Your Amazon Echo device is getting a slew of new features. The changes range from a totally redesigned line of Echo speakers to software enhancements that promise to make Alexa on your existing Amazon Echo smarter and more secure.

The tech giant also announced a rotating Echo Show, along with new Echo devices for kids. They’ll all be able to take advantage of Alexa’s new features.

Echo Guard was released as a free home security feature to help detect and alert you to glass breaking and smoke alarm noises. Your Echo will listen for additional sounds, like doors opening when you’re away, and can play sounds like dogs barking to deter intruders. If further attention is needed, Alexa can connect you to a 24/7 Emergency Helpline, which can then request medical, fire or police assistance.

You’ve always had to use wake words like “Alexa,” “Echo,” “Computer” or “Amazon” to activate your smart speaker routines. Now you’ll be able to create routines that are activated by the sounds of snoring, a baby crying or a dog barking. For example, a routine could turn off your TV when the device picks up the sound of snoring. Or you could set up a routine that turns your lights on when your baby starts to cry.

Soon, you’ll be able to call up to eight friends or relatives at the same time with Amazon’s new group-calling feature. It’ll work with audio on Echo speakers and video calls on Echo Shows. To get started, you can say something like “Alexa, call my family.” You’ll be able to create and name groups in the Alexa app.

When you’re listening to music on your Echo speaker and a song comes on that reminds you of a friend, you’ll soon be able to share the song with that person. All you have to say is, “Alexa, share this song with Jill.” After you share the song, the person will be able to listen to it on their own Echo device or the Alexa app.

You’re no longer limited to watching Amazon Prime movies on your Echo Show. If you’ve got a Netflix account, you’ll soon be able to watch Netflix video on your Echo Show as well. To use it, you’ll say something like, “Alexa, search comedy movies on Netflix.”

(SD-Agencies)