Amazon’s fall event set for September 30: New Echo speakers, Kindles, and more expected

Amazon

Amazon is gearing up for its big fall hardware event on September 30, and the company has already started dropping hints about what’s in store. From smart speakers to Kindles and even a possible new TV operating system, it looks like Amazon is ready to showcase a packed lineup.

This will also be one of the first major events for Panos Panay, who joined Amazon in 2023 after leading Microsoft’s Surface division. Since stepping in, he has already overseen some ambitious launches, including the first color Kindle and the introduction of Alexa Plus, Amazon’s AI-powered assistant.

New Echo devices likely

Amazon’s event invite features the familiar blue Echo ring, which all but confirms new Echo hardware. The standard Echo hasn’t been updated since 2020, so a refresh seems overdue. There are also whispers about an upgrade for the Echo Studio, last refreshed in 2023. If you’re considering buying an Echo speaker, it might be worth waiting a week to see what Amazon unveils.

A color Kindle Scribe could be on the way

One of the teaser images for the event strongly suggests a color Kindle logo, and there’s a cryptic mention of “stroke of a pen.” That has sparked speculation about a color version of the Kindle Scribe — Amazon’s E Ink tablet that works with a stylus. The original Scribe launched in 2022, but a color version would mark a significant upgrade.

Another Kindle in the works?

Rumors are also swirling about a smaller Kindle, possibly called the “Kindle Petit Color.” Leaks suggest it will deliver better colors than last year’s Colorsoft. However, Amazon only recently introduced a cheaper Kindle Colorsoft, so it’s unclear if this will debut at the event.

New TV hardware and software

The invite also features what looks like a TV, sparking speculation about fresh Fire TV hardware. But the bigger news could be Vega OS, a new operating system Amazon has been developing as a potential replacement for Android-based Fire TV. If true, this would be the public’s first real look at Vega OS on TVs.

Alexa Plus updates expected

Amazon may also share updates on Alexa Plus, its next-generation AI assistant designed to rival Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Of course, Amazon’s events are known for the occasional curveball — from quirky accessories to entirely new product categories. With competitors racing ahead in AI and smart devices, September 30 could be Amazon’s chance to make a bold statement.