Amazon has launched an updated version of the Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 8 with improved cameras and a smarter Alexa experience. The company has also released the Echo Show 5 Kids, a version of the Echo Show 5 that's specifically designed for kids.

All the new Echo Show devices are already available for pre-order and go on sale next month.

The New Echo Show 8 Keeps the Focus on You on Video Calls

Tom Taylor, SVP of Alexa at Amazon, says in the press release that Echo owners made nearly three times more video calls than usual in 2020. This is why the company is focusing on improving the video calling experience with the Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 8.

The new Echo Show 8 features a 13MP camera with a 110-degree wide field of view. Coupled with the more powerful octa-core processor, the new camera can automatically pan and zoom while you are on a video call to keep you in the center of the frame.

The video calling experience is further enhanced by the dual stereo speakers that offer a clear and balanced sound. Amazon is also bringing visual and audio reactions and AR effects to video calls on the new Echo Show 8.

Echo Show 8

In all other aspects, including the design, the new Echo Show 8 is similar to the model that Amazon debuted in 2019.

As for the new Echo Show 5, it features an "upgraded HD camera with double the pixels." While the added pixels will help improve the video call quality, the smaller Echo lacks all the other video calling features found on the new Echo Show 8. It also continues to feature a 5.5-inch HD display.

For privacy-conscious folks, the new Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 8 feature a physical privacy shutter to block the camera manually.

The new Echo Show 5 Kids is designed for kids featuring a "new and fun design." You can customize its home screen with clock themes that will appeal to kids. Your children can use the Echo Show 5 Kids to make video calls to pre-approved contacts, ask Alexa for help with their homework, and more.

Related: How to Play YouTube Videos on Your Amazon Echo

Amazon is offering a 2-year worry-free guarantee for the Echo Show 5 Kids. This means if your child manages to break the Echo Show within two years from the date of purchase, Amazon will replace it for free.

Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids

Alexa Gets Smarter and Proactive

Amazon will allow you to access the camera on the Echo Show using the Alexa app on your phone, thereby turning the device into a security camera of sorts. Alexa is also getting smarter and proactive and will now be able to trigger a Routine if it detects a person walking into a room.

The virtual assistant will soon gain the ability to trigger certain actions after recognizing specified sounds, like a baby crying or a dog barking, etc.

Related: What Is Alexa and What Does Alexa Do?

New Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 8 Price and Availability

The new Echo Show 5 will be available in Charcoal, Glacier White, and Deep Sea Blue colors for $84.99. The bigger Echo Show 8 will retail for $129.99 in Charcoal and Glacier White colors.

The Echo Show 5 Kids will only be available in Chameleon color and cost $94.99. All the new Echo Show units use recycled fabric in a bid to reduce their environmental footprint.

All three devices are available for pre-order and start shipping in June.