Third-Generation Amazon Echo Dot Smart Speaker Leaked In New Images

The Echo Dot is small and affordable, which is also why it’s Amazon’s most popular Alexa smart speaker. Now a new leak has surfaced showing what appears to be the third-generation Echo Dot, and it might be taking some design cues from the Google Home Mini.

Two leaked images of the supposed third-generation Amazon Echo Dot were shared online by French websites Numerama and FrAndroid. From the looks of things, this new version of the the Alexa smart speaker has been given the codename “Donut” and it comes with a major redesign to make it look and feel rounder and softer. The previous version of the Echo Dot had the codenames “Pancake” and “Biscuit.”

The images show that the third-generation Echo Dot still appears to have the same compact design as its predecessors, but its edges are rounder instead of being sharp. It also appears as though the speakers on this version of the Echo Dot are now located on the sides of the device instead of the bottom. The speakers are also covered by what seems to be soft fabric, which is reminiscent of the Google Home Mini, as pointed out by Android Authority. The addition of the soft fabric is also in line with the design of the current full-sized Amazon Echo.

The third and latest version of the Echo Dot still appears to have the same volume, mute and action buttons located on the top. There are also four small holes on top, which are believed to be microphone openings. It’s possible that the device will have a total of five microphones, but it’s difficult to say for certain if the fifth mic is at the top center of the device. The current Echo Dot has seven mics, but Amazon may need less this time around as it has already improved its microphone beaming technology.

The new Amazon Echo Dot might also be slightly bigger than the current version of the device. AFTVNews speculates that it may be 3.5 to 4 inches wide. The slightly bigger size might also indicate that the device will have bigger and better speakers. AFTVNews also said on its report that the new Echo Dot is currently being tested by Amazon employees.

So, when will the new Amazon Echo Dot be available? Amazon typically announces new Echo smart speakers during the month of September, as pointed out by Digital Trends. It’s possible that the new Alexa-powered speaker might be available to purchase around that time or in October.