is that not all of us subscribe to the services that get such special treatment on the remote.
Amazon Alexa Voice Remote (3rd generation) launched in India
Alexa Voice Remote (3rd gen) brings dedicated keys for streaming platforms
Amazon says the third generation Alexa Voice Remote will ship with the latest 3rd-gen Fire TV Stick (review). It is also available for pre-order on Amazon.in. The remote is also compatible with Fire TV Stick (2nd generation), Fire TV Stick 4K and Fire TV Stick Lite. While the new Alexa Voice Remote brings quick access to streaming services, it is still minimal in comparison to the one sold in the US.
In the US, the third generation Alexa Voice Remote is getting new buttons for services including Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney Plus and Hulu apps. These buttons are also brightly coloured making them look funny if you prefer a minimal remote like the one offered earlier or one available with Apple TV. While having quick access to all your favourite content is much appreciated, just adding buttons won’t solve the content fatigue.
In addition to the new Alexa Voice Remote with branded buttons for streaming services, Amazon is also announcing the roll out of the redesigned Fire TV experience. The new interface is being pushed out to all the Fire TV Stick 4K devices. The company notes that support for Fire TV Stick (2nd gen) and Fire TV smart TVs is coming later this year. The new Fire TV Experience was introduced in December with the launch of Fire TV Stick (3rd gen) and the Fire TV Stick Lite.
Amazon Alexa Voice Remote (3rd generation) price in India
The new Alexa Voice Remote will be available for Rs 1,999 in the country. You can also purchase the Fire TV Stick (3rd gen) with the new Alexa Voice Remote for Rs 3,999. It will be available for purchase starting from April 21st, 2021.