Amazon Brings Alexa Assistant to Cars

Amazon.com Inc. is launching Echo Auto, which will allow users to access the company’s Alexa digital assistant in their vehicles.

The small device, which can be plugged into a car’s USB port or 12-volt power outlet, uses Bluetooth to wirelessly connect to a user’s smartphone. The system also can be integrated into a car’s audio system. Eight microphones and noise cancellation technology help the device to better understand voice commands.

Amazon says the system can boot up within seconds after the vehicle is turned on.

Occupants can use voice commands to play music and audiobooks, check news, find the nearest gas station, make calls, set reminders and add items to their Amazon shopping cart. The system also can be integrated with smart home devices to trigger automated routines, such as opening the garage door and turning on lights, when a vehicle approaches the owner’s home.

The device can be used to control third-party apps such as Spotify, and SiriusXM radio. Motorists also can use Echo Auto to access various navigation systems, including Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze.

Amazon initially is limiting sales to pre-selected customers for testing at a discounted rate of $25. The device will retail for $50 when full sales are launched later.