Ah, the Echo Button. Remember when it was the talk of the town? This nifty little gadget promises to turn your living room into a game show paradise, complete with buzzers and flashing lights. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Amazon has discontinued the Echo Button, leaving many of us wondering, “What now?”
Don’t despair! If you’re mourning the loss of this once-beloved device, I’ve got good news. This article is your treasure map, leading you to alternatives that are just as fun, if not better. So wipe those tears, put on your adventure hat, and dive into the exciting world of Echo Button alternatives.
Why Did Amazon Discontinue the Echo Button?
So, you’re probably wondering why Amazon gave the Echo Button the boot. It’s a bit of a mystery, but we know they’re no longer developing or selling them. The community had some strong reactions to this news. Over on Reddit, users expressed disappointment, especially those who enjoyed using the Echo Button for games like “Beats the Intro.” Some even integrated Echo Buttons into their daily routines, like playing specific songs throughout the house when pressed. Ah, the good old days!
But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what some Reddit users had to say:
- User Z-55: “Unfortunately, Amazon has discontinued those and is no longer developing them.”
- User dryh2o: “I have one in my bathroom on the wall. It’s not labeled and when pressed by unsuspecting guests, it plays ‘Ready To Form Voltron (Dialog Version)’ loudly through the whole house. So obviously, these things are very useful.”
- User CapitainDevNull: “I am wondering if you could use an IoT button. For a while, I was thinking of installing it in my organization for urgent helpdesk tickets and alerts.”
The Echo Button had its fans, and its discontinuation left a void. But fear not. This article aims to fill that void with some fantastic alternatives.
Echo Button Alternative for Alexa – The New Kids on the Block
So, you’ve mourned the loss of the Echo Button, and now you’re ready to move on. Good for you! Life’s too short to dwell on discontinued gadgets. But what’s next? If you’re an Alexa fan, you’re in luck. Some new kids on the block are eager to take the Echo Button’s place. Let’s break down your options:
Phillips Smart Button
The Phillips Smart Button requires compatibility with the Philips Hue Bridge. It’s easy to use, versatile, and integrates seamlessly with Philips Hue lighting systems.
Good For: Those already invested in the Philips ecosystem.
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FlexFob 4-Button
The FlexFob 4-Button requires a compatible smart hub and Z-Wave technology. It comes with multiple buttons for different actions and has a robust build.
Good For: Those who want a multi-functional button that’s easy to set up.
Aeotec SmartThings Button
The Aeotec SmartThings Button needs a SmartThings Hub and the SmartThings app. It integrates well with the SmartThings ecosystem and even has temperature sensing.
Good For: Users already in the SmartThings ecosystem looking for a compact design.
So, whether you’re looking for a direct Echo Button alternative for Alexa or something more versatile, these new options have covered you. Each smart button has unique requirements and benefits, allowing you to choose the best fit for your needs.
Flic Button – The Universal Soldier
Let’s shift gears a bit. You may not be married to Alexa or in a polygamous relationship with multiple smart home systems. No judgment here! If that’s the case, let me introduce you to the Flic Button, the universal soldier of smart buttons.
The Flic Button is like the James Bond of smart buttons—sleek, versatile, and compatible with just about anything. It works with Bluetooth and has a dedicated app, making it incredibly easy to set up. You can program it to control your lights, play music, or even order pizza. Yes, you heard that right—pizza at the push of a button! This reminds me of the old Amazon Dash buttons – order stuff from Amazon with a button press.
What sets the Flic Button apart is its incredible versatility. According to its official website, it can integrate with over 700 apps and services. That’s right, 700! From Spotify to Slack, it’s got you covered. And here’s the cherry on top: it supports Alexa and HomeKit. So whether you’re an Alexa enthusiast or an Apple fan, the Flic Button covers you.
- Requirements: Bluetooth connectivity and the Flic app.
- Benefits: Highly customizable, long battery life, and works with many smart home devices, including Alexa and HomeKit.
- Good For: Those who want a one-button solution for multiple smart home systems.
The Flic Button is a fantastic option for those wanting a smart button to do it all. Whether you’re an Alexa loyalist or a smart home polygamist, the Flic Button is a versatile choice that won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions: Echo Button Queries, Answered
Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have about Echo Buttons and their alternatives. Trust me, these questions have kept people up at night, or at least during a commercial break.
Do Echo Buttons Still Work?
Yes, they do! Think of them as vintage items now. They’re like your grandma’s old radio—still functional but not getting any software updates.
What Can I Do if My Echo Button Stops Working?
Firstly, don’t panic. Try resetting it, and if that fails, you’ve read about some fantastic alternatives in this article, haven’t you?
Are There Any DIY Alternatives to the Echo Button?
Absolutely! If you’re a tinkerer, the world is your oyster. Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and other microcontrollers can be programmed to act as smart buttons. It’s a fun weekend project if you’re into that sort of thing. This should get you started. I use a Rasberry Pi as a NAS these days.
Can I Use the Flic Button with Alexa?
Yes, you can! The Flic Button is compatible with Alexa, making it a versatile choice if you need more time to break up with your voice assistant.
Are These Alternatives More Expensive Than the Echo Button?
Prices vary, but these alternatives offer more features generally, making them a good value for the money. You can check the prices using the affiliate links provided earlier.
Summary: Echoing the Future of Smart Buttons
So there you have it, folks. The Echo Button may have left the building, but the show must go on. Whether you’re an Alexa loyalist or a smart home polygamist, there’s a button out there with your name on it. From the Phillips Smart Button to the Flic Button, each alternative offers unique features and benefits. So, push that button and embrace the future of smart home technology.
Please comment below if you found this guide helpful or have any more questions. Your feedback is invaluable to us. For more insights into the world of Alexa and smart home devices, check out our Alexa Archives.
We’d love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on these Echo Button alternatives? Have you tried any of them? Share your experiences and questions in the comments section below.