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| Amazon adds webcam support to the Fire TV Cube |
Amazon today added a new feature that allows Fire TV Cube users to connect to a webcam to make video calls on TV.
The e-commerce giant said: This new feature will be available today, but support for it is limited to the second generation of the Fire TV Cube platform.
Amazon added that with this feature, platform owners can use any device that supports Alexa smart assistant to make two-way video calls, including tablets, smartphones, and other devices such as (Echo Show).
Starting today, Amazon will release a software update to enable video calling in the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. The jobs will take several weeks.
To make the webcam compatible with the new features, Amazon stated that it must support USB connection at least 720p resolution at 30 frames per second. However, it is recommended to use a 1080p webcam with a viewing angle of 60 to 90 degrees. Screen range from 6 to 10 feet. 4K cameras are not recommended.
To make it easier to choose compatible webcams, Amazon has released a number of better options including: Logitch C920, Logitech C922x, Logitech C310, Aukey PC-LM1E, and Wansview 101JD.
Since Fire TV Cube has a micro-USB port, users must have a USB-A to micro-USB adapter.
By default, video calls start without pictures. And when a call comes in, the caller's personal ID is displayed on the TV screen for Alexa to say the name of the caller. You can respond by asking Alexa, "Alexa, the answer."
All of this is aimed at alleviating the rigors of unconventional holidays, as many people may not meet while on vacation, Amazon said. "Forget holding the phone for 30 minutes or just put everyone in one place to see who's on the screen," she said. With Fire TV Cube for video calls, you can chat with friends and family without leaving the sofa. ''