TechMag
Amazon Fire TV Cube owners can make video calls although one is limited to the second generation model. You will need a supported USB webcam, that is, a model with a resolution of at least 720p, capable of recording at 30 frames per second and supporting UVC. Amazon recommends 1080p webcams with a 60-90-degree field of view for the best quality when you’re 2.5 meters away from your TV. However, 4K models are not recommended.
Suitable webcams include:
- Logitech C922
- Logitech C920
- Logitech C310
- Aukey LM1E
You’ll also need an adapter to convert the Fire TV Cube’s MicroUSB port to a full-size USB port (also called an OTG cable for On-the-go) like the MakerSpot MicroUSB OTG Hub.
Amazon specifies that the supplied Ethernet adapter is not intended for this use. If you are using it, then you will have to unplug it and connect via Wi-Fi. And instead of using an adapter like the MakerSpot above, the CableCreation, or even the StarTech, you can use one with an Ethernet port. and USB.
Connect your webcam to the adapter and plug it into your Fire TV Cube. You will need to place it on top of your TV or find a way to mount it so that it faces you.
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Activate video calls from the Alexa app
Assuming your Fire TV Cube is on and your TV is set to the correct HDMI input, you should see a notification appear on the screen telling you that the device can be used for video calls.
- Now open the Alexa app on your phone
- Tap on Devices below.
- Find your Fire TV Cube in the list, and select it.
- Finally, activate Communications.
At this point, you can also enable Drop In which allows contacts you choose to be able to initiate a video call with you on your Fire TV Cube without you having to answer or accept that call.
If you haven’t synced your contacts in the Alexa app, you’ll need to. For it:
- Tap on the Communications tab, on the person icon
- Then on the three dots in the upper right corner.
- Now tap on Import contacts.
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Control video calls with Alexa
You can initiate a call just like any other Alexa device with a screen.
Say “Alexa, call [Julien]” or “Alexa, call [mom]”.
If the video is off by default, then say “Alexa, video on” to activate the webcam. You can also say “Alexa, video off” at any time as well as “Alexa, hang up / end call”.
To accept an incoming video call (not a Drop-In), just say “Alexa, answer”.
Alexa responds when watching TV
Part of the new update also brings responses from Alexa that don’t interrupt what you’re looking at or the menu if you’re looking for something to watch.
When you ask Alexa a question while playing a video, her answer will appear on the screen.
