The AmazonBasics Microwave has Alexa built-in

Amazon is continuing its quest to make as many of its own Alexa devices as possible, launching a slew of new gadgets and features at its event in Seattle today. One of the more unusual announcements is the AmazonBasics microwave, with Alexa built in.

A challenge in building this device was getting WiFi inside the microwave and working, Amazon said, but it's managed to figure it out. The team has also integrated Dash replenishment service inside the microwave. If you run low on popcorn, for instance, you can easily order a replenishment. The appliance comes with a "built-in Ask Alexa button" for you to talk to the assistant.

At its event, an Amazon executive said "Alexa, one potato" to the microwave, and it set a timer and turned on. He then said "Alexa, add 30 seconds to the microwave," and the assistant updated the countdown. He also told Alexa to stop the microwave. The device will be shipping later this year.

Of course, this isn't the first microwave with Alexa voice control features, other companies like GE, Whirlpool, Kenmore, LG and Samsung have either made or are working on appliances with Amazon's cooking Skill. But this is the first Echo-branded microwave, meaning it's hardware from Amazon itself and is likely to offer better integration with the company's assistant.

This story is developing, please refresh for updates.

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