Well I say it's always listening but Amazon is quick to tell you that it only listens when the "wake word" is spoken. The "wake word" can be chosen (kind of like the way you can on the new Moto X). Amazon Echo brings the functionality of a personal digital assistant, think Google Now or Cortana, to a desktop bluetooth speaker. Just simply connect the device to your phone via the companion app (available on iOS, Fire OS, Android and desktop) and listen as Echo spits back answers to your questions.
It can also playback music that you have on a playlist and is compatible with Spotify, iTunes and Pandora but that is only via a bluetooth connection. If you want to access your music via your voice, then you can only use Prime Music, Amazon Music, Tunein Radio and iHeartRadio.
Amazon Echo is said to be "fine-tuned to deliver crisp vocals with dynamic bass response." The device has two down firing speakers located inside that produce sound omni-directionally (this means in a 360 degree manner).
Echo will cost $199 and will be discounted, initially, to $99 for Prime members. You have to request an invite in order to get your hands on the device. Just because you request an invite does not mean you will receive one. Watch the four minute long introduction video embedded below.
Note: I find it funny how the "wake word" in the video is Alexa, instead of simply Echo. You know, kind of like that website they also own.
Source: Amazon
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