Amazon’s new alarm clock tracks breathing to choose when to wake users

Amazon has unveiled Echo Time, a bedside alarm clock that tracks breathing and proximity using ultrasound to help decide when to wake its owner.

The $199.99 device is designed to sound its alarm during lighter sleep, which Amazon says can make waking up easier. Users set a wake-up window of 10 to 60 minutes around their scheduled alarm, giving the clock some flexibility to choose the moment. Its Omnisense system combines ultrasound with temperature and presence sensors, without requiring a watch or other wearable.

Echo Time has a rounded body, a 3.2-inch circular touchscreen, and no camera. Sleep sensing must be enabled by the user and can be switched off in the Alexa app. Pressing the microphone mute button also disables the feature.

As the alarm approaches, the screen gradually brightens to mimic sunrise. At night, it reduces blue light and dims to show the time or next alarm. Users can choose alarm tones that start quietly and build in intensity with each snooze, up to four times.

Alexa+ supports spoken requests to set alarms, arrange reminders, play music, and control compatible bedroom devices, including lights and thermostats. The screen offers hundreds of clock faces, ranging from traditional analog designs to sports themes and licensed characters.

A separate Amazon Kids Echo Time adds parent-controlled sleep schedules and bedtime content. It starts at $209.99 and includes a year of Kids+.

The standard model is available in the US from October 28 in Graphite, Glacier White, and Coral Pink, with an optional adjustable stand priced at $39.99. Some features require Alexa+, which is included with a Prime membership.