Eight microphones with noise cancellation are included. Amazon says you can issue commands from any direction, even while music is playing. Like all of the Echo line you can stream music, turn on lights, set thermostats and control other compatible smart home devices. It is easy to use. Once you plug it in it will show you available Wi-Fi networks. Pick a network and log into your Amazon account and you are ready to go. Speakers include two, 2 inch speaker drivers for stereo audio powered by Dolby. The Bluetooth capabilities are what many are finding as the real selling point of this device. Functioning as a Bluetooth speaker, as well as a sound source, you can pair the Show with your smartphone or tablet and play music through its speaker. You can use it with a separate Bluetooth speaker or headphones and stream audio directly out of the device itself.
Shopping is easier with the Show than with the voice only devices. Alexa adds items directly into your Amazon shopping cart and even places instant orders. The touch screen allows you to swipe through products if you cannot identify the actual product you want. However you won’t be able to check your cart with the Show. You will need a computer to view or edit your cart and/or place your entire order. Amazon continues to add more “skills” to the Alexa ecosystem such as Uber and CNN, and newer apps with more video capabilities are on the way.