How To Use An Amazon Fire TV Cube For Two-Way Video Calling
The Fire TV Cube is one of Amazon's more capable streaming devices and one of the latest features to be added is two-way video calls. Besides the new video calling support, the Fire TV Cube is an Alexa-enabled device, allowing users to get general information as well as answers to questions simply by asking the voice assistant. For those now looking to take advantage of two-way video calls, here's what you need to know.
First released in 2018, the Fire TV Cube can connect to various other smart devices as part of a smart home ecosystem. With Alexa voice commands, it’s possible to ask the Fire TV Cube to dim the lights, check the forecast, and make adjustments to a smart thermostat. The second-generation Fire TV Cube was released in October of 2019, joining the many other Amazon Fire TV devices, such as the Fire TV Stick and the Fire TV Recast.
In a blog post, Amazon confirmed two-way video calling is currently only available on second-generation Fire TV Cubes. Calls can take place between the television connected to the Fire TV Cube, and any Alexa-enabled device with a screen, like the Echo Show. A software update is required for two-way video calling, and device owners can expect the update to arrive over the next few weeks. Amazon is offering this new feature in light of the unique 2020 holiday season where many people won’t be able to see loved ones in person, due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Before getting started, users will need some additional hardware to make video calls, including a USB webcam with at least 720p resolution. In addition, a micro USB to USB adapter is also required to connect the Fire TV Cube and webcam. Once connected, a notification should be visible on the the TV screen, confirming the camera can now be used for video. For reference, Amazon states video is always off by default when a call is started, but can be enabled by asking Alexa to switch the video on.
The next step is to use the Alexa app to turn on messaging and calling. To do this, locate the Fire TV Cube under the Devices tab and then enable Communications. The app can also be used to import contacts to make it even easier and quicker to start a video call with friends and family. The import contacts option can be found under the Communication tab. Once here, locate and tap on the person's icon in the upper-right corner followed by the three-dot menu and then select import contacts. Once everything is set up, all that's left to do is ask Alexa to call the other user’s Alexa-enabled device.
Source: Amazon