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Consumers have had access to the Amazon Echo and the Alexa personal assistant since late 2014, and the technology only seems to be growing in popularity with time. It’s become so popular as of late that some consumers are wondering how they can bring this technology with them on the road – and Amazon already has their answer.

The Next Generation of Echo Auto

Amazon’s Echo Auto isn’t exactly new. It has been around since 2020, after all. However, given the convenience of modern GPS apps, the Echo Auto has yet to catch on like its home-based counterpart.

But this doesn’t mean that Amazon is giving up on their journey to bring Alexa into your vehicle. In fact, they’ve recently doubled down by introducing the second-generation Amazon Echo Auto device – and it offers quite a bit more than the original version.

Firstly, it features a much slimmer design than before. It also includes a self-adhesive base, which lets you place the device firmly on your dashboard. Users also have the option of mounting their device horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally.

The Echo Auto is also equipped with five separate microphones that make sure the voice of every passenger in your vehicle is heard – even over a loud radio and other noises. This feature makes it great for work carpools and long drives with the family. However, considering the original Echo Auto featured eight built-in microphones, this could be viewed as a downgrade.

Like the original version, users of the second-generation Echo Auto can use their vehicle’s auxiliary port to power the device. Alternatively, users can connect the device – via Bluetooth and the Alexa app -- on their smartphones.

Drivers can also use their smartphone to connect to Auto Mode via the Alexa app, which provides a highly useful, heads-up display. While Auto Mode isn’t exactly a new addition to the app, the fact that it provides one-touch access to recent played media, personal contacts, and integrated navigational features sets it ahead of most traditional GPS devices.

Some gas stations across the U.S., including Exxon and Mobil stations, can even let Alexa pay for their gas. By giving the command, “Alexa, pay for gas,” customers can effectively pay for their fuel before they’ve even left their vehicle to approach the pump. But the best part of all is the fact that it works with the default payment method that’s already associated with their Amazon account. There are no additional services or accounts needed.

Although an exact release date for the second-generation Echo Auto has yet to be revealed, it is expected to be available in late 2022.

Introducing Amazon Roadside Assistance

Amazon’s Echo Auto isn’t the company’s only foray into mobile voice assistance. They’ve also announced their new Amazon Roadside Assistance service, which calls on Alexa to help you with various roadside issues, including running out of gas or fixing a tire. While she can’t fix the issue for you, she will connect you with the appropriate services needed to solve your problems as quickly and efficiently as possible.