The Echo Spot features all the Alexa-based artificial intelligence smarts and voice control of the Echo, Echo Dot and Echo Plus, but with the addition of a circular screen so Alexa can now show you things.

These things might be news, weather, video calls, Alexa skills and much more. Just as you can tell Alexa now to play a flash news briefing you will now be able to ask Alexa to show the news. Or, just as you ask Alexa to turn off the lights, now she can show your security camera feed. The Echo Spot is small in size, but not in power. It will fit on your desk, kitchen counter, nightstand or side table.

You can pre-order the Echo Spot from today for $199, and it will be available on 26 April. It will also be available from the same date at JB Hi-Fi, Myer and Officeworks.

“Echo Spot combines the popular small design of Echo Dot with the added benefit of a display, and the features you love about Alexa into a stylish and compact device,” said Sylvia Ding, Alexa Australia and New Zealand country manager. “See the weather, watch video news briefings, glance at your alarm clock, make video calls, and more – we think customers in Australia will find lots of places for Echo Spot in their homes.”

The Echo Spot contains second-generation far-field technology with four microphones, acoustic beam-forming technology and enhanced noise cancellation so it can hear you from across the room – even while music is playing. If you have more than one Echo, Alexa responds intelligently from the Echo you’re closest to with Echo Spatial Perception.

Alexa can talk to you and play music on Echo Spot through the built-in 2W speaker. Echo Spot can also directly connect to speakers through Bluetooth or using a 3.5mm stereo cable, enabling you to add Alexa to your home entertainment system. Then, use just your voice to control Amazon Music Unlimited, Spotify, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, and more. Plus, with the multi-room music feature, you can play your favourites throughout your home, with synchronised music across all of your Echo devices.