Amazon announces new improved Echo Frames smart glasses plus a fashionable Carrera eyewear option

Unveiled today, as part of Amazon's Fall Devices & Services event, were the new Amazon Echo Frames in addition to all the new Echo device improvements. The next-generation smart glasses come equipped with Alexa, and combine fashion, extended battery life, and improved audio.

They start at $269.99 and come in five new styles with prescription-ready, sunglass, or blue light lens options. The new Echo Frames are lightweight and have 15% slimmer temples for comfortable all-day wear. They also have improved battery life, delivering up to six hours of continuous media playback or talk time on a full charge.

The audio architecture has been redesigned with new custom-built speakers that deliver three-times more bass than the previous generation and more accurately direct sound to your ears, while minimizing outside noise. Echo Frames also have upgraded speech processing technology that improves Alexa's performance, which Amazon claims is up to ten-times better recognition in loud or windy conditions than the previous generation.

For those that are more fashion-forward, Amazon has also partnered with Carrera Eyewear to create a new line of smart eyewear that combines the smarts of Alexa with top fashion frame styles. The collection includes two new frame designs—Carrera Cruiser and Carrera Sprinter—which blend the iconic Carrera style with the power of Alexa. Carrera Smart Glasses allow you to stay connected and get help with daily tasks with technology that blends seamlessly into your lifestyle when not in use.

As part of its commitment to customer privacy, Amazon states that Echo devices include multiple layers of privacy controls. Echo devices have built-in camera shutters, a microphone on/off button, and the microphones on Echo Frames and Carrera Smart Glasses can be muted with the double-press of a button. Users have full control over their voice recordings and can view, hear, or delete them at any time.

Additionally, aside from the usual Alexa features included in all Echo devices, both smart glasses will come with premium features such as being able to seamlessly connect and switch between two audio sources, starting a playlist with the press of a button, notification filtering, and an "Alexa, find my smart glasses" features should you misplace your eyewear. The new Echo Frames will start at $269.99, while the new Carrera Smart Glasses will cost $389.99. You can sign up to be notified when you can pre-order them on the Amazon product details page.